A penile implant is a kind of medical device that is surgically placed inside the penis to enable erections in men who cannot achieve or maintain them naturally.
These devices are designed to restore sexual confidence in men, particularly for those who experience erectile dysfunction, by providing an implant.
In fact, penis implant surgery has been performed for over 40 years and is known as one of the most successful treatment options for erectile dysfunctions. The devices are completely internal and invisible when not in use, allowing men to maintain privacy about their condition.
Modern implants are highly reliable and durable, with most devices functioning effectively for 15 to 20 years or longer before requiring replacement.
What are the Types of Penile Implants?
There are mainly two types of penile prosthesis devices, each with unique advantages. Here we have highlighted the different types of penile implants. Check them out.
Inflatable Penile Implants
Inflatable implants are the most popular type of penis implant surgery. These devices come with two inflatable cylinders that are placed inside the penis, a pump placed in the scrotum, and a reservoir, which is filled with saline solution, positioned in the abdomen.
Now, to create an erection, you can squeeze the pump in his scrotum several times, which transfers fluid from the reservoir into the cylinders, causing them to expand and create rigidity. To deflate, press the deflation button on the pump, which will transfer the fluid return to the reservoir.
Here, the main advantages of inflatable implants are that it is a more natural in appearance and it has the ability to control the erection timing. Not only that, but the device closely mimics natural erectile function, providing the most satisfactory results for most couples.
Moreover, three-piece inflatable implants are considered the gold standard, though two-piece versions are available for men with limited abdominal space.
The complexity of these devices necessitates more surgical expertise; however, they also offer improved function and higher satisfaction rates, which should be considered when opting for penile implant surgery.
Malleable Penile Implants (Semi-Rigid)
Malleable implants are simpler devices which has two bendable rods placed inside the penis. These penile prosthesis devices don’t remain the same in size but can be positioned upward for sexual activity or downward under clothing.
Here, it is worth noting that surgery for malleable implants is typically shorter and less complex than that for inflatable devices, making them suitable for men with certain medical conditions or those who prefer simpler technology.
Not only that, but Malleable penile implants are also more durable because they have fewer mechanical parts that could malfunction.
However, malleable implants always maintain some rigidity, which some men find less natural. They may be more noticeable under tight clothing and don’t provide the natural flaccid state that many men prefer.
However, malleable implants have good longevity and require minimal maintenance.
When Is It Recommended?
Penis implant surgery is typically recommended when other erectile dysfunction treatments have failed or are unsuitable for the patient. This includes men who haven’t responded to oral medications like Viagra or Cialis, those who cannot use injection therapies, or men for whom other treatments pose health risks.
Penile implants are particularly beneficial for men with Peyronie’s disease who also have erectile dysfunction, as the surgery can address both conditions simultaneously. Here, a penile prosthesis helps straighten the penis while restoring erectile function.
In addition, men with diabetes-related erectile dysfunction often benefit from implants because their condition is considered more severe and less responsive to other treatments.
Similarly, men who have undergone prostate surgery and developed permanent erectile dysfunction may find implants offer the best path to restored sexual function.
The decision to proceed with implant surgery requires careful consideration of the patient’s overall health, relationship status, and personal preferences.
Most urologists recommend that patients try less invasive treatments first, but for men with severe erectile dysfunction, implants offer the highest satisfaction rates and most reliable results.
How Penile Implant Surgery Works?
After understanding the types of penile implants and consulting with the urologist, you should know how the penile implant process goes.
Penis implant surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general or spinal anesthesia. The surgery may last 1 to 2 hours. However, this may depend on the type of implant and any additional procedures that are required.
The surgeon or medical specialist for penile prosthesis surgery will make a small incision, either at the base of the penis or in the lower abdomen, to access the erectile chambers.
The natural erectile tissue is carefully dilated to create space for the implant cylinders. For inflatable devices, additional incisions are made to place the pump in the scrotum and reservoir in the abdomen.
After placing all components, the surgeon tests the device to ensure proper function, then closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures. Most patients can return home on the same day, although some may require overnight observation, depending on their overall health and the complexity of the procedure.
The surgical technique has been refined over decades, and experienced urologists report very high success rates with minimal complications. Modern surgical approaches minimize tissue damage and optimize healing, leading to faster recovery and better outcomes for patients.
What are the Benefits & Risks Involved in Penile Implants?
The primary benefit of penile prosthesis surgery is that it helps men to have intimacy. Men with implants can achieve erections whenever desired, regardless of factors like stress, medication, or medical conditions that might affect natural erections.
Not only that, but patient and partner satisfaction rates also increased by 90% in long-term studies. In fact, many couples report improved intimacy and relationship satisfaction after implant surgery. The devices are completely hidden and don’t interfere with urination, orgasm, or ejaculation.
However, like all surgical procedures, penis implant surgery carries certain risks. Infection occurs in 1-3% of cases and represents the most serious potential complication.
Patients with a history of cause of Peyronie’s disease, or those who have undergone non-surgical treatment for Peyronie’s disease, may have unique considerations regarding the risks and potential complications of penile implant surgery.
Furthermore, mechanical failure can occur over time, particularly with inflatable devices; however, modern implants are more reliable than earlier versions.
Some men even experience changes in penile sensation or size after surgery, though most adapt well to these changes. The irreversible nature of the procedure means that natural erections are no longer possible, making it important for men to be certain about their decision before proceeding.
Rare complications include erosion of the device through the skin or damage to surrounding structures, but these occur in less than 1% of cases when surgery is performed by experienced urologists.
Cost and Accessibility of Penile Implant Surgery
The cost of penis implant surgery in South Africa varies depending on the type of device, the surgeon’s experience, and facility fees. Inflatable implants are generally more expensive than malleable devices due to their complexity and the additional components required.
Most medical schemes in South Africa provide coverage for penile implants when they are medically necessary for treating erectile dysfunction.
However, coverage levels vary, and patients should verify their benefits before scheduling surgery. Some schemes require pre-authorization or may only cover certain types of devices.
Private healthcare facilities across South Africa, including those in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, offer penile implant surgery with the guidance of experienced urologists. The availability of different implant types has improved significantly in recent years, giving patients more options to choose from.
Many urologists offer financing options or payment plans to help make the procedure more accessible. When considering costs, it’s important to factor in the long-term value of the treatment, as implants typically provide decades of reliable function.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Most partners are unable to detect the presence of an implant during normal activities. Inflatable implants provide the most natural feel, while malleable implants may be slightly more noticeable but are still well-accepted by most couples.
Penile implants are designed to last 15 to 20 years or longer. Malleable implants tend to last longer than inflatable devices because they have fewer mechanical parts. However, many men never require replacement surgery during their lifetime.
Yes, penile implants don’t affect orgasm or ejaculation. These functions are controlled by different nerve pathways that aren’t altered by implant surgery. Most men report normal or improved sexual satisfaction after healing is complete.
Most urologists recommend waiting 6-8 weeks before resuming sexual activity to allow for proper healing. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your healing progress, health, complications, and, most importantly, the type of implant you received.
Malleable implants rarely malfunction because they have no moving parts. Inflatable implants may occasionally develop leaks or mechanical problems, but these can usually be repaired or replaced through a less complex revision surgery. Most modern implants come with manufacturer warranties that cover replacement costs for a specified period of time.
