A penile implant is a medical device that is surgically-inserted inside of a man’s penis to allow him to achieve an erection. Typically, physicians recommend penile implants when all other treatments for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) have failed. ED (also called impotence) occurs when a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
There are many causes of ED. Some of the most common reasons include the weakening of the penile tissue, vascular disease, surgical complications, obesity, and congenital deformity. These devices are also used to help treat ED caused by Peyronie’s disease, which is a scarring of the penile tissue.
Major Types of Penile Implants
There are two major types of penile implants used today: semi-rigid and inflatable. Both types of implants are made of silicone and are custom-fit for the patient.
Semi-rigid (Malleable) Implants
Semi-rigid implants consist of two flexible tubes placed inside the erection chambers of the penis. These tubes are malleable, meaning that they can be easily bent up and adjusted in place for when the patient is ready for sexual intercourse. By far, this is the easiest and least expensive prosthesis to use. However, this device requires the patient to be erect at all times. Many patients also report that it is not the most natural looking and feeling implant.
Inflatable Penile Implants
On the other hand, inflatable implants consist of two cylinders placed within the penis. Both cylinders are connected to a reservoir and a pump. The reservoir is positioned within the abdominal cavity while the pump is placed within the scrotum. To achieve an erection, the patient gently presses on the pump, and the fluid from the reservoir will be delivered towards both of the penile tubes, causing an erection. When the patient is done, the fluid is returned to the reservoir, causing the penis to become flaccid. Because the penis can return to a non-erect state, this is the most natural implant, both in looks and in feel.
Penile Implant Surgery
Penile implant surgery is done as an outpatient procedure unless additional medical observation is necessary. The surgical incision is about an inch long and is located underneath the scrotum, so there are no readily visible surgical scars on the penis. The small size of the incision also allows the patient to recover easier and faster from surgery.
Generally, it takes patients 1-2 weeks for stitches to be removed and takes another 2-4 weeks for the incision to completely heal. Patients should refrain from any sexual activity until they have been cleared by their doctor.
What Does Sex Feel Like With the Implant?
The prosthesis does not affect the patient’s sensations, sexual desires or ability to ejaculate. It also does not increase the size of the penis, although it may help to restore the client’s previous penile length or girth.
Unlike taking medications, the patient no longer has to wait to achieve an erection or to initiate intercourse. Penile Implants are covered by most insurance companies along with Medicaid and Medicare.
If you or someone you know has Erectile Dysfunction and is unhappy with their current erectile treatments, contact us today at 212-541-6239 and schedule your free appointment.
To find out more about penile implants, visit our website at: FifthAvenueUrology.com/Penile-Implants/