Penile Prosthetic Implant

Sometimes even the most promising erectile dysfunction treatments don’t produce results. In some cases, you may not be a good candidate for conventional treatments. If this is the case, prosthetic implants are an effective way to achieve and maintain an erection.

What is a Penile Prosthetic Implant?

A penile prosthetic implant is a medical device surgically implanted into the penis to help men achieve and maintain an erection. This option is typically considered for men who have not had success with other treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED), such as medications, vacuum erection devices, or penile injections. Penile implants can significantly improve the quality of life for men with severe ED by enabling them to engage in sexual activity.

Types of Penile Implants

There are several types of penile implants, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Your urologist can help you decide which type is best suited for your specific condition, lifestyle, and needs.

Inflatable Implants

Inflatable implants are the most popular type of penile prosthesis. They are designed to create a natural-looking and feeling erection. There are two main types of inflatable implants:

• Three-Part Inflatable Implants: This type includes three components: two cylinders that are implanted in the penis, a pump placed in the scrotum, and a fluid reservoir located under the abdominal wall. When an erection is desired, the pump transfers sterile saline from the reservoir into the cylinders, causing them to inflate and the penis to become erect. After sexual activity, pressing a release valve on the pump allows the fluid to return to the reservoir, deflating the penis.
  Pros: Provides a natural and firm erection; fully deflates for a natural flaccid appearance.
  Cons: More complex surgery and potential for mechanical failure.

• Two-Part Inflatable Implants: This type consists of two components: the cylinders implanted in the penis and a combined pump and fluid reservoir placed in the scrotum. When activated, the pump transfers fluid into the cylinders to create an erection. After use, the fluid returns to the combined reservoir.
  Pros: Simpler surgery compared to the three-part system; fewer components mean less risk of mechanical issues.
  Cons: Slightly less firm erection compared to the three-part system; less natural flaccid state.

Semirigid Rods

Semirigid, or malleable, rods are another type of penile implant. They consist of bendable rods that are implanted into the penis. These rods maintain a constant state of rigidity and can be manually adjusted to an erect or flaccid position as needed.

• Pros: Simple design with no mechanical components; lower risk of malfunction; easier and quicker surgery.
• Cons: The penis is always semi-rigid, which can be difficult to conceal under clothing and may cause discomfort or embarrassment.

Is a Penile Prosthetic Implant Right for Me?

Penile implants are typically the best option when your erectile dysfunction doesn’t respond to first-line treatments or when there’s no clear cause. They’re also best for men who have severe conditions like Peyronie’s disease. During a consultation with your urologist, you’ll discuss your medical history and whether you have concerns like infection, diabetes, or heart disease that might impact the safety of your procedure.

It’s important to have realistic expectations from your procedure. Penile implants are permanent and irreversible. They can’t increase your libido or sensation during sexual activity, nor can they increase the size of your penis. Rather, penile implants can help you become and stay erect when you can’t otherwise do it naturally or with the help of other treatment options.

Penile Implant Results and Recovery 

You’ll be given a long-acting pain blocker that will help manage discomfort for the first 48-72 hours. It’s important to rest during this time and take any other medications according to instructions to help manage inflammation and infection. You’ll follow up with your urologist to ensure your surgery was successful. You’ll also discuss the right time to resume physical and sexual activity. You should plan to wait about 4-6 weeks before using your new implant.

Although implants come with substantial downtime and recovery, they’re one of the most effective ways to treat erectile dysfunction with long-term results. They also have one of the highest patient satisfaction rates, making them a great option for boosting your confidence.

Schedule an Appointment in Los Angeles

Your first step in learning more about your options with penile implants is meeting with a board-certified urologist. Contact our Los Angeles, CA office to meet with Dr. Houman by calling (310) 854-7822 or filling out our online form.

An expert in his field

Meet Dr. Houman

Dr. Justin Houman is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Urologist and Men’s Health specialist whose mission is to enhance men’s quality of life by improving their sexual and reproductive health. Dr. Houman’s focus is on making a difference in people’s lives through state-of-the-art, compassionate, and personally tailored care.

       

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