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Penile Implant (Penile Prosthesis) – A Lasting Solution for Erectile Dysfunction at Minnerva Clinic

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can significantly impact a man's quality of life, self-esteem, and intimate relationships. When conservative treatments such as oral medications, injections, or vacuum devices prove ineffective or unsuitable, a penile implant (also known as a penile prosthesis) offers a highly effective and permanent surgical solution. This medical device is surgically placed entirely within the penis and scrotum, allowing men to achieve erections on demand.

At Minnerva Clinic, our experienced urologists specialize in penile implant surgery, providing discreet and expert care. Our dedicated urological team understands the sensitive nature of ED and is committed to helping men regain sexual function and confidence through advanced penile prosthesis implantation, offering a reliable and satisfying long-term solution.

Understanding Severe Erectile Dysfunction & How Penile Implants Restore Erectile Function

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual intercourse. While often treatable with simpler methods, some men experience severe or refractory ED due to:

Underlying Medical Conditions: Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders (such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury), and Peyronie's disease.
Post-Surgical Complications: Following radical prostatectomy (prostate cancer surgery) or other pelvic surgeries that may damage nerves or blood vessels.
Failure of or Intolerance to Other ED Treatments: When oral medications (PDE5 inhibitors), penile injections (such as Alprostadil), or vacuum erection devices are ineffective, cause intolerable side effects, or are not preferred by the patient.
Psychological Factors: While psychological factors often play a role, severe ED may have a primary physical basis that doesn't respond to psychological therapies alone.

How Penile Implants (Penile Prostheses) Work

A penile implant is a surgically implanted medical device designed to mimic the mechanism of a natural erection. There are two main types:

Inflatable Penile Prosthesis (IPP - Most Common Type)

This device consists of three components connected by tubing:

Two Cylinders: Implanted inside the erectile chambers (corpora cavernosa) of the penis
A Pump: Placed discreetly inside the scrotum
A Reservoir: Filled with sterile saline solution, placed in the lower abdomen

How it Works: When an erection is desired, the man squeezes the pump in the scrotum several times. This transfers saline from the reservoir into the cylinders in the penis, causing them to inflate and create a firm erection. To return to a flaccid state, a deflation valve on the pump is pressed, allowing the saline to flow back into the reservoir. This type provides a more natural-feeling erection and flaccidity.

Malleable (Non-Inflatable) Penile Prosthesis

This device consists of two bendable rods that are implanted into the erectile chambers of the penis.

How it Works: The penis remains semi-rigid at all times. For intercourse, the man simply bends the penis upward into an erect position. When not in use, it can be bent downward for concealment. This is a simpler device with fewer mechanical parts but provides a permanently firm penis.

Penile implant surgery aims to:

Provide a reliable and predictable way to achieve an erection suitable for intercourse
Offer a permanent, long-term solution for severe or treatment-resistant ED
Restore sexual function and intimacy
Improve the quality of life and self-confidence for men with ED
Feel and appear natural when erect (especially with inflatable devices)

Key Advantages of Choosing Penile Implant Surgery at Minnerva Clinic

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Highly Effective & Reliable for Achieving Erections: Provides a dependable, on-demand erection, often considered the "gold standard" for refractory ED.

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Permanent, Long-Term Solution: Offers a lasting answer to ED, unlike medications or injections that require ongoing use.

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Spontaneous Intimacy Possible: Allows for erections whenever desired, without the need for pre-planning with medications.

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Natural Sensation & Orgasm Unaffected: The implant does not interfere with skin sensation on the penis or the ability to achieve orgasm or ejaculate (if these were normal before surgery).

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Concealed Entirely Within the Body: The device is not visible externally, providing complete discretion.

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High Patient & Partner Satisfaction Rates: Studies consistently show high satisfaction rates among men and their partners after penile implant surgery.

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Restores Sexual Confidence & Intimacy: Can significantly improve quality of life and relationship satisfaction.

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Performed by Specialized Urologists: Ensures expert surgical technique and management of this specific prosthesis.

Is a Penile Implant the Optimal Choice for Your Erectile Dysfunction?

Penile implant surgery is a definitive treatment for erectile dysfunction and is typically considered when other less invasive treatments have failed or are contraindicated. This surgical option might be right for you if:

→You have persistent, severe erectile dysfunction that significantly impacts your sexual life and well-being.
→You have tried other ED treatments (such as oral medications, penile injections, or vacuum erection devices) and found them ineffective, unsuitable due to side effects, or undesirable for long-term use.
→You have ED resulting from medical conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, post-prostatectomy nerve damage, or spinal cord injury.
→You desire a permanent, reliable, and spontaneous solution for achieving erections.
→You are in good general health to undergo surgery and anesthesia.
→You (and your partner, if applicable) have realistic expectations about the procedure, recovery, and what the implant can and cannot do (it restores erectile function but doesn't typically increase penis length or treat libido issues).
→You are willing to undergo a surgical procedure and adhere to post-operative care instructions.

