Penile Curvature Disease

Peyronie’s Disease (Penile Curvature) can significantly impact your confidence and intimate relationships. This condition can cause physical discomfort and emotional distress, but effective treatments are available. Your board-certified urologist can help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized care plan.

What is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s Disease is a medical condition characterized by curved or bent erections caused by scar tissue (plaque) formation within the penis. This curvature can occur gradually or suddenly and may make sexual activity difficult or painful. While it can affect men of any age, it most commonly develops in middle age and can lead to anxiety, relationship difficulties, and reduced quality of life.

The condition develops when scar tissue forms in the tunica albuginea, the thick membrane that contains the chambers that fill with blood during an erection. This scar tissue prevents normal expansion during erections, causing the characteristic curve or bend. Understanding the cause is crucial for effective treatment.

Peyronie’s Disease can develop due to various factors, including:

• Injury during sexual activity
• Sports or athletic injuries
• Genetic predisposition
• Autoimmune conditions
• Age-related changes
• Previous pelvic surgery
• Certain medications
• Connective tissue disorders

Whether your condition developed suddenly or over time, your urologist can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options. Some cases may resolve on their own, but many require medical intervention for improvement.

What are the Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease?

Common symptoms and complications of Peyronie’s Disease include:

• Noticeable curve or bend in the penis during erections
• Pain during erections or sexual activity
• Hard lumps or bands of scar tissue in the penis
• Shortening or narrowing of the penis
• Difficulty with sexual intercourse
• Erectile dysfunction
• Anxiety and emotional distress
• Impact on intimate relationships

While mild curvature of the penis can be normal, Peyronie’s Disease causes significant bending that may interfere with sexual function and cause emotional distress.

What are My Treatment Options?

Treatment for Peyronie’s Disease begins with a thorough evaluation by your urologist. The approach depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, severity of symptoms, and impact on your quality of life. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

There are several effective treatment options available. Medication options include oral treatments and injectable medications like collagenase (Xiaflex®), which can help break down scar tissue. Some men benefit from vacuum devices or traction therapy, which can help stretch and reshape the affected tissue. Lifestyle modifications and pain management techniques may also be recommended.

Surgery is an option for men with severe curvature or those who haven’t responded to other treatments. Surgical procedures may include:

• Plication (shortening the unaffected side)
• Grafting procedures
• Penile implants
• Plaque excision

Your urologist will help determine which treatment option or combination of treatments is most appropriate for your specific case.

Schedule an Appointment in Los Angeles

To learn more about your treatment options for Peyronie’s Disease, schedule a consultation with Dr. Houman. Contact our office at (310) 854-7822 or complete our online form to begin your journey toward improved sexual health and confidence.

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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