Understanding Penile Implant

If medications and other treatments haven’t worked for your erectile dysfunction, a penile implant might be the solution you’ve been searching for. This surgical option may sound intimidating at first, but it’s a safe, long-term treatment that helps men regain control over their sexual function and confidence. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know what a penile implant is, who it’s for, the different types available, how the procedure works, the benefits you can expect, and the possible risks to keep in mind. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or supporting a loved one, this guide is here to offer clear, comforting, and medically accurate insights every step of the way.

What is a penile implant?

A penile implant is a medical prosthetic device (artificial replacement for a missing body part) surgically placed in the body to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) when other treatments have failed.

It is also called a penile prosthesis surgical procedure. To break it down penile refers to the penis, prosthesis refers to an artificial replacement for missing body parts and together its a surgical procedure.

Erectile Dysfunction [1]  is the difficulty or inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection (erection of the penis), which is required for sexual activity.

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Though erectile dysfunction can be treated but penile implant is the lasting solution for men who haven’t had success with other erectile dysfunction treatments.

Why penile implant considered?

For men with erectile dysfunction, penile prostheses offer a long-term solution when medications and other non-invasive treatments like lifestyle changes, oral medications, and vacuum erection devices are ineffective.

Penile implants are considered to be the best option for patients who have tried all these non-invasive medications for erectile dysfunction but have failed. Penile implant surgery is generally considered a permanent solution for erectile dysfunction (ED).

Note- Penile implants help men achieve an erection, but they don’t boost sexual desire or sensation. They also won’t increase penis size your erection will typically be the same size as it was before surgery, and in some cases, it may appear slightly shorter.

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Based on our clinical data at Allo Health, out of 2.5 lakh patients, 8% of patients came with erectile dysfunction and were recommended Penile Implant Surgery. Among these patients, 73% had previously tried at least 3 different ED treatments without success before considering surgical options.

Patient Poll: Understanding Your ED Journey

Which stage of ED treatment are you currently at?

• Just starting with lifestyle changes
• Trying oral medications (pills)
• Exploring injection therapy
• Considering surgical options
• Already had treatment, but looking for alternatives

What’s your biggest concern about penile implant surgery?

• Pain and recovery time
• How will it feel during intimacy
• Cost and insurance coverage
• Partner’s reaction
• Long-term complications

Types of penile implants 

There are two main penile implants available.

1. Inflatable Penile Implant or Inflatable Penile Prosthesis

Inflatable implants are a type of device that helps men with erectile problems. Think about a bike tire that you can inflate and deflate when you need to. Similarly inflating helps to make the penis firm and strong when you want an erection and soft again when you’re done.

Also called a Three-piece inflatable since it has 3 parts:

• A reservoir: This is a small, water-filled pouch placed under your stomach. It holds the fluid that will help your penis to get hard/erect. The fluid is salt water or is saline solution.
• A pump and valve: This is placed inside the scrotum (the pouch below your penis which contains the testes). The pump pushes the fluid from the reservoir into the penis.
• Two cylinders inside the penis: These are like small tubes inside the penis that fill up with fluid, making it stiff, just like a bike tire gets hard when air goes in.

How it works:

• To get an erection:-  You press the pump inside your scrotum. This sends salt water from the reservoir into the cylinders inside your penis, just like inflating a bike tire. When the cylinders are full of fluid, the penis becomes firm and ready for sex.
• To deflate (soften): After you’re done, there’s a small valve inside your scrotum that you press to let the fluid flow back into the reservoir. This is just like letting the air out of a bike tire to make it soft again.

There’s also a simpler version called the two-piece implant. Instead of having separate parts, the pump and reservoir are combined into one piece that’s also placed in the scrotum. It works the same way. 

Both types of implants are filled with salt water right after surgery and stay that way, so you don’t have to worry about filling or changing anything yourself.

1. Semirigid Penile Implant

A semirigid penile implant is always firm, think of it like a flexible but sturdy fishing rod. The rod stays straight, but you can bend it however you need to. So, the penis stays firm, but you can move it away from the body when you want to be intimate, and then bend it back toward the body for comfort or concealment.

Now, a positionable implant is like that same fishing rod, but with a little extra power. It has a series of segments inside it, kind of like the sections of a foldable telescope, each connected by a spring. This makes the implant even more flexible and able to stay in place better, whether you want it pointing up or down. It’s like a rod that stays perfectly angled without sliding or bending too easily, giving you more control over positioning.

So, while the regular semirigid implant is like a fishing rod that you can bend, the positionable version is like a high-quality rod that holds its shape better, giving you more control and confidence.

Anonymous Patient  (Age 34): “I was skeptical about the inflatable implant at first. The pump seemed complicated, but after the first week of practice, it became second nature. My wife and I are happier than we’ve been in years.”

Is the Treatment Worth it?

The success rates for penile prostheses are high, and they offer a permanent solution for erectile dysfunction, though patients should be aware of potential infection rates and the rare risk of prosthesis erosion. These implants typically last around 10-12 years.

It’s important to have the surgery done by someone who does this procedure regularly. Surgeons who perform these implants a lot tend to have fewer problems, like infections, which happen in about 1-3% of cases. On the other side, surgeons who don’t do these often may have higher risks for complications.

