Penile Prosthesis Surgery

Penile prosthesis surgery offers an effective solution for men experiencing erectile dysfunction. The procedure provides safe and long-lasting results.

What is Penile Prosthesis?

Penile prosthesis is a treatment method of surgically placing penile prosthesis to restore sexual function in men who have erectile dysfunction. For this reason, it is also referred to as a penile implant in medical terminology.

Penile prosthesis surgery is considered a last-resort treatment option for achieving an erection. Prostheses implanted into the penile tissue allow men to maintain normal sexual activity.

What Are The Types Of Penile Prosthesis?

Penile prostheses are divided into two main types: bendable and inflatable (two or three piece).

Bendable penile prostheses consist of two pieces that remain permanently firm. Therefore, the penis does not appear flaccid and it does not mimic the natural erection-flaccidity cycle.

Inflatable penile prostheses consist of fluid-filled mechanisms. In two-piece models, there are penile cylinders and a scrotal pump. However, this type of prosthesis does not provide erection fully and cannot adequately mimic the appearance of a flaccid penis.

Three-piece inflatable prostheses are currently the most preferred option, offering results that most closely resemble natural erection and flaccidity. These prostheses consist of penile cylinders, a scrotal pump and a fluid reservoir placed in the abdomen.

By squeezing the pump, fluid is transferred from reservoir to cylinder and penis gets erected. To achieve flaccidity, the fluid is redirected back into the reservoir.

Why Is Penile Implant Surgery Performed?

Penile implant surgery is a treatment option particularly for patients with erectile dysfunction caused by vascular insufficiency or nerve damage who do not respond to medication.

It is frequently used for erection problems that develop after prostate, bladder or rectal cancer. Additionally, this surgical treatment may be necessary for erectile dysfunction resulting from diabetes, Peyronie disease or trauma.

How Is Penile Implant Surgery Performed?

General anesthesia is administered during the surgery and the patient is put to sleep. The urologist makes a small incision in the genital area and inserts the prosthesis into the corpora cavernosa of the penis (two tubes that fill with blood to produce an erection). At this stage, the implant is customized to fit the patient’s anatomy.

In inflatable penile prostheses, the fluid reservoir is placed in the abdomen and the pump is positioned inside the scrotum (sac). The surgeon then closes the incisions with sutures.

Penile prosthesis surgery is usually performed using two different incision techniques. The prosthesis is implanted either through an approximately 10 cm incision at the junction of the penis and scrotum or through a similarly sized incision at the lower part of the pelvic bone.

The surgery is performed under general or regional anesthesia, depending on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s preference.

Penile prosthesis surgery provides a permanent solution for erectile dysfunction in men who do not respond to medication or cannot use other treatment methods.

How Long Does the Penile Prosthesis Surgery Take?

Penile prosthesis surgery typically takes between 45-90 minutes, depending on the technique used and the type of implant. Most patients can be discharged and return home on the same day.

What Are The Risks Of Penile Prosthesis Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, penile prosthesis surgery carries certain risks. Infections, implant-related issues, tissue damage or complications related to the placement of the prosthesis may occur.

Risks of penile prosthesis surgery are listed below:

• Risk of infection
• Risk of bleeding
• Mechanical malfunction (breakdown of prosthesis)
• Erection problems
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Need for additional surgical intervention after prosthesis malfunction

Who Cannot Have Penile Prosthesis?

A penile prosthesis is not recommended for individuals without erectile dysfunction, those with impaired mental health or those who do not have a partner with whom they can maintain regular sexual activity.

Which Department Handles Penile Prosthesis Surgery?

Penile prosthesis surgery is performed by the Urology department, which specializes in urological devices and functional urology. This procedure is usually carried out within the andrology (male reproductive health) unit as more specialized subdiscipline.

Frequently Asked Questions About Penile Prosthesis Surgery

Does Penile Prosthesis Provide Full Erection?

Penile prosthesis surgery provides a permanent solution for men with erectile dysfunction, allowing them to achieve full rigidity and a natural erection-like sexual experience on demand.

Who Can Have Penile Prosthesis?

A penile prosthesis is used for men with erectile dysfunction who do not benefit from other treatments such as medications, injections or vacuum devices.

How Many Cm Is Penile Prosthesis?

The penile prosthesis is measured according to the patient’s existing penile length, selected in a custom size between 10-20 cm and the cylinder length is adapted to the penis’s natural structure.

Can Penile Prosthesis Increase Penis Length?

A penile prosthesis does not increase or enlarge the size of the penis.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Penile Prosthesis?

Modern penile prostheses typically last 15-20 years and have a low risk of mechanical failure. In cases of infection or wear, it can be replaced through revision surgery.

How Long Can Penile Prosthesis Be Used For?

A penile prosthesis can be used for life, with modern devices functioning smoothly for up to 20 years and providing the desired rigidity for sexual activity on demand. Long-term use is possible with regular follow-ups.

Does SSI Cover Penile Prosthesis?

Penile prosthesis surgery is not covered by the Social Security Institution (SSI) or private health insurance.

What Is Single Piece Penile Prosthesis?

A single-piece penile prosthesis is a simple model consisting of a semi-rigid silicone rod implanted in the penis, providing constant mild rigidity and manually adjustable positioning.

Is Penile Implant Surgery Difficult?

Penile implant surgery is a relatively simple procedure taking 45-90 minutes under general or spinal anesthesia, with an infection risk of 2-3% and most patients are discharged the next day.