What are penile implants?

Erectile dysfunction is a problem among the men above forty. It is a condition where men cannot have the erection for a prolonged time or a complete satisfactory sexual intercourse. The possible causes for the condition may be smoking, diseases, alcoholism, and low testosterone levels. Certain surgeries that cause nerve damage or slicing of the nerves may also lead to erectile dysfunction. The condition is initially treated with natural measures, oral and injectable medication which if not working out, requires the use of implants.

Penile implants are malleable or inflatable and are implanted in the erection chambers of the penis to treat erectile dysfunction. The use of the pump and the reservoir with saline helps to cause the erection of the penis.

The implants are easy to use and can be simply pumped up for erection. The prosthesis is not noticeable as it is placed inside the body and there is no change in the sex life. The skin’s sensation is maintained, but if the implants are removed, there would be no further natural erections.

What are the types of the surgeries?

The penile implant surgery is performed in two ways. One type of surgery is performed by making an incision in the scrotum, and the other is performed by making an incision in the lower abdomen

The penile implants are of various types as listed below:

• Non-inflatable penile implant: It is suitable for men with limited dexterity. The penis can be erected and deflated depending upon the requirements. The cost of the surgery is much reasonable.
• Two-piece inflatable penile implant: The implant consists of a pump which can cause the erection after being pressed. It is suitable for men who have limited dexterity.
• Three-piece (multi-component) inflatable penile implant:The use of this implant makes the penis more rigid than any other type of implant. The implant causes the penile shaft to flaccid when not in use.

The selection of the implant depends on your unique medical history, attributes, and available devices to achieve the optimum results.

Which individuals are eligible for the surgery?

• Individuals above 20 years with erectile dysfunction due to clear medical cause who are not responding to medications are suitable for the implant surgery.
• Individuals with spinal cord injuries or limited hand strength
• Individuals who are physically and psychologically healthy

How should I prepare for the surgery?

During the visit to the your surgeon, he examines your medical health condition and discusses your expectations and doubts regarding the surgery. A physical examination is performed to identify the presence of erectile dysfunction. The surgery is performed on day care basis and takes an hour to be performed. A small incision of 3-4cm helps in the quick recovery. You can return home on the same day or the next day. You should keep yourself away from alcohol and smoking as the aftercare recovery would be delayed. Medicines that increase the bleeding should be prevented.

What will happen during the surgery?

Your anesthesiologist gives you either general or spinal anesthesia. The surgeon gives you antibiotics to prevent infections. The pubic hair is removed. The incision is made just below the head of the penis or at the base of the penis or in the lower abdomen. Next, the surgeon stretches the spongy tissue in the penis. Implants of appropriate size are placed in the erection chambers of the penis. Sutures are made to close the tissue.

What is the aftercare of the surgery?

Pain and swelling are common after the surgery, which can be controlled by the use of medicines. Recovery takes about two to three weeks of time. You need to keep yourself away from work for two or three days. You can resume sexual activities after a month.

What are the postsurgical considerations?

The surgery has certain risks too which include

• Bleeding
• Scar tissue formation
• Infection
• Tissue breakdown
• Mechanical failure
• Implant exposure