Penile Implants (Penile Prosthesis Surgery)
Expert Surgical Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
Penile implant surgery, also known as penile prosthesis implantation, is a highly effective surgical treatment for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) who do not respond to medical or injection therapies. Penile implants provide reliable rigidity, restore sexual function, and offer high patient satisfaction when performed by experienced reconstructive surgeons.
Dr. Alex J. Vanni is a nationally recognized reconstructive urologist with extensive experience in primary and complex penile implant surgery, including cases associated with prior pelvic surgery, radiation therapy, Peyronie's disease, and urethral reconstruction. Patients are referred nationally for his expertise in achieving durable functional outcomes.
What Is a Penile Implant?
A penile implant is a surgically implanted medical device placed inside the penis to allow a man to achieve an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Unlike medications, implants work independently of blood flow or nerve function, making them a definitive solution for many forms of erectile dysfunction.
Penile implants are completely concealed within the body and do not affect sensation, orgasm, or ejaculation (when otherwise intact).
Who Is a Candidate for Penile Implant Surgery?
Penile prosthesis surgery may be appropriate for men with ED due to:
- Failure or intolerance of oral medications or injections
- Erectile dysfunction after prostate surgery
- Erectile dysfunction after pelvic radiation
- Diabetes-related erectile dysfunction
- Erectile dysfunction associated with Peyronie's disease
- Neurogenic erectile dysfunction
A careful evaluation ensures that implant surgery is appropriate and tailored to individual anatomy and goals.
What Are the Types of Penile Implants?
Inflatable Penile Prosthesis (IPP)
The three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis is the most commonly used penile implant and offers the most natural appearance and function.
Key Features:
- Inflatable cylinders placed in the penis
- Pump placed discreetly in the scrotum
- Fluid reservoir placed in the pelvis
- Erection and deflation controlled by the patient
This device provides excellent rigidity for intercourse and a natural flaccid state when deflated.
Malleable (Semi-Rigid) Penile Prosthesis
Malleable implants consist of bendable rods placed in the penis.
Key Features:
- Simpler mechanical design
- Constant firmness, manually positioned for intercourse
- May be appropriate in select medical or anatomic situations
Device selection depends on patient preference, anatomy, and clinical considerations.
Penile Implants and Peyronie's Disease
Men with Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction may benefit from penile implant surgery, which can both restore rigidity and correct curvature. Additional straightening maneuvers may be performed at the time of implantation to optimize penile alignment and function.
Experience in reconstructive techniques is critical in these complex cases.
What Can I Expect from Penile Implant Surgery and Recovery?
What to Expect
Penile implant surgery is typically performed under general or regional anesthesia. Most patients:
- Are discharged the same day or after an overnight stay
- Resume light activity within days
- Begin device cycling after healing
- Return to sexual activity after appropriate recovery
Your surgeon will provide detailed postoperative instructions to optimize healing and long-term success.
Why Experience Matters in Penile Implant Surgery
Penile prosthesis surgery requires:
- Precise surgical technique
- Careful device selection and sizing
- Experience managing prior pelvic surgery, radiation, or scarring
High-volume reconstructive expertise reduces complications and improves functional outcomes, particularly in complex or revision cases.
Dr. Vanni's approach emphasizes durability, patient safety, and long-term satisfaction, with careful attention to both functional and quality-of-life outcomes.
National Referral Center for Penile Prosthesis Surgery
Men with complex erectile dysfunction or prior failed treatments are referred nationally to Dr. Vanni for expert evaluation and definitive management. He works closely with referring physicians to ensure coordinated care and clear communication.
Have Questions About Penile Implants?
Get answers to the most common questions about penile implants treatment, surgery, and recovery.
View Frequently Asked QuestionsPenile implant surgery outcomes reported in peer-reviewed literature consistently demonstrate high long-term satisfaction rates, and Dr. Vanni's results are consistent with the best published evidence.
Treatment Outcomes at a Glance
Success Rate
90–95% patient satisfaction rate
Surgery Duration
Approximately 1 hour, performed as an outpatient procedure
Recovery
Implant usable approximately 4 weeks after surgery
Schedule a Consultation
If erectile dysfunction is affecting your quality of life and relationships, expert evaluation can help determine if penile implant surgery is the right solution for you.