I’m Dr. Sébastien Beley, urologist in Paris, and today I’d like to talk about a subject that concerns many men suffering from severe erectile dysfunction: the possibility of regaining a normal penis thanks to a penile implant. Advanced erectile dysfunction can lead to retraction of the penis, both in length and width, affecting not only erectile function but also resting appearance. In this article, I’ll explain how a penile implant can not only improve the quality of erections, but also enable the penis to regain a volume closer to its original shape.
Understanding severe erectile dysfunction and its impact on the penis
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common disorder that can affect men of any age, but it becomes particularly disabling when severe and long-lasting. Many men with advanced ED experience progressive retraction of the penis. This is manifested by a visible reduction in penile length and girth, especially in the resting state. This loss of volume can have a major psychological impact, affecting self-confidence, social life and, of course, sex life.
It’s important to understand that this retraction is not simply an aesthetic phenomenon. It is often linked to fibrosis and atrophy of the corpora cavernosa, the internal structures of the penis that fill with blood during erection. When these corpora cavernosa no longer function properly, they can atrophy, which explains the loss of volume. This situation is unfortunately common in patients whose erectile dysfunction has not been effectively treated for a long time.
The limits of drug treatments for penile volume restoration
When faced with erectile dysfunction, the first treatments offered are often drugs: Cialis, Viagra, intra-cavernous prostaglandin injections, etc. These treatments improve erection quality by facilitating blood flow to the penis. These treatments improve the quality of erections by facilitating blood flow to the penis, but they do not correct the retraction linked to atrophy of the corpora cavernosa. In other words, even if you manage to achieve an erection with these drugs, the volume of your penis at rest will remain reduced if fibrosis and tissue loss are significant.
That’s why, when drug treatments are no longer sufficient to restore a satisfactory erection, it’s important to consider other therapeutic options. Among these, thepenile implant stands out as an effective solution not only for restoring erectile function, but also for improving aesthetics and resting size.
What is a penile implant and how does it work?
Thepenile implant is a medical device surgically implanted in the cavernous bodies of the penis. There are several types, but the most common are inflatable implants, which allow the patient to manually control the erection by filling or emptying the implanted cylinders.
The principle is simple: by replacing the ability of the corpora cavernosa to fill with blood with rigid or inflatable cylinders, the implant recreates a firm, long-lasting erection. But beyond this primary function, the implant also has a mechanical effect on the penis. The cavernous bodies are kept permanently filled by the cylinders, preventing retraction and restoring a length and width closer to those before the onset of erectile dysfunction.
Cosmetic benefits of penile implants
This restoration of volume at rest is an often overlooked benefit of penile implants. Many men suffer from losing the natural appearance of their penis when at rest, which can be embarrassing in everyday situations such as changing in the changing room or in front of their partner. The implant offers a solution to this loss of volume, restoring the penis to a more normal shape, visible even without an erection.
This does not mean that the penile implant is only indicated to treat an aesthetic problem of length or volume at rest. This is not its primary role. On the other hand, for patients with severe erectile dysfunction and associated volume loss, the implant can be a highly satisfactory solution, both functionally and aesthetically.
Who can benefit from a penile implant?
Penile implants are generally recommended for men in whom drug treatments are no longer effective or cannot be used. This includes:
- Patients with severe and long-lasting erectile dysfunction
- Men with significant fibrosis of the corpora cavernosa
- Those who want to regain a firm, reliable erection
- Patients who are dissatisfied with other treatments or no longer wish to depend on them
It’s essential to consult a specialist urologist to assess your specific situation and discuss the benefits and risks of penile implant surgery. Each case is unique, and the decision must be taken in consultation with a healthcare professional.
Surgery and recovery
Penile implant surgery is performed under anesthesia. The cylinders are inserted into the corpus cavernosum after tissue preparation. The operation generally lasts about an hour, and requires a short hospital stay.
After surgery, a recovery period is necessary. The patient must wait a few weeks before being able to use the implant, to allow the tissues to heal properly. Then, he can gradually learn to manipulate the device to achieve an erection on demand.
It’s important to note that a penile implant is a permanent solution. Once fitted, it is difficult to go back. However, modern implants are designed to last for many years, and offer a high rate of patient satisfaction.
Expected results and restored quality of life
The main benefit of the penile implant is, of course, the restoration of functional erectile capacity. This in turn helps restore a satisfying sex life, which is essential for personal well-being and the couple’s relationship.
In addition, as mentioned above, the implant also restores a more natural penile volume at rest. This aesthetic improvement helps to boost self-confidence and reduce anxiety about the appearance of the penis.
Many patients report a significant improvement in their quality of life after penile implant surgery, not only in terms of sexual health, but also in terms of body image and psychological well-being.
In a nutshell: the penile implant, a complete solution for severe erectile dysfunction
In conclusion, the penile implant is much more than just a treatment for erectile dysfunction. It’s a device that restores reliable erectile function while improving the aesthetic appearance and volume of the penis, even at rest. This dual action makes it a valuable option for men suffering from severe and advanced dysfunction, who can no longer benefit from drug treatments.
If you find yourself in this situation, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist urologist to discuss the possibility of a penile implant. This procedure can change your life, allowing you to regain a normal penis, both in appearance and function.
Take care of your health and remember that erectile dysfunction is a common and treatable disorder. The penile implant is an effective solution worth knowing about and considering when other options no longer suffice.