When considering an operation for a penile implantWhen considering a penile implant procedure, it’s natural to have a number of questions, not least about the different brands of penile implants available. In France, only certain manufacturers have been approved by the healthcare system to sell and support penile implants. These brands guarantee top quality that meets medical requirements and patient expectations. In this article, I explain in detail what distinguishes these different brands, to help you better understand this crucial choice.

The different brands of penile implants available in France

In France, three major brands of penile implants are offered and reimbursed by the health insurance scheme. These brands are : Boston Scientific, Coloplast and Rigicon. All three manufacturers produce their implants in the USA before importing them into France. The rigorous selection of these brands by the French health authorities guarantees their reliability, safety and efficacy.

The fact that these brands are recognized and covered by the French healthcare system is a guarantee of quality. This means that only products meeting strict manufacturing and performance criteria can be offered to patients. So, when you choose a penile implant from France, you can be sure of a top-quality medical product.

Main differences between penile implant brands

Many patients want to choose a specific brand of penile implant before their operation. This request is understandable, but it’s important to know that the main difference between these brands often lies in the design of the pump, which is the element used to inflate and deflate the implant.

The pump: a key element

The pump is the interface between the patient and the implant. It activates the artificial erection by inflating the cylinders implanted in the penis, and deflates it by pressing a deflation button. Each brand offers a different pump shape and size:

• Compact pump: Some pumps are smaller and more discreet, which can be an aesthetic and practical advantage for some patients.
• Larger pump: Other models are wider, which can make them easier to hold and use, especially for patients with gripping difficulties.

There’s no such thing as a universal ideal pump. The choice will depend on your personal preferences, dexterity and comfort. For example, a small pump may be very discreet but more difficult to handle for some, while a larger pump will be easier to grasp but may be more visible.

Cylinder size: length and diameter

Another frequent question concerns the size of the cylinders that make up the implant. It’s essential to understand that the length of the cylinders is not an arbitrary choice you can make yourself before the operation. This measurement is taken directly during the operation, by the surgeon, based on the patient’s precise anatomy.

The length of the cylinders is therefore customized in the operating room to ensure optimal, natural results. Before the operation, however, it is advisable to prepare the penis by re-educating it using a vacuum device. This preparation improves the flexibility and length of the penis, which can facilitate implant placement and the choice of cylinders.

As for cylinder diameter, this is where the brands stand out the most:

• Large-diameter cylinders: Some brands offer cylinders up to 13 mm in diameter, suitable for large penises.
• Small-diameter cylinders: For patients with scarred or fibrotic penises, particularly after surgery or in the case of conditions such as Peyronie’s disease, some brands offer thinner cylinders that facilitate implantation in less supple tissue.

It is therefore crucial to discuss these aspects with your urologist before the operation. A preliminary consultation enables the surgeon to examine your anatomy, understand your expectations, and choose the implant brand and model best suited to your situation.

How to choose the brand and model of penile implant?

The choice of brand and model of penile implant should be made in collaboration with your surgeon. Thanks to his expertise and experience, he will be able to determine which implant is best suited to your needs.

Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Talk openly with your urologist: Don’t hesitate to express your preferences, expectations and concerns. For example, if you have a preference for a discreet pump or anticipate difficulties in handling a smaller pump, tell your surgeon.
2. Do a thorough examination: The surgeon needs to be able to examine you to assess the size, flexibility and condition of your penis. This will enable him or her to choose the right cylinder size and brand with the right technical features.
3. Prepare for surgery: By rehabilitating with a vacuum device before surgery, you optimize the conditions for implantation and increase the chances of a satisfactory result.
4. Trust your surgeon: On the day of the operation, you will be under anaesthetic, and it will be up to your surgeon to choose the implant best suited to your anatomy. This is a technical procedure requiring precise expertise.

If you have a specific brand request, it’s important to discuss it in advance. Your surgeon can then see if he or she can accommodate your request, or explain why another brand would be more appropriate.

Why trust your surgeon when choosing an implant?

Choosing a penile implant is not just a matter of aesthetics or preference. It is a technical surgical procedure that must guarantee long-term comfort, reliability, functionality and safety.

Your surgeon is the professional best placed to :

• Assess your anatomical and medical situation.
• Choose the right cylinder size and diameter.
• Select the brand whose technical specifications match your needs.
• Ensure optimal post-operative follow-up.

By relying on his expertise, you increase your chances of achieving a natural, functional and long-lasting result. Dialogue is essential, however, to ensure that you are fully informed and confident before the operation.

In a nutshell: key points to remember

• In France, only three main brands of penile implants are available and reimbursed: Boston Scientific, Coloplast and Rigicon.
• The main difference between these brands lies in the shape and size of the pump used to inflate and deflate the implant.
• The length of the cylinders is chosen by the surgeon at the time of the operation, according to your anatomy.
• Cylinder diameters vary from brand to brand, with options suitable for large or scarred penises.
• It is important to prepare for surgery by rehabilitating with a vacuum device.
• Discuss your preferences and expectations with your urologist before the operation.
• Trust your surgeon to choose the implant best suited to your situation.

Conclusion

Choosing a penile implant is an important step in the treatment of erectile dysfunction or other penile pathologies. In France, implant quality and safety are ensured by a rigorous selection of available brands. Boston Scientific, Coloplast and Rigicon all offer reliable devices, but with notable differences in pump and cylinder dimensions.

To achieve the best results, advance preparation, in-depth consultation with your urologist and mutual trust are essential. Don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon any questions you may have, and he or she will be able to guide you towards the solution best suited to your anatomy and personal needs.

Taking care of your sexual health is essential, and the right choice of penile implant goes a long way towards improving your quality of life. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your situation, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist in andrological urology.