Frequently Asked Questions About Peyronie's Disease Treatment
Answers from Dr. Alex J. Vanni — Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, MA
What is Peyronie's disease?
Peyronie's disease is a condition where scar tissue (plaque) forms inside the penis, causing curvature, pain, shortening, and sometimes erectile dysfunction. The curvature typically occurs during erection and can make sexual intercourse difficult or impossible.
What causes Peyronie's disease?
The exact cause is unclear, but it's believed to result from repetitive minor trauma to the penis during intercourse or physical activity. Some men have a genetic predisposition. Risk factors include age, smoking, diabetes, and certain medications.
Will Peyronie's disease go away on its own?
Some cases stabilize or improve spontaneously, especially in the acute phase (first 6-12 months). However, most cases persist or worsen without treatment. Early consultation helps determine the best treatment approach and timing.
When should I consider surgery for Peyronie's disease?
Surgery is typically recommended when the disease has stabilized (no changes for 3-6 months), curvature prevents intercourse, or erectile function is significantly impaired. The timing depends on your specific symptoms and goals.
What are the surgical options for Peyronie's disease?
Options include plication procedures (shortening the longer side), plaque excision with grafting (lengthening the shorter side), and penile prosthesis implantation (for men with erectile dysfunction). The best option depends on curvature severity, penile length, and erectile function.
Will surgery straighten my penis completely?
Most surgical techniques achieve significant straightening, though some residual curvature (typically less than 15-20 degrees) may remain. The goal is functional straightness that allows comfortable intercourse. Complete straightness isn't always achievable without compromising other aspects of function.
Can Peyronie's disease affect my ability to have children?
Peyronie's disease itself doesn't affect fertility or sperm production. However, severe curvature can make penetration difficult or impossible. Surgical correction can restore the ability to have intercourse.
How long does Peyronie's disease surgery take?
Surgery for Peyronie's disease typically takes 1–3 hours, depending on the procedure. Plication is generally shorter, while plaque excision with grafting takes longer due to the additional reconstruction involved.
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