WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is penile prosthesis? A penile prosthesis is a device that is implanted in the penis. A penile prosthesis makes it possible to have and maintain an erection. It is used when other treatments for erectile dysfunction have failed. What are the 2 types of penile prosthesis? Ask your healthcare provider for more information about the following implants: - An inflatable implant is a fluid-filled device that is easily hidden and may feel more natural. An inflatable implant has a pump, container, and reservoir. You squeeze the pump, which is located in your scrotum, and fluid is transferred into the container. When the container fills with fluid, your penis becomes erect. To deflate the implant, you press the valve or release bar of the pump, and the fluid returns to the reservoir. There are different models of inflatable implants available.
- A semi-rigid rod implant is bendable and may be controlled for an erection. A semi-rigid implant is always ready and may be easier to use than other penile implants. You can bend down your rod implant for urination or when not having sex.
How is a penile prosthesis implanted? Your surgeon will make an incision in your penis and place the implant into the shaft of your penis. If you have an inflatable implant, the pump will be placed inside your scrotum and attached to the implant. A drain may be placed to remove extra blood or fluid from your surgery area. The incisions will be closed with stitches and covered with a bandage. You may need to wait up to 6 weeks after surgery before you use the penile prosthesis. What are the risks of a penile prosthesis? The penile prosthesis may become infected or irritated. You may develop scar tissue. Your penis may not look the way you thought it would. You may have trouble urinating or have swelling or numbness in your penis. The implant may move out of place or not work properly. The implant may need to be removed. You may still have problems having an erection. |