Do you have erectile dysfunction? There is no need to be ashamed; this is a common problem in older men.
It is believed that every 1 in 4 men over 60 suffers from ED. Follow this article to determine if you are a suitable candidate for penile implants and all the details you will require to make an informed decision.
What is Penile Prosthesis
Penile prostheses (also called penile implants) are medical devices surgically implanted into the penis to treat erectile dysfunction when other therapies have proven ineffective.
Men who seek sexual intercourse can use this aid to achieve and sustain an erection suitable for sexual interplay.
Penile Implant types?
There are two types of penile prosthesis you can obtain:
- A 3-piece inflatable penile implant (also available in a two-piece)
- Malleable penile implant
Both options are customized to your unique needs and will provide you with an erection anytime you need it. Although surgically placed, they will not affect your sensitivity or ability to ejaculate.
1. inflatable penile implant
Inflatable rods are inserted into the penis and pumped into the scrotum. These rods are filled with a saline solution, and when you squeeze the pump, the solution shoots up to the rods, which causes them to inflate, thus giving you an erection. Deflation is as simple as pressing a button that will also be located in your scrotum.
2. malleable penile implant
Flexible or malleable implants are straightforward; you must straighten your penis to the desired position and bend it back down to achieve a flaccid appearance. Flexible options like the Genesis Malleable Penile Implant are inserted into the shaft of the penis and consist of two adjustable rods.
Inflatable Rods vs. Flexible Implants
The most significant difference between these two products is that the inflatable option provides a more natural erection than flexible rods. The adjustable rods produce a permanent firmness and need to be hidden.
What is the average age for a penile implant?
Age can play an important role when considering getting a penile implant; most often men in their 50s, 60s, or 70s are selected. But remember: age alone shouldn’t be used as the sole indicator for candidacy!
Who is a Good Candidate for Penile Prosthesis?
This procedure is usually reserved for men who have tried alternative options that did not work and the possible candidates include men with the following problems:
- Frequently not being able to have or maintain an erection.
- If Viagra, Cialis, Vardenafil, and Stendra have not worked for you.
- If you’ve tried a penis pump implant and it has not worked.
- Conditions like Peyronie’s disease make other treatments impossible.
You might not qualify if:
- Your erectile dysfunction stems from emotional issues.
- You have no sex drive.
- You have a urinary tract infection.
- You can cure your ED by different methods.
- If there are issues with your penis or scrota skin, like swelling, inflammation, and cuts.
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How Does a Penile Implant Work?
- Implantation: The device is surgically placed inside the penis.
- Inflatable Cylinders: In inflatable implants, two cylinders are inserted into the penis.
- Pump Location: A pump is usually located in the scrotum.
- Reservoir Placement: A fluid reservoir is implanted, often in the abdomen.
- Erection Initiation: To achieve an erection, the patient manually pumps fluid from the reservoir into the cylinders.
- Erection Maintenance: The inflated cylinders create rigidity for sexual intercourse.
- Deflation: After intercourse, the fluid is returned to the reservoir to deflate the prosthesis.
- Malleable Option: Malleable implants consist of bendable rods that always maintain a semi-rigid state.
- Two-Piece Implant: This type combines inflatable cylinders and a scrotal pump, simplifying the design.
- Restores Function: Penile implants provide men with erectile dysfunction the ability to achieve and maintain erections, restoring sexual function and confidence.
How is the procedure done?
- Preparation:
- Shaving the Pubic Area
- Inserting a Catheter
- IV for Antibiotics and Medication
- Anesthesia:
- Application of Anesthetic
- Surgery Begins After You’re Asleep
- Incision:
- Incision Made at Base or Below Head
- May Extend to the Lower Abdominal Area
- Implant Placement:
- Tissue in the Penis Stretched
- Implant Positioned
- Scrotum (For Two-Piece and Three-Piece Implants):
- Placement of Pump in the Scrotum
- Stitching Up:
- Incision Closed and Stitched
- Implant Types:
- Flexible Implant: Two Rods Inserted
- Two-Piece Inflatable: Pump, Reservoir, and Valve in Scrotum
- Three-Piece Inflatable: Reservoir Under Abdomen Wall, Pump in Scrotum
- Procedure Duration:
- Quick Process
- Typically Takes 20-60 Minutes
Read Also: Penis Enlargement Surgery: Is It Worth and Price
Recovery
- Same-Day Discharge:
- In most cases, you can go home the same day after surgery.
- In a few instances, an overnight stay at the hospital may be required.
- Medications:
- You’ll receive prescribed pain medication to manage discomfort.
- Antibiotics will be provided to prevent infection.
- Recovery Guidelines:
- Abstain from sexual intercourse for 4-6 weeks post-surgery.
- Keep your penis pointed upwards towards your belly button to prevent downward curvature.
- Stitches Removal:
- A date will be scheduled for the removal of stitches.
- Resuming Daily Activities:
- Guidance on when you can return to work and exercise will be provided.
