Treat Erectile Dysfunction with a Penile Implant
If you are among the approximately 30 million American men who suffer from erectile dysfunction, a condition that prevents them from achieving or sustaining an erection, men’s health expert Larry Lipshultz can perform a penile implant procedure at his Houston, TX, practice. This prosthesis may not only restore your sexual function, but also improve your self-confidence and overall quality of life. If you would like to learn more about penile implants and find out whether this treatment is appropriate for you, contact our urology practice today to schedule a consultation.
What Is a Penile Implant?
A penile implant is a prosthesis that can help a man achieve and sustain an erection for improved sexual performance and satisfaction. We offer several types of penile implants at our urology clinic:
- A one-piece malleable prosthesis consists of a pair of cylinders inserted into the penis. This implant keeps your penis firm at all times, and can be easily moved up or down depending as needed. A malleable prosthesis can be easily concealed and requires a simple, minimally invasive procedure to insert.
- A two-piece inflatable implant consists of fluid-filled cylinders inserted into the penis and a connected pump that is placed in the scrotum. To achieve an erection, you will need to press and release the scrotal apparatus several times, which will direct fluid to your penis and harden it. Once you have completed sexual intercourse, you can simply deflate the implant with a single motion.
- A three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis is similar to a two-piece inflatable implant, with cylinders in the penis and a pump in the scrotum. However, this prosthesis also includes a third component: a reservoir inserted in your lower abdomen. The primary advantage of a three-piece inflatable prosthesis is that it more accurately recreates a natural erection, providing expanded girth as well as rigidity when inflated and a realistic soft, flaccid texture when deflated.
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
You may qualify for a penile implant if you suffer from erectile dysfunction and have not been able to successfully treat your condition with other therapies, such as oral medications and intracavernous injection therapy. You may also opt for a penile implant if you are not a good candidate for other treatments, such as penile arterial revascularization or venous ligation surgery.
Inserting the Implant
The surgical method used to insert your penile implant will depend on the type you choose. Whatever the method, Dr. Lipshultz will begin by making a short horizontal incision between the penis and the scrotum to place your prosthesis. We typically use general anesthesia to keep patients comfortable during this procedure, which takes less than two hours to complete. Most patients spend one night in the hospital after penile implant surgery and are able to heal completely within a few weeks. You will need to attend follow-up appointments at our office two and six weeks after your procedure. During these appointments, Dr. Lipshultz will assess your recovery and let you know when you may begin using the implant for intercourse (typically one to two months after your surgery).
Benefits of Penile Prostheses
Penile implants offer many advantages for patients. These include:
- Improved sexual function: 93 percent of men with penile prostheses report satisfaction with their implants and sexual intercourse.
- The ability to achieve and maintain an erection at any time, for as long as desired.
- A natural appearance and sensation.
- Financial savings: On the whole, penile implant surgery is a lower-cost option when compared to short-term solutions such as injections and oral medications.
Dr. Lipshultz can further explain the benefits of penile implants in your specific case during your initial consultation.
Reclaim Your Sexual Function and Health
Dr. Lipshultz can help you overcome erectile dysfunction and enjoy healthier, more satisfying sexual intercourse through the placement of a penile implant. Contact Larry Lipshultz, M.D., today and schedule a consultation to learn more about our prosthetic options. Find out how this procedure may benefit you.