Penile implants are a surgical treatment option for erectile dysfunction. These procedures involve the insertion of malleable or inflatable rods into the penis. Penile implants may be recommended for patients when other less invasive treatment options for erectile dysfunction have not been successful.
There are three forms of penile implants: semi-rigid prostheses, inflatable prostheses and self-contained prostheses.
Penile implants are performed as outpatient surgical procedures. The implants are inserted through an incision made in the penis, lower abdomen or scrotum. A thin flexible tube (catheter) is inserted briefly up the urethra and into the bladder to drain urine. Patients will typically remain in the hospital for one to two days following their surgery. A urinary catheter will be used for one day and antibiotics will be prescribed for two weeks after surgery to prevent infection.
Men are advised to not wear tight underwear or clothing until their surgical incision has healed. For those with inflatable implants, tight clothing should be avoided for up to six weeks to avoid pushing the saline reservoir out of position. Strenuous physical activity and sex can resume one month after the surgery. Penile implants are typically very successful surgical procedures.
View more information on penile implants, as well as stories from actual patients and couples »
Board-certified urologists staff The Men’s Clinic at UCLA and you can be assured you are getting an experienced physician performing your evaluation and procedure in a relaxed and comfortable environment. For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call the UCLA Urology Appointment line at (310) 794-7700.
