27 Nov Is Penile Implant Surgery Worth It?
Penile implant surgery is a treatment option for men experiencing erectile dysfunction when non-surgical methods, such as oral medications, injections, hormone therapy, vacuum erection devices, lifestyle modifications, and psychological counselling, have proven ineffective. This surgical procedure involves placing an implant within the penis to help achieve and maintain an erection. Deciding whether the procedure is worth it requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s an overview to help you understand the key aspects of the procedure and determine if it aligns with your personal goals and needs.
Understanding the Types of Penile Implants
When considering the procedure, you should first understand the different types of penile implants to determine how they can achieve your goals and impact your lifestyle. There are two primary types of penile implants: inflatable and semi-rigid (malleable) implants. Inflatable implants make use of cylinders that are inserted into the penis that can be filled with fluid via a small pump. By pressing the pump, it allows you to achieve and maintain an erection. Semi-rigid implants, on the other hand, provide a constant firmness. They are composed of malleable rods, typically made from silicone or other flexible materials, which are surgically inserted into the penile shaft, allowing the penis to be manually positioned for intercourse or rest as needed.
Advantages of Penile Implants
Penile implants provide specific advantages for men with erectile dysfunction that other treatments do not offer. These include the following:
- Do not require repeated dosing or external aids.
- Offers a long-term solution (can last 10 to 15 years, depending on implant type, quality, usage, and maintenance practices)
- Do not interfere with other bodily functions or activities
- Allow for spontaneous intimacy, as there’s no need to plan or take medication beforehand
- Provide consistent and reliable results without dependence on fluctuating factors like blood flow or medication absorption
- Can be tailored to individual preferences with options for inflatable or semi-rigid types, accommodating different lifestyle needs
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, penile implant surgery carries risks and potential complications, such as the following:
- Infection
- Mechanical failure (for inflatable implants)
- Scarring
- Device malfunction
- Pain or discomfort, either short-term or chronic
- Scar tissue formation around the implant
- Reduced or altered penile sensation
- Erosion or extrusion of the implant through the skin
- Bleeding or haematomaformation
- Injury to surrounding structures, such as nerves or blood vessels
- Allergic reaction to implant materials
- Device displacement or migration
- Shortened penile length due to the implant placement
- Fluid accumulation (seroma) around the implant
- Recurrent or persistent erectile dysfunction, depending on implant type
- The potential need for revision surgery or replacement over time
Being well-informed about potential complications allows you to weigh these risks against the anticipated benefits. You should discuss these risks with the surgeon for you to make informed decisions and set realistic expectations.
Recovery Process and Downtime
The recovery process following the surgery involves several weeks of limited activity and specific post-operative care. During the initial healing period, you will likely experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. To prevent unnecessary tension or pressure on the incision sites, you will need to avoid strenuous activities, such as exercise or lifting heavy objects, for approximately four to six weeks. After this period, you can resume regular daily activities and sexual intercourse. It is important to keep in mind that the recovery process varies depending on the type of implant, the extent of the procedure, age, and adherence to post-surgical instructions.
Maintenance and Long-Term Considerations
Penile implants, especially inflatable ones, require minimal but specific maintenance to ensure their longevity and proper functioning. Depending on usage, inflatable implants may need occasional adjustments or monitoring to prevent mechanical failure. In contrast, semi-rigid implants generally involve less maintenance but have fewer customisation options. Most importantly, you should be prepared for the possibility of revision surgery after 10 to 15 years, as implants typically have a limited lifespan.
By considering these factors, you can make a well-informed decision about whether penile implant surgery is a worthwhile option for your lifestyle, health, and personal goals. At the Erectile Dysfunction Clinic, Dr Alistair Campbell will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, taking into account your medical history, the severity of erectile dysfunction, and any pre-existing health conditions that may impact the procedure or recovery.
Reasons to Choose Dr Campbell for Penile Implant Surgery in Gold Coast
Dr Alistair Campbell is one of the highest-volume penile prosthesis implanters in Australia, having performed over one thousand implants. To increase the success rate of his penile implant surgeries, he conducts thorough pre-surgical evaluations at the Erectile Dysfunction Clinic. This includes assessing the patient’s overall health, identifying any underlying conditions, and managing potential risk factors such as diabetes, heart disease, or other medical conditions that could increase the likelihood of complications. His experience and attention to detail help ensure patients receive a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and health status.
Dr Alistair Campbell’s patient selection process involves evaluating whether a penile implant is the most suitable option based on the patient’s overall health, age, and erectile dysfunction severity. For patients who have not had success with other treatments, penile implants can be a suitable option. He carefully considers each patient’s medical history and lifestyle to determine the type of implant—whether inflatable or semi-rigid—that aligns with their preferences and physical needs. This approach ensures that each patient receives an individualised plan.
Safety is a priority for Dr Campbell, and he implements strict protocols to maintain high standards in his surgical practice. He follows meticulous preoperative and postoperative care, advising patients on lifestyle modifications and adherence to aftercare guidelines to support healing. His commitment to thorough evaluation, precise surgical technique, and attentive follow-up care helps patients achieve their goals while reducing potential risks associated with the procedure.
