Penile Implant Infection Symptoms

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Penile Implant Infection Symptoms

A healthy sex life is important to many men. However, many suffer from erectile dysfunction, which makes it difficult to get and maintain an erection. 

Many men take pills such as Viagra to achieve an erection. Others opt for regular testosterone shots. These options work well for many men, but some still struggle with their sex lives. 

For men looking for a more permanent option to treat their erectile dysfunction, there is something called a penile implant. A penile implant may seem odd to some men, but those who have one enjoy the fact that they can get an erection on demand — in as little as 15 seconds — by using a pump. The satisfaction rate is as high as 95%, so it’s a very effective option. 

While penile implants last a long time — typically 10-15 years — there is a risk of infection after the surgery. The rate is very low, at just 1%, because of the special surgical techniques and antibiotics used. 

Still, you should know what to expect in case an infection happens to you. Most infections happen within the first year.  Fifty-sex percent happen within seven months of the implant surgery, while another 36% happen between months 7 and 12. Less than 3% happen after five years.

Signs of Infection

Here are some signs that you may have a penile implant infection:

• Significant pain at the surgery site
• Red, swollen, tender, and hot skin
• Pus draining from the incision
• Hematoma or abscess around the implant area
• Fever
• Prolonged fixation of the pump to the scrotal wall

As the surgery is on a sensitive area of the body, you can expect that there may be moderate pain for several weeks following the operation. Therefore, pain alone is not a sign of infection. Typically, one or more of the other signs must be present. 

It is possible for the implant to erode due to infection. In any case, if infection is present, the implant and all foreign material should be removed. When the implant is removed, the body will clear the infection using its defense mechanisms. 

Many doctors may consider using oral antibiotics in an attempt to sterilize the area, but this is often impossible. Placing irrigation drains around the wound may be helpful in eliminating all traces of the infection. A new implant can then be inserted after healing —two months or so.

Contact Us Today

A penile implant may be the best way to get your sex life back if pills and shots aren’t working. However, there are risks involved, such as infection, so make sure you know the signs.

Have questions or concerns? A New York doctor from Lazare Urology can help you understand what to expect so you can make an informed decision as to whether or not a penile implant is right for you. Call (718) 568-7516 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation. We serve the Brooklyn area.