Our Summary

This research paper studies whether there is a link between the size of a penis before surgery to insert a penile implant and the size of the erect penis after surgery. Some patients aren’t happy after this surgery because they believe it has made their penis shorter. This study checked if the length of the penis when stretched before surgery is the same after surgery when the implant makes the penis erect.

The researchers measured the length and thickness of the penis before the implant was put in, and then again after the surgery when the penis was erect. They noted the type of implant used and other things like the patient’s weight and any health conditions they had.

In total, they studied 133 patients. Most patients (about 66%) had a type of implant called a malleable penile prosthesis (MPP) and the rest had an inflatable one (IPP). The average age of the patients was 56 years old and their average weight was in the overweight range. About 30% of them had high blood pressure, about 28% had Peyronie’s disease (a condition causing a curve in the penis), and about 67% had diabetes.

Before the implant, the average stretched penis length was about 13 cm, and the average thickness was about 10 cm. After the surgery, the average erect length was about 13 cm and the average thickness was about 11 cm. So, overall, both the average length and thickness of the penis increased slightly after surgery. Patients with an IPP had a slightly bigger increase in size than those with an MPP.

The researchers also checked if things like weight, high blood pressure, diabetes, or Peyronie’s disease affected the results, but they found that these things didn’t make a difference.

In conclusion, surgery to insert a penile implant doesn’t significantly reduce the size of the penis compared to before the surgery. The size before surgery is a good indicator of the size after surgery, although the thickness might not be the same. The researchers suggest that discussing and agreeing on penis size with patients before surgery could help them feel more satisfied with the results.

FAQs

  1. Does penile implant surgery affect the size of the penis?
  2. Does the type of implant used (MPP vs IPP) affect the size increase after surgery?
  3. Did factors like weight, high blood pressure, diabetes, or Peyronie’s disease have an impact on the results of the surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient considering penile implant surgery is to have realistic expectations about the outcome. It’s important to understand that the surgery can improve erectile function but may not significantly change the size of the penis. Discussing your concerns and desired outcomes with your doctor before the surgery can help ensure that you are satisfied with the results. Additionally, following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments is crucial for a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for penile implant surgery are those who have erectile dysfunction that has not responded to other treatments such as medication, vacuum devices, or injections. This surgery may also be recommended for patients who have had prostate cancer treatment that has resulted in erectile dysfunction, or for patients with Peyronie’s disease, a condition that causes a significant curvature of the penis.

It is important for patients considering penile implant surgery to have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes of the surgery, including the size and shape of the penis after the implant is inserted. Discussing these expectations with a healthcare provider before surgery can help ensure that patients are satisfied with the results.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after penile implant surgery can be outlined as follows:

Before surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a urologist to discuss erectile dysfunction and potential treatment options.
  2. Patient undergoes a series of assessments and tests to determine if they are a suitable candidate for penile implant surgery.
  3. Patient discusses the different types of penile implants available with their surgeon and chooses the best option for their needs.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparations, including lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, and any necessary medical clearance.
  5. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to insert the penile implant.

After surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home.
  2. Patient follows post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon, including wound care, activity restrictions, and medication management.
  3. Patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the days following surgery.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  5. Patient gradually resumes sexual activity as instructed by their surgeon.
  6. Patient experiences improved erectile function and satisfaction with their sexual performance.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s journey before and after penile implant surgery involves thorough evaluation, careful preparation, and diligent post-operative care to achieve successful outcomes and improve quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about penile implant surgery include:

  1. What type of penile implant will be used (malleable or inflatable) and why?
  2. Will the surgery affect the length or thickness of my penis?
  3. How long is the recovery period after surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  4. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  5. How will the penile implant affect my sexual function and sensation?
  6. Will the penile implant be visible or noticeable to others?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or options for my condition?
  8. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  9. How long will the penile implant last and will it need to be replaced in the future?
  10. Can you provide me with any patient testimonials or references who have undergone this surgery before?

Reference

Authors: Habous M, Giona S, Tealab A, Aziz M, Sherif H, Abdelwahab O, Binsaleh S, Ralph D, Bettocchi C, Mulhall JP, Muir G. Journal: BJU Int. 2019 May;123(5):885-890. doi: 10.1111/bju.14604. Epub 2018 Nov 25. PMID: 30378249