Penile Prosthesis Implantation: Options, Risks and Follow-Up
A penile prosthesis is a surgically implanted device that can provide rigidity for sexual activity when erectile dysfunction has not responded to, or is unsuitable for, other treatments. It does not increase sexual desire, sensation or penis length, and it does not create a natural erection.
Types of device
- Inflatable prosthesis: cylinders are activated with an implanted pump and fluid system.
- Malleable prosthesis: bendable rods remain firm and are positioned manually.
Choice depends on anatomy, dexterity, previous surgery, infection risk, priorities and the clinician’s assessment. No device is universally best.
Alternatives and assessment
Depending on the cause of erectile dysfunction, alternatives may include lifestyle and medical management, tablets, vacuum devices, urethral treatment or injections. Assessment should cover cardiovascular and metabolic health, medicines, urinary or prostate history, previous pelvic surgery, Peyronie’s disease, hand function and expectations.
Risks and long-term limits
Risks include infection, bleeding, pain, injury to nearby structures, erosion, device migration, mechanical failure, perceived shortening, difficulty operating the device and revision or removal. A prosthesis changes the erectile tissue permanently, and future surgery may be more complex. Outcomes and device life vary; published percentages cannot predict an individual result.
Recovery and follow-up
Wound care, device positioning, activation and return to sexual activity should follow the operating surgeon’s written instructions. Increasing pain, redness, swelling, fever, discharge, urinary difficulty or device exposure needs prompt clinical advice.
Questions for Revitalize
- Who is the named contracted urologist and hospital?
- Why is this device type recommended for me?
- What are the infection-prevention and revision plans?
- What does the itemised quotation include and exclude?
- Who provides urgent and long-term follow-up after I return home?
See Revitalize’s penile prosthesis treatment page and confidential assessment route.
General information only.