So, if you’re considering it, make sure you go to a trusted, experienced specialist to get the best results and minimize any risks.

According to a 2019 study, over 80% of people who underwent surgery and their partners were satisfied with their implants.

Additionally, after 6 weeks, most people did not find any significant difference in their orgasms.

As observed in over 250,000+ patient consultations at Allo Health, we’ve found that patients who undergo penile implant surgery show:

• 91% satisfaction rate at 1-year follow-up
• 78% report improved partner relationships

How the penile implant is placed inside the body

Before Surgery

• Before the surgery, a comprehensive urological exam will be conducted to assess your condition and determine if a penile prosthetic device is the best solution for your erectile dysfunction.
• A comprehensive urological exam is a thorough assessment of the urinary tract and male reproductive organs.
• Before the penile implant procedure, you’ll first have a detailed consultation with your doctor. 
• You will undergo a series of checks, such as your blood pressure, temperature, and pulse, and all the necessary body examinations.
• The doctor will also ensure that you don’t have any active urinary or skin infections, as these can complicate the surgery.
• It’s important to let them know about any medications you’re taking, like blood thinners, aspirin, or herbal supplements, since they can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. 
• You’ll also get clear instructions about fasting before surgery (no food or drink after midnight) and specific preparation guidelines, such as cleaning the area around your groin to reduce infection risks.

Infection Prevention

• To prevent postoperative infection, antibiotic coatings are applied to the penile implant, and the surgical area is carefully sterilized during the surgical procedure.
• Preventing infection in penile implant surgery is one of the major things to handle. The doctors will give you antibiotics just before surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
• A special cleaning solution will be used on your skin to keep things sterile, and the surgical team will wear double gloves during the procedure to maintain a sterile environment. 
• Also, the implant may be coated with an antibiotic to further reduce the chance of infection.

During Surgery

• During the penile prosthesis surgical procedure, the surgeon will insert the implant into the corpora cavernosa, the spongy tissue that typically fills with blood during an erection.
• The procedure itself usually takes 1 to 2 hours and is done under general anesthesia; you’ll be completely asleep and pain-free and will not know what is happening. 
• The surgeon will make a small incision or a cut in your genital area, typically on the underside of the penis. Depending on the type of implant you’re getting, the surgeon will place the device into the spongy tissue (corpora cavernosa) that normally fills with blood during an erection.
• For an inflatable implant, the surgeon will also insert a small pump into the scrotum and a reservoir in your abdomen, which allows you to control the erection manually. 
• The surgeon may make more incisions if necessary to place these parts, but they’re usually quite small. 
• If you’re getting a semi-rigid implant, it’s inserted directly into the penis, with no pump or reservoir involved. After placing the implant, the surgeon will close the cuts with dissolvable stitches and may insert surgical drains to help remove fluid or blood that might accumulate. A bandage is applied to protect the area.

After Surgery

After penile implant surgery, you may have some swelling and discomfort, but with proper care, the prosthetic device should begin to function as intended.

Once the procedure is done, the anesthesiologist will stop administering anesthesia, and you’ll gradually wake up in the recovery room. You might feel groggy and a little disoriented, but this is normal. Your healthcare team will monitor you closely to ensure there are no complications. You may experience some soreness or swelling around your groin and abdomen, which is expected. The medical team will manage your pain with prescribed medication, and you’ll be taught how to take care of yourself post-surgery, including how to handle any discomfort.

Most patients can go home within a few hours after the surgery, but you’ll need someone to drive you since the anesthesia can make you a bit woozy. It’s also recommended to have a friend or family member assist you during the first day or two as you recover at home.

Recovery After Surgery

The recovery period after a penile prosthetic device placement typically takes several weeks, and you’ll be instructed on how to care for your implant to prevent infection and ensure it functions properly.

In the first few days, you’ll likely experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the groin and abdominal area. 

You’ll be prescribed pain medications to help manage this, and you may also be given antibiotics to prevent infection.

You’ll need to avoid activities like lifting heavy objects or engaging in sexual activity for a few weeks while you heal. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on when it’s safe to resume regular activities and how to care for yourself.

Once your surgeon clears you for sexual activity, you’ll be shown how to operate it (for inflatable implants) to achieve an erection. This can be a bit tricky for the first time, but with practice, it’ll become second nature.

Full recovery usually takes a few weeks, but it could take up to 6 weeks for everything to heal completely. Follow-up appointments with your surgeon will be necessary to ensure that the implant is functioning correctly and that you’re healing as expected.

Try This at Home: Pre-Surgery Preparation Checklist

Create your “Implant Readiness Journal” for 2 weeks before surgery:

Daily tracking:

• Pain levels (1-10 scale)
• Current ED treatments tried
• Sleep Quality
• Stress levels
• Questions for your surgeon

Weekly goals:

• Week 1: Research and prepare questions
• Week 2: Arrange post-surgery support system

Essential preparations:

• Stock up on comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
• Prepare ice packs for post-surgery swelling
• Arrange for help with daily tasks for the first week
• Set up a comfortable recovery space at home

How is sex after penile implant surgery?