A thorough consultation at Minnerva Clinic with our urology specialists is crucial. We will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a review of your medical and sexual history, discuss previous ED treatments, perform an examination, and help you understand if a penile implant is the most appropriate and beneficial solution for your specific situation.

Your Penile Implant Journey: A Path to Restored Sexual Function at Minnerva Clinic

We are committed to providing expert urological surgery and compassionate, discreet care throughout your penile implant experience at Minnerva Clinic. Here's a general overview of what your surgical journey typically involves:

Step in Your Journey	Details of What Happens at Minnerva Clinic
1. Comprehensive Urological & Surgical Consultation	Your journey begins with an in-depth consultation with our urologist specializing in penile implants. We will discuss your history of ED, previous treatments, sexual goals, perform a physical examination, and explain the types of penile implants (inflatable vs. malleable), the surgical procedure, anesthesia, potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
2. Pre-Operative Preparations & Evaluation	You will receive detailed pre-operative instructions. This may include stopping certain medications (such as blood thinners), taking pre-operative antibiotics, smoking cessation, fasting before surgery, and arranging for transportation and post-operative support. Pre-operative medical clearance will be required.
3. The Penile Implant Surgical Procedure	The surgery is performed in an accredited hospital or surgical facility under general or spinal anesthesia. Incisions are typically made in the scrotum, at the base of the penis (penoscrotal), or in the lower abdomen (infrapubic). The surgeon carefully places the components: cylinders into the erectile chambers (corpora cavernosa) of the penis, the pump into the scrotum (for inflatable devices), and the reservoir into the lower abdomen (for 3-piece inflatable devices). The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
4. Immediate Post-Operative Care & Hospital Stay	After surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area. A dressing and scrotal support will be applied. A urinary catheter may be placed temporarily. You will experience pain, swelling, and bruising in the penis, scrotum, and groin, which will be managed with pain medication. You will likely stay overnight in the hospital for observation, pain control, and initial recovery.
5. Recovery and Healing at Home	The initial recovery period involves rest and restricted activity. Swelling and bruising are most prominent for the first 1-2 weeks and gradually subside. Scrotal support is worn continuously. Pain medication will be needed. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sexual activity for about 4-6 weeks.
6. Device Activation & Learning to Use (for Inflatable Implants)	About 4-6 weeks after surgery, once initial healing has occurred and swelling has significantly reduced, your urologist will guide you on how to activate and use your inflatable penile implant (cycling the pump). It may take some practice to become proficient.
7. Gradual Return to Sexual Activity & Long-Term Function	Most men can resume sexual activity about 4-6 weeks after surgery, once cleared by their urologist and comfortable using the device. The implant provides a reliable erection on demand.

👉 Explore Penile Implant Solutions for ED with Our Urologists →

Why Trust Minnerva Clinic for Your Penile Implant Surgery?

✔️Highly Experienced Urologists Specializing in Penile Prosthesis: Your surgery will be performed by our board-certified urologists who have specialized training and extensive experience in penile implant surgery, ensuring optimal placement and functional outcomes.
✔️Expertise in Different Types of Implants (Inflatable & Malleable): We offer and are proficient in implanting various types of penile prostheses, allowing us to recommend the best device for your individual needs, lifestyle, and manual dexterity.
✔️Focus on Achieving High Patient & Partner Satisfaction: We are dedicated to providing a solution that restores sexual function effectively and leads to a high degree of satisfaction for both you and your partner.
✔️Commitment to Patient Safety in an Accredited Surgical Facility: All penile implant surgeries are performed in a state-of-the-art hospital or surgical center, adhering to the strictest standards of patient safety, anesthesia care, and infection control.
✔️Comprehensive Pre-Operative Counseling & Post-Operative Support: We provide thorough education about the implant, realistic expectations, and dedicated follow-up care, including training on how to use inflatable devices.
✔️Discreet, Compassionate, and Respectful Care: We understand the sensitive nature of erectile dysfunction and provide all consultations and treatments in a private, supportive, and non-judgmental environment.

Penile Implant Results & Aftercare: Regaining Confidence and Intimacy

Seeing Your Results (Functional Restoration)

The primary result of penile implant surgery is the ability to achieve a firm erection on demand, suitable for sexual intercourse.

Inflatable Implants: You will be able to control when you have an erection by using the pump. When deflated, the penis appears flaccid and natural. When inflated, it provides excellent rigidity.
Malleable Implants: The penis will remain semi-rigid, allowing it to be manually positioned for intercourse or bent down for concealment.

