Penile Implant

A penile implant is for erectile dysfunction ("ED") that is not adequately treated with oral medications (i.e., Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, etc.).

What causes ED:

The causes include high blood pressure, diabetes, neurologic diseases, and pelvic/prostate surgery or radiation.

Why get an implant?

For ED that doesn’t respond to oral medication, the treatment options include a vacuum erectile device (VED), injection therapy into the penis, and a penile implant. The penile implant is by far the most reliable option and achieves the highest satisfaction among both patients and their partners.

What is the surgery?

Penile implant is an outpatient procedure that can be done in anyone healthy enough to undergo anesthesia. The most common implant, a 3-piece inflatable implant, involves placing one cylinder into each of the two erectile bodies of the penis, a pump in the scrotum, and a fluid reservoir in the lower abdomen. When connected these elements will allow the patient to pump fluid from the reservoir into the cylinders to create an erection hard enough for intercourse. Once finished, the cylinders can be deflated using a button on the pump to return the penis to a flaccid state.

Will it effect my sensation or ability to climax?

The implant will have no impact on either your ability to climax or the sensation of the penis. Further, the appearance of the penis is unchanged after implant placement

What is the recovery?

Patients go home the same day or the morning after the procedure. Normal daily activity is okay after the procedure but a patient may not lift more than 10 pounds or engage in strenuous activity for 3 weeks after surgery. The patient will be taught how to inflate and deflate the device about 4 weeks after the procedure.

Is this covered by insurance?

Although insurance coverage varies, penile implant is generally covered, partially or fully, by insurance. Medicare covers penile implant.