If you have difficult or painful erections because of penile curvature, it might be Peyronie’s disease. For many men, it can cause anxiety, stress, and dissatisfaction. Fortunately, board-certified Los Angeles urologist Dr. Justin Houman can help you explore your treatment options and find relief.

What is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease is a condition where fibrous scar tissue develops on the penis and causes difficulty achieving erection or curved, painful erections. Although having a slightly curved erection is normal, Peyronie’s disease causes a significant bend coupled with pain and even shortening of the penis. These factors can make it difficult to do sexual activities – it can also be a cause of erectile dysfunction.

It can have many different causes – it’s most often thought that Peyronie’s disease is caused by injury or damage to the penis. However, it can also develop with no discernable cause. Researchers are still determining what exactly causes Peyronie’s disease, but it’s thought that some risk factors play a role – age, genetics, other connective tissue disorders, smoking, certain types of prostate surgery, and many others might be linked.

What are the Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s can develop gradually, or you may suddenly notice symptoms. These can include:

  • Palpable scar tissue (called plaque) under the skin of the penis
  • Penile deformities like indentations or narrowing
  • Shortening of the penis
  • A significant bend
  • Problems becoming erect or maintaining an erection
  • Pain

Peyronie’s Disease Outlook

Peyronie’s disease is treatable with the help of your board-certified urologist. However, achieving relief requires patience and dedicated therapy. It’s important to have a strong support network, so your urologist can recommend a mental health professional or conversations to have with your partner. These can help you cope with anxieties and difficulties so you can feel more confident in your treatment plan, outlook, and results.

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What Are My Treatment Options?

Treatment for Peyronie’s disease in Los Angeles is most effective when done early. Various options are available, including oral medications, traction therapy, and surgery (in severe cases). Depending on your needs, you may benefit from a combination approach under the guidance of your urologist.

XIAFLEX® is one of the most promising options for the treatment of Peyronie’s disease. It’s a prescription medication made with enzymes designed to break down the buildup of scar tissue (collagen). It’s injected into the scar tissue nodule in the penis during an office appointment. Then, you’ll undergo a combination therapy of in-office and at-home stretching and bending to help straighten the area. It works best during the early phases of Peyronie’s disease and usually requires a few treatment cycles.

Do Vacuum Erection Devices Work for Peyronie’s Disease?

Vacuum pumps can be used to treat Peyronie’s disease by stretching the penis and helping to straighten it. The vacuum created by the pump draws blood into the penis, which helps to stretch the tissue and straighten the curvature. This stretching can help reduce the severity of the curvature and improve the appearance of the penis.

Vacuum pumps are generally safe to use, but there are some potential risks. The most common side effect is bruising or pain at the base of the penis. This is usually temporary and should resolve within a few days. It’s also important to use the pump as directed and to not use it for more than 30 minutes at a time.

What are stretching exercises for Peyronie’s Disease?

The most common exercise for Peyronie’s Disease is stretching. Stretching helps to increase the flexibility of the penis, which can help to reduce the curvature and improve the cosmetic appearance. The stretching exercises are done numerous times daily to not only preserve length but also correct the angulation and curvature. These stretching exercises, in combination with Xiaflex, can help correct the curvature associated with Peyronie’s Disease.

FAQ: Peyronie’s Disease

What Causes Peyronie’s Disease?
The exact cause of Peyronie’s Disease is unknown, but it is believed to result from trauma to the penis, such as bending or hitting, which causes internal bleeding and scar tissue formation. Genetic factors and autoimmune conditions may also play a role.

How is Peyronie’s Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and medical history review. Your doctor may also use ultrasound or other imaging techniques to assess the extent of scar tissue and the degree of curvature.

What Treatment Options are Available for Peyronie’s Disease?
Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and may include:

  • Medications: Oral or injectable medications to reduce pain and plaque formation.
  • Shockwave Therapy: Using sound waves to break up scar tissue.
  • Penile Traction Therapy: Devices to stretch and straighten the penis.
  • Surgery: Procedures to remove scar tissue, straighten the penis, or implant a penile prosthesis in severe cases.

Is Peyronie’s Disease Curable?
While Peyronie’s Disease can be managed effectively, there is currently no cure. Treatment aims to reduce pain, correct curvature, and restore sexual function. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

When Should I See a Doctor for Peyronie’s Disease?
If you notice any signs of curvature, pain, or lumps in your penis, or if you experience difficulty with erections, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.

Schedule an Appointment

The best way to learn more about your options for Peyronie’s disease is by meeting with a board-certified urologist. To get started, contact our Los Angeles office to meet with Dr. Houman by calling (310) 854-9898 or filling out our online form.

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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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