Erectile Dysfunction and Penile Prosthesis

Erectile Dysfunction (impotency) can strike men at any age, and from all walks of life. Many men are embarrassed about not being able to get or sustain an erection suitable for penetration. And, of course, without penetration, there is no intercourse. Often times, marriages or relationships become strained because just because he can't perform, does not mean she has lost sexual desires and needs.

Penile prosthesis is an option to treat erectile dysfunction. Common surgically treatments are malleable or inflatable. The most simple type of prosthesis is surgically implanting two malleable (bendable) rods in the penis chambers. However, the penis will always be semi-rigid with this type of implant, which can be problematic when wearing tight fitting clothes or swim trunks. However, most popular is the inflatable prosthesis that allows a man to get an erection anytime he chooses, is easier to conceal, and more natural.

Penile implants are usually good choices when the man's problem most likely will not reverse itself and the cause is due to medical reasons, such as diabetes.

How Does A Penile Prosthesis Work?

Basically, an inflatable penile prosthesis has two cylinders, a reservoir and a pump. The two cylinders are surgically inserted in a man's penis, under the groin muscles. A pump is connected and placed under the loose skin of the scrotal sac (between the testicles).

Pressing on the pump will cause the man to get an erection. When the erection is no longer needed, the penis returns to a normal state by pressing on the deflation valve near the base of the pump.

Will the Implant Be Noticeable?

There will be a small scar on the underside of the penis, but most people will be unable to visibly detect whether a man has had prosthesis surgery.

Will Sex Be The Same?

When the penis is inflated, it will be stiff and thick, similar to a natural erection. The new implants have longer cylinders that can increase the length, thickness, and stiffness of a penis.

There is no interference to sensation of the penis skin,ability to reach orgasm, or ejaculation with a penis implant. But, a man's natural erection reflex may be destroyed, and most cannot get an erection without inflating the implant.

Are Implants Effective?

Inflatable penile implants produce erections suitable for intercourse about 90-95 percent of the time. Most men report satisfaction with the inflatable prosthesis, and would recommend the surgery.

Are Implants Safe?

There is no surgery completely free of potential complications. Some complications associated with this type of surgery can include:

• Hemorrhaging after surgery could lead to re-operation.
• Scar tissue can form.
• Tissue around the implant area can break down and need to be removed.
• Mechanical failure, which may require re-operation or removal.

Does Insurance Cover Penis Prosthesis Implant Surgery?

Chances of insurance covering these types of operations is very good, if it is done for medical reasons. Medicare covers the surgery, but Medicaid does not.

How Much Does Penile Prosthesis Surgery Cost?

The cost of penis implant surgery averages between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on your geographical location, choice of surgeon, and type of implant chosen.