What are Penile Implants?
Penile Implants or also known as Penile Prosthesis are devices placed completely within the body. It is another treatment option available for men with erectile dysfunction.
When all else treatment fails, Penile implant is one more option for persons with erectile dysfunction. Although sildenafil (Viagra) has changed the rule of the game, it is a fact that a large number of patients will not either respond or cannot take it because of side effects. In such a situation we must not forget penile implants as they are almost guaranteed to work.
What are different types of implants available?
There are two types of implants that are used nowadays namely - semi rigid penile prosthesis and inflatable penile prosthesis.
The advantages of semi-rigid penile implant are that it is simple to use and has no connection that can go wrong. The disadvantage is that the front portion of the penis remains hard all the time. Thus, concealment may be a problem.
In contrast, the inflatable penile implant has two empty cylinders. These fill up when a button placed in the scrotum is pressed. Similarly, the implant can be deflated by pressing another button. There is therefore a near normal erection with the inflatable device.
In short, the semi rigid prosthesis is like maruti 800 car whereas the inflatable prosthesis is like a rolls royce. Both can do the job but the comfort level is different.
Are Penile implants noticeable?
Both the implants are inserted in such a manner that only the person who has an implant would know.
- What is the risk factors involved with this surgery?
- Uncontrolled bleeding after the surgery possibly leading to re-operation
- Infection
- Scar tissue formation
- Erosion (tissue around the implant may break down) requiring removal
- Mechanical failure leading to re-operation and removal
Penile implant surgery is very safe. However, No surgery is totally free of possible complications. Complications usually associated with penile implants include: