Penile implants can help restore the erection function in males experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED). These are medical devices that are surgically implanted inside the penile. One can resume sexual activity after a few weeks after this surgery.

Penile implants are the option of last resort. Your doctor will suggest you get a penile implantation when other techniques or interventions like ED medicine or vacuum erection devices do not work.

What are penile implants?

Also known as penile prostheses, penile implants are the medical devices that are inserted inside the penile. This procedure is performed by a trained medical surgeon.

For performing this surgical procedure, your surgeon will make an incision to the penile. The incision will be made right below the head of the penile, that is at the base of the penile or around the lower abdomen region.

For placing the implants, the surgeon will stretch the tissues in the penile. The tissues in the penile get filled with blood during erections. These tissues are very spongy. Each of these tissues is in both chambers of the penile, known as corpora cavernosa.

Although erectile dysfunction can be effectively managed with potent ED medicines such as Kamagra, it might not work in some men. When all techniques to restore erection function fail, doctors may recommend this surgery.

Types of penile implants

There are two main types of penile implants, which are given below:

Inflatable penile implants  

This type of implant contains inflatable cylinders. These cylinders are connected to a pump or a reservoir that is filled with fluid. The cylinders will be surgically placed in the shaft of the penile.

To get stronger erections, the individual has to manually operate the pump. It will cause the fluid to make its transition from the reservoir to the cylinders in the penile. The pumping of fluid in the cylinder will fill them and cause them to become inflated.

This will create rigidity in the penile, thereby making it hard and erect suitable for sexual intercourse. After intercourse, the cylinders will deflate, as the valve on the pump will carry the fluid back to the reservoir.  

Inflatable penile implants provide a more controlled method for getting and sustaining erections. Compared to some other treatments for erectile dysfunction, this one is better. Note that this procedure is irreversible. Therefore, before considering it, you must do the necessary research and get to know about the repercussions.

Semi-Rigid (Malleable) Implants

These are very different from inflatable ones. These consist of malleable or semi-rigid bendable rods. These rods are flexible or semi-rigid. They are surgically implanted inside the penile chambers, called corpora cavernosa.  

There is no pump system in these implants. After its implantation, the penile can be manually positioned upward for having sexual intercourse. After sexual activity, the penile can be simply moved downwards for concealment.    

Those who do not prefer inflatable implants or are not medically fit for them will be suggested with these. The decision to go for these requires careful consideration. Before you choose this option, make sure you understand the benefits and risks involved.

Does it restore the erection function permanently?

Penile implants are medical devices used for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in individuals who have not responded to other forms of treatment. This method of ED treatment can fix the erection problems permanently. Inflatable implants are irreversible, whereas semi-rigid ones are reversible to some extent.

Who can get these implants?

Implantation might not be suitable for all. It is typically considered a treatment option for those who have chronic and severe forms of erectile dysfunction (ED). Individuals who have tried all other treatment techniques but have not responded to them can go for this technique.  

The decision to get a penile implant is generally made after careful evaluation by a healthcare professional, often a urologist or a specialist in sexual medicine.

Risks associated with penile implants

Like any other surgical procedure, penile implantation also has several risks and complications. The risks are given below:

• Infection: This might occur after a few days after the procedure. Immediate medical attention is necessary in this case.
• Implant erosion: The erosion of implants into the tissue may occur. In such a case immediate replacement surgery is needed.
• Pain and discomfort: These symptoms are common during the recovery period. However, if the pain persists, you should see your doctor immediately.
• Mechanical failure: There are chances of implant malfunction.
• Bleeding: Requires medical intervention.
• Allergic reaction: The material of the implants can give rise to allergies.
• Difficulty with intercourse: Due to rigidity issues, some might face difficulties during penetration.