Penile Implant: Restoring Erectile Function
About this video
For men whose erectile dysfunction no longer responds to pills, injections, or a vacuum device, a penile implant can restore reliable erections. Dr. Alex Vanni explains who an implant is for, how an inflatable implant works, how to make the decision, what happens during surgery, and what life is like after an implant.
Key points
- An option when pills, injections, or a vacuum device have not worked or cannot be used
- Implants are entirely inside the body; malleable (bendable rods) and inflatable types are available
- An implant creates a firm, reliable erection when you choose; it does not add length
- Placed through one small penoscrotal incision with an antibiotic-coated device
- Infection risk is about 1–2% with modern coated devices
- Over 90% of men are satisfied, and over 75% of devices still work 10 years after surgery
- Sensation, orgasm, and ejaculation are usually unchanged
Chapters
- Introduction
- Who an Implant Is For
- How an Implant Works
- Making the Decision
- The Surgery
- Life After an Implant
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Talk with Dr. Vanni
Dr. Alex J. Vanni is a fellowship-trained reconstructive urologic surgeon at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington, Massachusetts, caring for patients from Boston and across New England.
New patients: (781) 744-8762 · Established patients with clinical questions: (781) 744-8420
This video is for general patient education and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Every patient is different; please talk with your care team about your situation. Watch on YouTube.