Penile Implants- A comprehensive guide

While erectile dysfunction is a common ailment that men face, particularly in their old age, it is still something they don’t want to talk about. In most cases, the first course of treatment for erectile dysfunction is prescription pills. These pills serve as an instant fix. A penile implant can be considered when pills aren’t reliable enough. Penile implants are devices that help men with ED to achieve an erection. The device is placed inside the penis and it is usually recommended when other treatment options do not work.

Penile implants come in two types: inflatable and semi rigid. Each type has  different ways of working and offers its own advantages and disadvantages. Surgery is needed to place penile implants. Before you choose using these devices, you should make sure you know what is involved in the surgery, including possible complications, risks, and follow-up care.

Why are penile implants used?

In most cases, the condition of erectile dysfunction can be treated successfully with medication or by using a vacuum construction device known as a penis pump. Penile implants are usually considered only when other treatments are not suited for the man or if he cannot achieve sufficient erection through other methods for engaging in sexual activity.

Penile implants may also be used for treating severe cases of Peyronie’s disease. It is a condition that causes the inside of the penis to scar, resulting in painful and curved erections.

Penile implants are not suitable for everyone. You might be advised not to use penile implants if:

• You have a situational erectile dysfunction such as relationship conflict or the one that can possibly be reversed.
• You have an infection like a urinary tract infection or a pulmonary infection.
• You have uncontrolled diabetes.

It is worth noting that penile implants only help men achieve an erection, they have no effect on sensation or sexual desire. Also, your penis will not be any larger after you undergo penile implant surgery. Instead, there is a chance that your penis would be a bit shorter than it was.

Risks

Risks associated with the penile implant surgery include:

• Infection: This is a possibility like all surgeries. If you have diabetes or spinal cord injury, your risk of developing an infection is higher
• Issues with penile implants: The designs of modern penile implants are quite reliable. However, the implant might end up malfunctioning in rare cases. Removing, repairing or replacing a problematic implant requires surgery
• Internal adhesion or erosion: The implant can potentially stick to or wear away the skin inside the penis. In rare cases, the implant can even break through the skin. Such risks are commonly associated with infection.

After penile implant surgery, infections usually occur in the first few weeks. They can also occur years after the surgery. Initial infections can cause the scrotum to swell with fever and build-up of pus. Infections in the later stages might cause recurrent or persistent long-term pain.

For treating an infection, it might be necessary to perform surgery for removing the implant. It can be complicated to replace a penile implant and can result in a build-up of scar tissue along with the reduction of the penis length.

Types of Penile Implants

Penile implants have two main types:

• Inflatable implants: This is the most common kind of penile implant used. This inflatable device can be inflated for achieving an erection, while it remains deflated other times. A fluid-filled reservoir is implanted under the wall, a release valve is placed inside the scrotum, while 2 inflatable cylinders are placed inside the penis. To achieve an erection, the fluid needs to be pumped into the cylinders from the reservoir. Once its purpose is done, the fluid is drained back to the reservoir by releasing the valve.
• Semi Rigid rods: This is a positional penile implant that is always firm. This means that the penis cannot be bent towards the body for concealing or away from the body for sexual activity.

When choosing a type of penile implant for yourself, you need to consider your medical history and your personal preference as well. Your doctor may suggest a specific type based on your health condition, age, risk of infection, etc.