- Implant Usage Instructions:
- The surgeon and nurses will instruct you on how to use the implant effectively.
- Daily Exercises:
- Practice inflating and deflating the implant daily.
- These exercises help you get accustomed to the implant and stretch the penile tissue.
Read More: Penis Enlargement Surgery: Is It Worth The Risk and The Price
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What are the Advantages of Penile Prosthesis?
Penile Implants have many advantages and disadvantages, and we will show the most common.
Advantages
Discreet: The implant is surgically placed, so no one will know it’s there. While discomfort will be after the surgery, you can return to normal without complications.
- Convenience: It is the fastest way to achieve an erection if you suffer from ED. You must pump or hold it up (depending on your type), and your erection will last as long as you want.
- It’s easy to use: It’s as easy as squeezing the pump in your scrotum or moving your penis into place. There is no unique technology that you need to worry about.
- Durability: Penile Implants can last up to 10 years.
- Quick Recovery: It is a short procedure and will only take a few weeks to heal. Although you have to wait around six weeks to have intercourse, it only takes 3 to 5 days before you will be ready to go back to work.
Disadvantages
There are a few disadvantages associated with this procedure compared to other less evasive options:
- It is permanent, so that you won’t have a natural erection with the implant. Also, This will be the case if it is removed.
- It is a surgical procedure that will require a recovery period.
- There is a chance of malfunction, especially with the two or 3-piece options.
- With the malleable implant, there is a chance that your erection won’t be as hard.
- The malleable implant causes constant pressure on the penis, injuring certain patients.
- There is a risk of infection. Although this is extremely rare, there is still a slight chance that the surgical site can get infected. They can be treated with antibiotics.
Penile implant surgery cost?
Price will depend on which implant and location is chosen; check with your medical insurance plan as some policies offer co-payment coverage or expect co-pays as part of their coverage agreement. Typically, expect to spend between $16,000-$19,000.
Conclusion
Penile implants should always be your last resort as they are permanent solutions that may never allow a natural erection to return, even after removal. Even so, most men find them very effective.
Surgery entails risks; you should know them before embarking on this path. Finding an excellent surgeon is also key – always research before consulting with anyone.
Implants typically last around ten years, depending on the frequency of use. If nothing else has worked to treat your ED, penile prostheses could provide the solution you’ve been searching for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Penile Implants Work?
Yes, this surgery is very effective, and 80 – 90% of men report positive outcomes.
However, just like most surgeries, there are some possible risks which include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Mechanical failures
- Erosion
Does it Hurt?
The surgery will not be painful as you will be under anesthetic, but you can expect some discomfort or pain for a few days afterward. It should take around a week or two for these symptoms to disappear.
If you find the pain unbearable, there are specific treatments that can help:
- Your doctor can drain any fluid that has built up.
- Pain medication
- Compressive surgical dressings
The duration of your recovery will differ due to multiple factors, and you should always check with your doctor before engaging in intercourse for the first time post-surgery.
Can Women tell if a Man has a Penile Implant?
No, a woman will not tell; the implant is surgically placed. So, anyone would only tell us if they saw the procedure’s scars.
Does Penile Prosthesis add length?
No, it will not add length to your penis. However, it might shorten it due to the implant not reaching the head.
Will Sex be Different?
Once the implant is inflated or moved into place, it will feel similar to a regular erection regarding girth and how hard it gets. The only difference is that the head of the penis will not be stiff.
These implants should not affect how intercourse feels; you can still orgasm and ejaculate.
Can Penile Implants Increase Size?
Accordion Penile implants are generally intended to facilitate and sustain erections. Though they can increase firmness and rigidity, they usually don’t significantly enlarge the penis size.
Does Medicare Cover Penile Implants?
Yes, Medicare covers penile implants for eligible beneficiaries who meet specific plans and circumstances. Since coverage varies based on specific plans and situations, it’s best to contact Medicare or your healthcare provider for more details.
How Long After Penile Implant Surgery Can I Use It?
Recovering from penile implant surgery varies between individuals, though most men can usually start engaging in sexual activity approximately 4-6 weeks post-surgery. Your surgeon will provide guidance as to when you may resume sexual activity safely.
Can You Ejaculate with a Penile Implant?
Yes, ejaculation with a penile implant is possible. Erections provided by the implant enable sexual activity and ejaculation, though its sensation may differ from natural ejaculation. Therefore it’s essential that any concerns regarding its usage be discussed with a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
What Are Penile Implant Size Options?
Penile implants come in various sizes to meet individual anatomical differences. Their sizes will be determined during surgery with the aim of finding one that provides optimal fit, so your surgeon will select an implant based on your unique requirements.
About the author
Binsy brings over 13 years of expertise to the HayatMed Clinic Blog. With a passion for healthcare communication, she has crafted insightful articles that demystify complex medical topics, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their well-being.
Her wealth of experience ensures that each blog post is a reliable source of knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of health and medical advancements.
This article was Medically reviewed by Dr. Halil BOZKURT
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