A penile implant is a medical device surgically placed inside the penis to help individuals achieve an erection. These devices have been used since 1973 and represent a significant advancement in the treatment of certain medical conditions. The implant is entirely concealed within the body, providing a discreet solution for those who require it.
The Core Function of Penile Implants
The primary purpose of penile implants is to treat severe erectile dysfunction (ED) when other treatments, such as oral medications or penis pumps, have proven ineffective. This treatment aims to restore functional rigidity sufficient for sexual intercourse. It does not serve a cosmetic purpose or to alter penis size.
Penile Implants and Penis Size: Addressing the Question
Penile implants do not increase the length or girth of the penis. The implant cylinders are custom-sized to fit the individual’s existing penile dimensions, specifically filling the natural erectile tissue, known as the corporal bodies. Surgeons take precise measurements during the procedure to ensure the implant corresponds to the pre-existing penile length. The objective is to restore the length that may have been lost due to underlying conditions like long-standing erectile dysfunction or Peyronie’s disease, rather than to add new length.
Types of Penile Implants
Two main types of penile implants are available: inflatable and malleable (or non-inflatable).
Inflatable Implants
Inflatable implants, the most common type, consist of cylinders placed in the penis, a fluid-filled reservoir, and a pump with a release valve usually located in the scrotum. To achieve an erection, fluid is pumped from the reservoir into the cylinders, and to deflate, the fluid returns to the reservoir.
Malleable Implants
Malleable implants, also known as semirigid rods, are simpler devices that consist of a pair of bendable rods inserted into the penis. These implants keep the penis in a constant semirigid state, which can be manually positioned for sexual activity or concealed against the body.
Both types provide the firmness necessary for intercourse, but they function differently in terms of achieving and maintaining rigidity.
Realistic Outcomes for Penile Dimensions
After penile implant surgery, patients can expect to restore their pre-erectile dysfunction length. However, some individuals might experience a slight reduction in length, often around 0.7 cm or a quarter of an inch, which can be due to factors such as existing scar tissue or the non-engorgement of the glans (head of the penis) with the implant. Conditions like Peyronie’s disease, which causes scarring and can lead to curvature and shortening, or significant atrophy from prolonged erectile dysfunction, may also affect post-surgical length. While some studies suggest a potential for minimal length or girth increase, the primary benefit of a penile implant is the restoration of functional rigidity and the ability to engage in sexual activity. Setting proper expectations before surgery is important for patient satisfaction.