Penile modeling is a surgical procedure designed to correct the shape of the penis. It aims to address deformities or curvatures that can arise from various conditions. This intervention focuses on restoring a more natural penile form, which can subsequently improve both appearance and function.
What is Penile Modeling?
Penile modeling primarily addresses penile curvature or deformities, most commonly associated with Peyronie’s disease. This condition involves the development of scar tissue, known as plaque, within the tunica albuginea, the fibrous sheath surrounding the erectile tissue. The plaque can cause the penis to bend, indent, or shorten, leading to pain, discomfort, and difficulties with sexual intercourse.
The procedure’s goals include straightening the penis, reducing pain during erections, and improving overall sexual function. Correcting the curvature aims to restore the ability to engage in penetrative sexual activity more comfortably and effectively.
The Surgical Procedure
The penile modeling procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia. A urologist makes a small incision to access the underlying scar tissue causing the curvature. The approach varies, involving either plication or grafting techniques.
Plication involves tightening the longer side of the penis opposite the curvature with sutures. This shortens the healthy side to match the scarred, shorter side, thereby straightening the penis. Grafting techniques are used for more severe curvatures, often exceeding 60 degrees, or when there is significant penile shortening or an hourglass deformity. This involves making an incision in or partially excising the plaque and then covering the defect with a graft material, which can help restore elasticity and length to the affected side.
Recovery and Expectations
Following penile modeling surgery, patients can expect a recovery period. Immediately after surgery, a dressing is applied to the penis to help reduce swelling, which remains for 24 hours to a few days. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common and subside within one to two weeks.
Patients are advised to avoid strenuous physical activities for at least two weeks, and straddle activities for about four weeks. Sexual activity is restricted for six to eight weeks to allow for proper healing and to prevent complications. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and assess the outcome. While significant improvement in curvature is expected, common risks can include temporary numbness, altered sensation, or a slight decrease in penile length, particularly with plication procedures. Recurrence of curvature is also a possibility, though less common with proper surgical technique and post-operative care.