Penile implants: advantages and disadvantages of penile implant surgery (penis prosthesis - penile implant)
- Apr 19
- 4 min read
When we talk about penile implants, what's the first thing that comes to your mind?
A large number of men associate implants with the desire to enlarge the penis. Others imagine that penile implants are used to correct anatomical deformities of the penis. Many feel ashamed to talk about this issue because they know they might be publicly associated with erectile dysfunction problems, and no one wants their intimacy exposed.
The prosthesis actually serves to contribute to penile firmness and solve erectile dysfunction that hasn't responded to conservative therapy with medications, shock waves, or injections.
Still, you shouldn't be ashamed. If you have a problem that can only be solved by implanting a penile prosthesis, know that there are many scientific studies proving the safety and satisfaction after penile implant placement.
Contrary to some doctors' opinions that penile implant surgery is for spoiled patients, there are enormous advantages to this type of treatment.
If you're still in doubt, look at the advantages and disadvantages of penile implant placement, and consider the possibility of regaining a very important part of your life.
However, if this topic still makes you uncomfortable, professional help from a certified therapist can clarify doubts and lead you to a safe decision.
Where do I start?
Before penile prosthesis implantation, a urologist-andrologist must perform a detailed clinical evaluation to rule out non-surgical treatments for impotence, such as medications or regenerative protocols (LSWT+PRP+HA+VEP).
A penile prosthesis is implanted in men who have lost erectile function when drug therapy has failed, is not recommended due to potential life-threatening risks, or when regenerative treatment is deemed ineffective. If there is any doubt about whether a prosthesis is necessary, a vasoactive injection into the penis with Doppler ultrasound of the penile blood vessels will definitively confirm whether prosthesis implantation is the only path to a healthy sex life.
It is crucial to conduct a thorough clinical assessment to determine if a penile prosthesis is even needed. During this evaluation, the appropriate type of prosthesis is selected based on the man’s manual dexterity and penile shape.
Do not miss the opportunity to ask your doctor about any uncertainties regarding the surgical procedure, pre- and post-operative periods. If your condition has led to penile shortening, reconstruction of penile shape and size must precede prosthesis implantation. This sequence of surgical procedures directly enhances post-operative satisfaction.
Advantages of a Penile Implant Surgery
After medical evaluation, if you are diagnosed with a condition requiring a penile prosthesis, what’s next?
Before you start worrying, know that this implant procedure provides a permanent improvement in your sexual quality of life. It restores confidence essential for happiness and self-esteem, guarantees lifelong firmness, and ensures a healthy sex life.
The penile implant is responsible for restoring your penis’s health, providing full strength when needed, and guaranteeing quality and safety in every sexual encounter.
Restored Confidence
Men with long-term erectile dysfunction often develop psychological issues that directly affect their quality of life. Lack of confidence due to the fear of sexual failure can further weaken already compromised erections. The prosthesis gives you the power to surprise your partner with firm erections on demand.
Return to a Healthy Sex Life
There is no age limit for an active sex life. Many men with erectile dysfunction, even older ones, give up this vital aspect due to insecurity. A penile prosthesis can fully restore your sexual satisfaction with your partner.
Disadvantages of a Penile Prosthesis
The implantation procedure itself is extremely safe when performed by a trained urologist-andrologist.
However, improper implantation by an inexperienced surgeon can lead to unnecessary complications: penile shortening, loss of erotic sensation, aesthetic deformity, chronic pain, or infection. The most severe complication is tissue necrosis and subsequent loss of the glans.
Traditional health insurance may not cover all costs of penile prosthesis surgery, making financial considerations a barrier for some patients. To prepare for potential expenses, consult a urologist-andrologist specialized in penile implants. Proper planning can help you achieve your goals in a reasonable timeframe.
Pre-Surgical Considerations
Are you a smoker? Do you have high blood sugar or hypertension?
These are basic questions your doctor will ask before implantation. Diabetes, hypertension, and smoking significantly increase surgical risks, including for penile prosthesis procedures.
Why quit smoking?
Nicotine causes severe blood vessel constriction, particularly in peripheral tissues like the penis. Stop smoking at least two weeks before and four weeks after surgery. Nicotine patches and gum also reduce blood flow to healing tissues.
Special techniques (or "tricks," as we call them) can minimize complications even in patients with diabetes and high blood pressure.
Revision Surgery for Failed Implants
If you’ve had an unsuccessful penile prosthesis surgery—resulting in curvature, shortening, or infection requiring removal—we can help.
Our practice frequently treats patients dissatisfied with poorly implanted prostheses. In such cases, a revision surgery for penile lengthening and curvature correction is performed before a new prosthesis is implanted.
Take the Next Step
Now that you know the benefits of a penile prosthesis far outweigh the drawbacks, it’s time to assess your condition. If you’ve struggled with erectile dysfunction, fill out the form below to start a conversation about restoring your satisfaction.
Dr. Nikola Stanojević ensures safe correction of all genital issues, even those caused by prior failed penile implant surgeries.
No matter your age—whether you’ve never had surgery or had an unsuccessful procedure—it’s never too late to improve your quality of life.