It typically takes about 4-6 weeks for initial healing and swelling to subside sufficiently before you can be trained to use an inflatable implant and resume sexual activity. The final aesthetic appearance, with minimal visible scarring, will develop over several months.

How Long Do Results Last? (Device Longevity)

Penile implants are mechanical devices and, like any such device, they can eventually wear out or experience mechanical failure over time. Modern penile implants are very durable, and many last for 10-15 years or even longer. However, revision surgery to replace or repair a component may be needed at some point during a man's lifetime.

Essential Aftercare

Follow All Surgeon's Instructions Meticulously: This is crucial for a successful outcome and to minimize complications.
Pain Management: Take prescribed pain medication as directed to manage post-operative discomfort.
Scrotal Support & Dressings: Wear scrotal support (jockstrap) as recommended. Keep incision sites clean and dry as per instructions.
Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for at least 4-6 weeks, or as advised by your urologist.
Device Cycling (for Inflatable Implants): Once cleared by your surgeon (usually around 4-6 weeks post-op), begin practicing inflating and deflating your device regularly as instructed. This helps the tissues around the implant stretch and accommodate the device, ensuring optimal function.
Monitor for Complications: Watch for signs of infection (fever, increasing pain, redness, swelling, incision discharge), device malfunction, or persistent, severe pain. Contact your urologist promptly if you have any concerns.
No Smoking: Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of infection.
Long-Term Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your urologist to monitor device function and overall satisfaction.

Your urologist will provide comprehensive, personalized aftercare instructions.

Penile Implant FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Q1: Is penile implant surgery painful?

A: The surgery is performed under anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Significant post-operative pain, swelling, and bruising in the penis, scrotum, and groin are expected for several days to weeks. This is typically well-managed with prescribed pain medication.

Q2: How long does penile implant surgery take?

A: The surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete, depending on the type of implant and complexity of the case.

Q3: Will a penile implant make my penis larger?

A: A penile implant is designed to restore the ability to achieve an erection to the penis's natural, pre-ED erect size. It does not typically increase the flaccid or erect length or girth beyond what is natural for you. Some men may perceive a slight increase due to optimal rigidity, but enlargement is not the primary goal.

Q4: Will my erection look and feel natural with an implant?

A: Inflatable implants are designed to provide an erection that looks and feels very natural, both to you and your partner. The penis becomes flaccid when deflated. When inflated, it provides excellent rigidity. Sensation on the skin of the penis and the ability to have an orgasm and ejaculate are generally not affected by the implant itself (if they were normal pre-surgery).

Q5: How long do penile implants last? Will I need another surgery?

A: Penile implants are durable medical devices that are not guaranteed to last a lifetime. Many have lasted 10-15 years or more. Like any mechanical device, they can wear out or malfunction, potentially requiring revision or replacement surgery at some point.

Q6: What are the different types of penile implants?

A: The two main types are inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs) (either 2-piece or 3-piece, with 3-piece being most common and providing the best flaccidity/rigidity) and malleable (non-inflatable) penile prostheses. Your urologist will discuss which type is best suited for you.

Q7: What are the risks or complications of penile implant surgery?

A: Potential risks include infection (the most serious concern, sometimes requiring implant removal), pain, device malfunction or mechanical failure, erosion of a component through the skin, injury to the urethra, scrotal hematoma, or changes in penile sensation. Choosing an experienced implant surgeon and strictly following post-operative instructions minimizes these risks.

Q8: When can I resume sexual activity after penile implant surgery?

A: Most men can resume sexual activity about 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, once initial healing is complete, swelling has significantly subsided, and their urologist has cleared them and are comfortable using the device (if inflatable).

Q9: Will my partner be able to tell I have a penile implant?

A: When the penis is flaccid (with an inflatable implant), the device is entirely concealed within the body and usually not noticeable. The pump in the scrotum is small and discreet. When erect, the penis should look and feel natural. Malleable implants keep the penis semi-rigid, which might be more noticeable.

Q10: Who is a good candidate for a penile implant?

A: Good candidates are men with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction who have not had success with, or are not suitable for, other ED treatments (such as pills or injections), are in good general health for surgery, and have realistic expectations. It's often considered for men with ED due to diabetes, prostate cancer treatment, vascular disease, or spinal cord injuries.

Ready to Reclaim Your Sexual Function and Confidence with a Lasting ED Solution?

If you are struggling with severe or treatment-resistant erectile dysfunction, penile implant surgery at Minnerva Clinic offers a highly effective and reliable path to restoring intimacy and sexual satisfaction. Our specialized urologists are dedicated to providing expert surgical care and compassionate support.

Book your confidential penile implant consultation at Minnerva Clinic today to discuss your needs and explore if this transformative procedure is right for you.