Penile Implant
One of Dr. Lazare’s specialties includes penile implant surgery. A penile implant is a device that is placed inside of the penis. It allows men with erectile dysfunction (ED) to get an erection. Penile implants are commonly recommended after other ED treatments fail. This procedure can help boost your confidence, and ensure you of a better quality of life.
What is a Penile Implant?
A penile implant, also called a penile prosthesis, is a surgically placed device inside the penis and, in many cases, the scrotum and lower abdomen. Its purpose is to provide men with erectile dysfunction the ability to get a firm erection suitable for sexual intercourse, particularly when other treatments such as oral medications, injections, vacuum devices or lifestyle interventions have not been successful. There are two broad types of implants: inflatable devices and semi-rigid rods. Inflatable systems typically consist of cylinders placed in the penis, a pump in the scrotum, and, for certain models, a fluid reservoir under the abdominal wall. Semi-rigid rods are simpler but remain semi-firm at all times, so the penis can be bent upward for intercourse and downward for concealment. Importantly, penile implants do not increase sexual desire, nor do they necessarily make the penis longer than it was before. They restore the ability to get an erection.
Why Consider a Penile Implant?
Men typically consider a penile implant when they have erectile dysfunction that has persisted despite trying other standard treatments such as oral medications or injection therapy. They may have anatomical issues, prior pelvic or prostate surgery, or other medical conditions such as severe diabetes or vascular disease that have limited the success of prior therapies. They are seeking a treatment that offers a long-term, dependable solution that allows spontaneity and control when sexual activity is desired. With proper patient selection and counseling, penile implants consistently produce some of the highest satisfaction rates among ED treatments.
The Procedure – What to Expect
Your consultation with Dr. Lazare will involve a detailed discussion of your medical history, prior ED treatments, current medications, physical exam, and expectations. It is important to ensure you are in optimal health to minimize surgical risks, including controlling diabetes and checking for any urinary or skin infection. Instructions will be provided regarding preparations such as fasting, antibiotic prophylaxis, cleansing with antimicrobial soaps, and avoiding certain medications before surgery. The operation is typically performed under general or spinal anesthesia. Depending on the type of implant chosen, Dr. Lazare may make one or more small incisions in the lower abdomen or base of the penis. The cylinders are placed within the corpora cavernosa, the erectile chambers of the penis. If an inflatable model is used, the pump is placed in the scrotum and the reservoir under the abdominal wall or in pelvic tissue. The procedure often takes about 45 to 90 minutes depending on implant type and complexity. You may be discharged the same day or stay overnight depending on individual factors. Pain, swelling, and bruising are expected initially. You will receive post-operative instructions regarding wound care, activity restrictions including avoiding heavy lifting or sexual activity, and when to resume sexual activity, typically four to six weeks, to allow healing. During follow-up visits, Dr. Lazare will check wound healing, teach you how to use the implant, especially for inflatable models, and monitor for any complications or concerns.
Benefits and Outcomes
Penile implants allow a man to produce an erection sufficient for intercourse when desired and maintain it for as long as needed. They can significantly improve quality of life, sexual satisfaction, partner satisfaction, and self-esteem. Modern devices are highly reliable, with many lasting 10 to 20 years or more with proper care. The device is entirely under the skin and not visible when flaccid, especially for inflatable models.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, penile implant surgery carries risks, though they are relatively low when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Lazare. Infection may occur, and if it involves the device, removal may be required. Mechanical failure is rare but possible, and devices may malfunction over time requiring revision surgery. Some men perceive a slight shortening of the penis after surgery due to tissue changes, although this does not affect sexual function. In very rare cases, the implant may erode through the skin or damage the urethra. Once an implant is placed, you typically can no longer rely on medications or other treatments to produce a natural erection, as the implant becomes your method for achieving an erection. During your consultation, Dr. Lazare will review these risks in detail, help you weigh the benefits and risks, discuss realistic expectations, and include your partner in discussions if desired.
Recovery and Long-Term Care
Expect soreness, swelling, and bruising for a week or two. Pain can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain-relievers and use of ice packs or scrotal support. Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, or sexual activity for four to six weeks or as directed. Return to sedentary work may be sooner, and more active jobs may require more time. For inflatable devices, your doctor will instruct when to begin practice inflations to build familiarity and stretching of surrounding tissue. Proper technique ensures optimal long-term outcome. Regular follow-up visits help detect early complications, check function, and ensure that you and your partner are satisfied with results. Maintaining good cardiovascular health, controlling diabetes and hypertension, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use all improve both sexual health and the longevity of the implant.
Is a Penile Implant Right for You?
If you are dealing with erectile dysfunction that has not adequately responded to other treatments, a penile implant may be an excellent option. During your consultation, Dr. Lazare will assess your overall health, medical history, severity of ED, personal goals, and partner concerns to determine if you are a good candidate. Because the implant is a permanent change, the decision should be well informed. You will be guided through the full process, from device selection, surgical planning, recovery timeline, to long-term expectations so you can approach the procedure with confidence.
Contact Us
If you are ready to explore whether penile implant surgery is the right solution for your erectile dysfunction and to reclaim your sexual health and confidence, contact our Brooklyn, NY office today at (718) 806‑9425. Dr. Jonathan Lazare is a board-certified urologist and skilled surgeon with extensive experience in male sexual health and prosthetic surgery. Let us help you take the next step toward a better quality of life.
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