What is an Inflatable Penile Prosthesis (IPP)?
In some men with both severe erectile dysfunction and Peyronie’s disease, placement of a penile prosthesis can address both problems. During the surgery, the prosthesis is placed and the penis is then “molded” to straighten it with the prosthesis inflated to correct the curvature. Even if this doesn’t completely correct the curvature, using the prosthesis over time often does.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my expected recovery time?
Everybody heals at different rates, so recovery times can vary between patients. Generally, you will likely begin to feel better after the first week.
How active can I be after surgery?
There are some restrictions following your surgery. Specifically, no heavy lifting (nothing over 15 lbs) for the first 4 weeks, and no rigorous exercise. Normal day to day activities may be resumed as you feel up to it. Many men ask if they can ever return to their favorite activities such as bike riding and running. Yes! You can return to those activities after you are fully healed.
Will I have to have my stitches removed?
No. The sutures we use are dissolvable, but are made to stay in for a long time. Your sutureswill likely dissolve over 4-8 weeks.
Is this an out-patient procedure?
Yes. However, you may spend the night in the hospital and be discharged the following morning. This is because you will have a Foley catheter in your bladder overnight, and a wrapped dressing over your penis and scrotum. If you are comfortable removing your catheter and the dressing yourself, you can be discharged the same day as your surgery and remove your catheter and dressing at home the following morning. You may also return to clinic to have this done for you.
Is bruising and swelling normal?
Yes. As with any surgery, there will be bruising and swelling. You will be prescribed post-operative pain medication and may utilize an ice pack to help with swelling.
When can I begin to use my device?
At your 2 week follow up appointment in clinic, you will be taught how to use your device. You will be given ‘physical therapy’ instructions to have it inflated for a certain amount of time each day. You may not be feeling 100% by this time, but the earlier you can begin your ‘physical therapy’ the better your ultimate function and size will be. Depending on how quickly you are healing, you may be able to resume sexual activity. The average time to resume sexual activity is between 4-6 weeks.
What will the penile implant look like after surgery?
Once healed, your implant will be completely undetectable. It is fully concealed in the body and no one will know unless you tell them.
Will the implant affect penis size?
A penile implant is not intended to add length to the penis. Most implants expand in length and girth in order to achieve the maximum size of the patient’s natural erection. The sizing is done during surgery and customized to each patient. Some men do experience some penile shortening, although it can be subjective. For example, men who have had erection problems for a long time might not accurately recall their earlier penis size.
What will the penile implant feel like for me and my partner?
A man’s erection after implant surgery looks and feels very natural. The penile implant does not change your sensation or ability to climax. The implant is replacing the erectile tissue that does not function anymore.
When inflated, the implant makes the penis rigid like a natural erection. The erection lasts for as long as you, and/or your partner, desires. Patients and partners report over a 95%satisfaction rate!
Does a penile implant affect urination?
No, the implant will not affect urination since the urethra is separate from where the penile implant cylinders are placed. As shown below, the penile implant sits in the 2 cylinders of the penis that enable erection. The tube that you pee through, the urethra, is down below so the device does not impact urination.
Cross Section of PenisAre penile implants covered by insurance?
Penile implants are generally covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare.
