Penile Implants

penile.implantsA penile implant or penile prosthesis is a medical device surgically implanted in the penis. This device is most often used for men who suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) and have failed to receive results using natural or alternative methods such as pills, suppositories, or injections. Penile implants can be separated into two categories: malleable or inflatable.

Penile prosthesis can also be used to correct penile trauma or congenial anomalies. Penile implants is sometimes used to treat cases of Peyronie’s disease. Peyronie’s disease is a condition that causes scarring inside the penis. This leads to bent and painful erections. For Peyronie’s disease, penile implant surgery is considered only in serious cases when other treatments have failed.

Since the penis is obviously a very delicate body part, candidates for penile implants will want to have a highly experienced doctor perform this type of surgery. Our Los Angeles urologists at La Peer are renowned for state of the art urological care as well as personalized and compassionate service. To schedule a consultation, contact us today at 855.360.9119.

MALLEABLE IMPLANTS

Malleable, or bendable, implants are also known as non-hydraulic or semi-rigid implants. This is the simpler type of prosthesis and consists of a pair of malleable rods implanted surgically within the erection chambers of the penis. With this type of implant, the penis needs to be adjusted into the erect position to initiate sexual activity.

INFLATABLE IMPLANTS

Today, most men prefer inflatable implants, or hydraulic implants. Inflatable implants come in two different types: two-piece and three-piece devices. The main differences between the two types are the location and fluid used for inflation.

With the two-piece inflatable penile implant, you and your partner need only pump it at the time of sexual activity. It is completely concealed in the body and naturally flaccid.

The three-piece, or multi-component, penile implant acts and feels more like a natural erection. It expands the girth of the penis and is more firm and fuller than other implants. Although it is similar to the two-piece implant as it is also inside the body with a pump in the scrotum, the three-piece penile implant has a separate reservoir for fluid in the abdomen. The most extensive surgical procedure involves the three-piece prosthesis and will require the services of a very experienced surgeon.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR PENILE IMPLANT SURGERY

Penile implant surgery is usually done at an outpatient surgery center by a urologist with a possible overnight stay in the hospital. To help you prepare for your surgery, your doctor will want to make absolutely sure an implant is the best option by targeting the cause of your erectile dysfunction and excluding any other type of treatment. Your urologist will also want to rule out anything that might cause these complications. At that point, you will discuss what type of implant suits you best.

Your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop taking certain medications, such as over the counter pain relievers, and ask you to start using antibacterial soap to reduce the risk of infection. Ask your doctor when you’ll be able to go home so you can arrange for a ride home in advance if possible. It is important to keep your partner involved in conversations with the doctor for proper care and support.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PENILE IMPLANT SURGERY

Penile implant surgery usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Your doctor may give you medication to make you unconscious during the surgery or medication that blocks pain in the lower part of your body. Before surgery, your doctor will give you IV antibiotics to help prevent infection. A catheter may be used, but it will be removed about 24 hours after surgery.

After the procedure, you will need to take antibiotics, as directed, to prevent infection. Pain medication will be prescribed as well to manage pain and discomfort. If you follow the doctor’s instructions, you can likely resume physical and sexual activity after about six weeks.

PENILE IMPLANT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What types of devices do you use at your office for malleable and inflatable implants?

A: We utilize inflatable penile prosthesis for men who are having problems with ED. There is a two-piece and a three-piece, and we make that determination based on patient length, dexterity, and preference. The most popular models are the AMS700 series and the AMS Ambicore penile implants.

Q: What doctors perform this procedure?

A: Urologists perform a penile implant procedure.

Q: Is this a common procedure at your office?

A: Penile implants are actually more common than you would think.

Q: What is the level of client satisfaction that you observe after the surgery?

A: Both the AMS7000 series and AMS Ambicore have an extremely high satisfaction rate. This procedure can really change someone’s life.

Q: How long is the usual recovery time for your patients?

A: The average recovery time for this procedure is six weeks. If the doctor clears them after six weeks, patients can resume normal sexual activities.

Q: Who is a candidate for penile prosthesis?

A: A man with erectile dysfunction has several options: 1. Take a pill by mouth; 2. Take a pill in urethra; or 3. Receive an injection to the penis. Anyone with ED that has not responded, tolerated, or dislikes oral agents, injections to the penis or intraurethral agents will more on to the next best option, which is a penile prosthesis.

Q: Does insurance cover the procedure?

A: Yes, insurance pays for it. However, we will check with your insurance company beforehand to be certain.

Q: How long can the prosthesis maintain an erection?

A: Basically, the prosthesis stops working when a man no longer wants to be hard anymore. In theory, he could stay hard for hours on end and be the most popular man in town!

CONTACT A UROLOGIST IN BEVERLY HILLS

To schedule your consultation with our Beverly Hills urologists, please call us at 855.360.9119 or book your appointment online. We look forward to improving your situation.

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