Introduction

When I talk about penile implants with my patients, I’m always transparent. There’s no point in hiding things: every procedure carries risks, even if, in our case, they remain very low. I’ve also noticed that when we take the time to calmly explain what can happen—and especially how to prevent it—anxiety immediately decreases.

So let’s take the time to review the risks, possible complications, and also a point I’m often asked: “Doctor, how long does an implant last?”

1. Immediate risks: what you really need to know

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that penile implant surgery is one of the most predictable procedures in our specialty. The technique is standardized, precise, and serious complications are very rare. But let’s talk about it frankly.

Infection: the most feared complication, but very rare

This is THE point that comes up in every consultation.

To be honest, implant infection is an uncommon situation, but it does happen.

Today, implants are made with antibacterial materials, and we operate under extremely strict conditions. The result:
👉 The infection rate is between 0.5% and 2% depending on the profiles.

The patients most at risk are:

patients whose diabetes is poorly controlled
patients who did not stop smoking at the time of the operation and in the month following it
those who have already had an infection on an implant,
or immune disorders.

In the vast majority of cases, everything goes perfectly well.

Significant hematoma or edema

Sometimes the penis swells more than expected in the first few days. Nothing alarming: it remains temporary and it regresses with ice, rest and good support.

Post-operative pain

To be clear: it’s generally not “pain”, but rather discomfort.

Most patients tell me:
“I thought it would hurt more, but actually it didn’t.”

Simple painkillers are sufficient.

2. Medium and long-term complications

They are rare to encounter, but they do exist, so let’s just talk about them.

Mechanical malfunction

For malleable implants, it’s virtually impossible.
Modern inflatable implants are very robust. Failures sometimes occur after several years. In such cases, the defective part or the entire implant can be replaced.

Erosion

Very rare, but possible in some fragile patients: this occurs when the implant presses too hard against the internal tissues.
It can be detected early if the monitoring is done properly.

Fibrosis or persistent discomfort

This occurs in a small number of patients, particularly those who already had fibrosis of the corpora cavernosa before the procedure. In that case, we adjust, we re-educate, we provide support.

3. Lifespan of an implant: the question everyone asks

This is probably one of the first questions I hear: “Doctor, how long will this take?” The answer is rather reassuring:

👉 Malleable implants: 10 to 20 years

These models are extremely robust. Their mechanical simplicity makes them virtually “unbreakable”.

👉 Hydraulic implants: 10 to 15 years on average

Current models are very reliable. Some patients return after 12, 13, sometimes 15 years to consider a change.
It depends a lot:

of use,
physical activity,
the quality of the fabrics,
and sometimes simply… luck.

Can the implant be changed?

Yes of course.
This is a service we perform regularly. We usually take advantage of this time to install a newer, more efficient, and more comfortable model.

4. How to reduce the risk of complications?

I always say:
50% of the success is the intervention. The remaining 50% is the recovery.

Here’s what really makes the difference:

follow the post-operative recommendations,
avoid exerting yourself too early
to maintain impeccable hygiene,
walk a little each day,
wear the support underwear,
and to come for check-ups, even if everything seems to be going perfectly well.

Monitoring helps to identify minor problems before they become real problems.

5. And what about your intimate life?

What I see, year after year, is that the vast majority of patients move forward calmly after the implant.
Complications are rare, and satisfaction is very high, especially when one has had severe erectile dysfunction for a long time.

Many people tell me:
“If I had known, I would have done it sooner.”

Videos by Dr. Sébastien Beley to better understand the risks and lifespan of implants

Lifespan of a penile implant: how long does it really last?

Penile implant: how it works, possible malfunctions, and system reliability

Penile implant and sensations: what changes, what doesn't change

Conclusion

The purpose of this page is not to worry you, but to inform you.
Yes, there are risks — as with all surgeries. But they are low, manageable, and monitored.

The implant has a very good lifespan, and even when replacement is necessary, it remains a surgery we routinely perform.

With proper follow-up and serious recovery, the results are lasting, stable, and bring about a real improvement in intimate and psychological life.

Sources and references

✔ European Association of Urology (EAU) – Recommendations on the management of erectile dysfunction
https://uroweb.org/guidelines/sexual-and-reproductive-health/chapter/management-of-erectile-dysfunction

✔ Mayo Clinic – Penile implant surgery: risks, complications and longevity
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/penile-implants/about/pac-20384916

✔ Cleveland Clinic – Penile prosthesis: risks of infection, mechanical failures and lifespan
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10054-surgical-penile-implants

✔ UrologyHealth (Urology Care Foundation) – Understanding penile implants
https://www.urologyhealth.org

Risks, complications & lifespan of the penile implant