Penile Implant

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For some men, erectile dysfunction does not improve with medicines or other treatments. It can feel like there are no options left.

A penile implant is one of them. It is a long-term solution for men who have tried other treatments, or cannot use them. It is considered after a proper evaluation, and only when the benefits and limits are clearly understood.

Service Details

Penile implant meaning is simple. It is a medical device placed inside the penis during surgery to allow an erection when the body cannot produce one naturally.

 

It does not increase desire, and it does not change sensation or the ability to reach orgasm. It only helps with the erection itself.

What is penile implant surgery? It is a procedure in which the device is placed inside the two erection chambers of the penis, usually through a small incision. The incision is made in a place that keeps the implant hidden.

 

Because the device replaces the natural erection mechanism, the surgery is permanent. That is why other options are considered first.

The way it works depends on the type.

 

Some implants are bendable rods. The penis is positioned upward for sex and downward otherwise.

 

Others are inflatable. A small pump, placed in the scrotum, moves fluid from a reservoir into the cylinders inside the penis. This creates an erection. Pressing a release returns the fluid, and the penis becomes soft again.

 

Both are hidden under the skin and are not usually noticeable.

Semi-rigid (malleable) implants. Two bendable rods. They are mechanically simple, with fewer parts that can fail. The penis stays firm at all times, but can be bent down.

 

Inflatable implants. These have cylinders, a pump, and in the three-piece version a fluid reservoir. They give an erection that feels more natural, and a softer state when not in use. They have more parts.

 

Which one suits you depends on your health, hand function, anatomy, lifestyle, and preferences. This is decided together, after examination.

A penile implant may be discussed for men with:

  • erectile dysfunction that has not responded to other treatment
  • erection problems after prostate or pelvic surgery
  • Peyronie’s disease with erectile dysfunction
  • long-standing diabetes or vascular disease affecting erections

Before this, medicines, injections, and vacuum devices are usually tried, and underlying causes like hormones are looked at too.

FAQ's

There is no single answer. Look for a surgeon with specific experience in implant surgery, who explains the options and risks honestly and does not promise results.

Yes, the surgery is not reversible, and the device may need replacement over time.

It is not expected to change sensation or the ability to reach orgasm.

It depends on the device, hospital, and other factors. It is discussed after evaluation.

Dr Karthikeyan evaluates and guides men with erectile dysfunction at Andromed Clinic, Anna Nagar. Consultations are confidential and personalised.