Typically, a variety of ED treatments have been tried prior to consideration of the placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP). These treatments can include lifestyle modification (exercise, weight loss, smoking cessation), medications such as Viagra or Cialis, use of a vacuum erection device (VED), or trial of penile intracorporeal injections. Also, optimization of low testosterone levels can be a consideration to help improve ED and libido.

If a patient fails these treatments or is unsatisfied, an inflatable penile prosthesis is often recommended. Overall, penile implants carry the highest rates of success and satisfaction among ED treatment options. Unlike medications and injections, an IPP works immediately and sustainably without need to wait for medications or injections to take effect. Male confidence is restored, and sexual satisfaction is maximized. An IPP is both cost-effective longterm and undetectable to your partner during the flaccid or rigid state.

There are two types of Penile Implants. A 3-piece inflatable penile prosthesis is the most popular choice. Malleable penile implants are also available. These devices are custom fit to your anatomy in an outpatient surgical procedure that lasts about one hour.

During a normal erection the corpus cavernosa are engorged with blood making the penis rigid. The penile prosthesis replaces the spongy tissues that engorges with blood. This is an excellent choice to improve spontaneity and make sex more enjoyable.

A 3-piece IPP involved 2 fluid-filled cylinders placed lengthwise in the spongy tissues of the penis. Small tubing joins these cylinders to a pump placed inside the scrotum alongside the testes. When the pump is engaged, pressure in the cylinders inflate the penis with fluid to achieve a rigid erection. The inflatable penile implant allows for a natural looking erection with preservation of sensation, ejaculation, and orgasm.

A Malleable or Semi-rigid Penile Implant is the simplest kind of implant made from two easy-to-bend rods often made of silicone. These rods give the man’s penis the firmness needed for sexual penetration. The rods are bent downward when not in use or when urinating. This type of prosthesis is chosen when hand dexterity is limited.

Penile implant surgery is done as an outpatient under general anesthesia. Usually a small incision is made where the penis and scrotum come together. The patient typically goes home the same day. Once discharged, the patient will notice some swelling and bruising that will subside over several weeks. Pain is controlled with oral pain medication.

After 6 weeks the patient will be allowed to use the implant for sexual intercourse. This time period is necessary to allow for complete healing of the performed surgery. As with any type of surgery, there are risks involved so make sure to speak to your physician during initial consultation.

It is important that the urologist who places your IPP has extensive surgical experience, as infection and malfunctions of the device can occur in inexperienced hands. Our surgeons at Gulf Coast Urology individually have over 30 years of experience in the treatment of ED and the placement of penile implants.

We use our experience and judgement to help patients restore sexual function that is the safest and most beneficial to each individual. Please call our office to schedule a consultation, or contact us (use link) for more information.