Once you’ve fully healed from penile implant surgery, you’ll be able to have erections whenever you want.

1. Feeling Pleasure

The implant doesn’t change your ability to feel pleasure. However, some men report that it might feel a bit firmer or different, especially with inflatable implants, since the cylinders inside aren’t like natural tissue. But it still doesn’t stop most men from enjoying sex or having orgasms.

2. When Can You Have Sex

You can start having sex after 4 to 6 weeks once your doctor gives you the green light. Don’t rush it, though; take your time to heal.  

3. Boost in Confidence

Many men find that the penile implant restores their confidence, as they no longer have to worry about erectile dysfunction or performance anxiety during intimacy

4. Complications

Most people adjust well to the implant, but a few may have minor issues, like discomfort with the pump or slight problems with the implant itself. These problems are rare, and most men find that they don’t have long-term issues.

5. Partner’s Experience

Sex after a penile implant can be very satisfying for both you and your partner. Just make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions, give yourself time to heal, and talk openly with your partner about how everything will work after the implant.

Benefits of Penile Implant

Risks and Complications

While penile prosthetic devices are highly effective, some men may experience complications, including prosthesis erosion, infection rates, or implant malfunction.

1. Infection

• Any surgery carries the risk of infection, and penile implant surgery is no exception. Infection can happen right after surgery or even years later.
• If an infection occurs, it may require removal of the implant and treatment with antibiotics. In rare cases, the implant may need to be replaced.

2. Mechanical Problems (Implant Malfunction)

• The implant may stop working after many years. This is more common with inflatable implants, as they have moving parts.
• If the implant malfunctions, it may need to be surgically repaired or replaced. For inflatable implants, this could mean the pump or cylinders stop inflating or deflating correctly.

3. Pain or Discomfort

• Some men experience pain or discomfort after the implant is placed, especially in the scrotum or the area where the cylinders are inserted.
• Most pain is temporary and can be managed with medication, but in some cases, discomfort may persist. Rarely, the implant may shift, causing pressure or pain that needs further adjustment.

4. Implant Erosion or Migration

• Over time, the implant could move out of place or erode into surrounding tissue. This is more likely with infections or mechanical issues.
• If the implant erodes or migrates, it may require surgery to reposition or replace it.

5. Erectile Length or Appearance Changes

• Some men may experience slight shortening of the penis after implantation, or it may not look as natural as they expect, especially with a malleable implant.
• Although penile implants restore erectile function, they don’t usually restore the full pre-surgery size of the penis. Men who are concerned about appearance should discuss this with their surgeon before deciding.

6. Scarring

• Like any surgery, penile implants can leave scars. While surgeons make small incisions, there may still be visible scars, especially if there are complications.
• Scarring is typically not noticeable unless you closely inspect the area. Some men may have a more noticeable scar depending on their anatomy and healing process.

7. Risk of Blood Vessel or Nerve Injury

• During surgery, there’s a small risk of injury to surrounding blood vessels or nerves.
• If nerves are affected, it can result in loss of sensation or issues with blood flow, which may interfere with sexual function. However, this is rare, and skilled surgeons minimize this risk.

8. Psychological Impact

• While many men report an improvement in confidence after the implant, some may feel psychological distress related to the changes in their body or function.
• It’s important to have a good support system and clear communication with your partner about any emotional or psychological concerns. Some counseling before and after surgery can help.

9. Risk of Urinary Complications

• Although rare, there’s a small risk of urinary issues after penile implant surgery, especially with the placement of a reservoir in the abdominal cavity.
• These complications can include problems with urination or infection in the urinary tract. Most issues are resolved with time and proper care.

10. Need for Future Surgery

• Penile implants are not necessarily permanent, and complications like implant failure or infection may require future surgeries to repair or replace the device.
• This is particularly true for inflatable implants, which have mechanical parts that may wear out over time. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon are important.

While penile prosthetic devices are highly effective, some men may experience complications, including prosthesis erosion, infection rates, or implant malfunction.

Managing the Risks

• Preoperative Care: Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully before and after surgery, including managing chronic conditions (like diabetes) and avoiding smoking.
• Postoperative Care: Take prescribed antibiotics, avoid heavy lifting, and adhere to any activity restrictions to help minimize risks like infection and complications.
• Communication: Be sure to have open discussions with your surgeon about any concerns you have regarding the procedure or recovery. Regular follow-up appointments are key to catching any problems early.

To manage risks, it’s crucial to follow pre- and postoperative instructions, including avoiding physical strain and ensuring regular follow-up appointments to detect issues like implant malfunction or infection.

When to seek a medical doctor

You should see your doctor if you experience:

• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain) after the Penile implant operation
• Persistent or severe pain
• Implant malfunctions
• Changes in urination
• Implant erosion or shifting
• Trouble achieving or maintaining an erection
• Unusual discharge or bleeding
• Numbness or loss of sensation
• Excessive swelling or bleeding
• Mental health concerns

You should consult your doctor if you have any mechanical problems with your penile implant, including malfunction of the pump system or cylinders. Always trust your instincts and reach out to your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about anything.

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