The main advantages of a penile prosthesis include restoring penile rigidity, sexual autonomy and improved self-confidence. However, disadvantages such as potential complications can occur. The choice between prosthesis types should be discussed carefully. Learn more!
The idea of undergoing penile surgery can feel ambivalent: while it may make some men feel insecure, the desire for greater pleasure in the heat of the moment usually speaks louder. That is why, before making this decision, it is essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of penile prosthesis.
A prosthesis can help men with erectile dysfunction re-establish penetrative function, often improving sexual quality of life.
Opting for a penile prosthesis means weighing advantages and disadvantages, and everything must be done responsibly. Below, explore the pros and cons so you can make an informed, safe decision for your life.
Types of penile prosthesis
There are two types of penile prostheses: malleable and inflatable. Each has its own features, advantages and disadvantages. Learn more about them below. The malleable penile prosthesis (also called semirigid) consists of flexible silicone rods or similar material. These rods can be bent downward when not in use and manually straightened by the patient whenever he desires an erection.
The inflatable penile prosthesis is composed of inflatable cylinders, a pump and a fluid reservoir. When the patient wants an erection, he activates the pump, which fills the cylinders and creates an erection.
Advantages of a penile prosthesis
A penile prosthesis is designed to provide vertical rigidity to the penis. This rigidity is necessary so the patient can achieve quality penetration without the penis bending or slipping during intercourse. Therefore, the penile implant is intended to treat the patient’s erectile dysfunction.
- Restore penile rigidity and health: regaining rigidity is the primary purpose of a penile prosthesis, allowing the patient to engage in sexual relations normally because, as stated earlier, the prosthesis provides vertical support.
- Avoid medication-based treatments: another advantage is offering the patient the possibility of no longer needing medication treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as pills or penile injections.
- Potential boost in self-confidence: the penile implant allows many patients to report improved self-esteem after surgery, although results may vary depending on individual factors and psychological follow-up.
- Helps prevent Peyronie’s disease: Peyronie’s disease can be prevented because the prosthesis avoids new fibrotic plaques that lead to acquired curvature.
- Resume sexual life: when oral medications no longer work, or the patient already uses injections but wants to stop, the penile prosthesis is the ideal treatment so the man is always ready for the “big moment.” The prosthesis offers autonomy, freedom and security.
Advantages of the malleable prosthesis
Thanks to its characteristics and indications, the malleable prosthesis has some particular advantages:
- Ease of use: once implanted, it requires no external device or complex training to function properly.
- Long service life: this option offers good penile prosthesis durability, serving as a long-term treatment for erectile dysfunction.
- Lower treatment cost: malleable prostheses are provided by the Brazilian public health system (SUS) and have lower maintenance costs over time compared with other treatment lines.
- Lower likelihood of mechanical failure: due to its simpler structure and durable materials, this option tends to present fewer mechanical complications, although re-interventions may be needed in rare cases.
- Good choice for older patients or those with motor limitations: manipulation is simple and straightforward, suitable for patients who lack manual dexterity.
Advantages of the inflatable prosthesis
Because it is inflatable, this penile implant can offer certain specific advantages to patients:
- Controlled erection: because it can inflate, the man has greater control over rigidity and erection duration.
- More natural appearance: it can be inflated and deflated, allowing a flaccid or erect penis whenever desired — in other words, it is discreet.
Disadvantages of a penile prosthesis
Now that you know the advantages of a penile prosthesis, it is time to learn about the disadvantages. Below are the main points to watch for.
- Implant without penile reconstruction: inserting the prosthesis without penile reconstruction can limit results because reconstruction is what allows tissue expansion and recovery of penile length. The prosthesis alone does not increase length or girth.
- Lack of mandatory coverage by health plans: in Brazil, health plans are not required to cover all prosthesis types. According to the National Supplementary Health Agency (ANS), they must cover only malleable models.
Disadvantages of the malleable prosthesis
This model can also present disadvantages that can be managed, such as:
- Constant erection: because there is no inflation/deflation mechanism, the penis remains semirigid all the time, which may cause embarrassment.
- Possible discomfort in daily situations: driving, crossing the legs, sports or even sleeping can initially be uncomfortable due to the constant presence of the prosthesis.
- Necessary adjustments: the patient needs to learn how to manually position the penis for comfort and discretion, especially in the first months after surgery.
Disadvantages of the inflatable prosthesis
The inflatable model also presents some downsides, such as:
- Higher treatment cost: the price of an inflatable prosthesis is significantly higher than that of a malleable one and it is not available through SUS, which can limit treatment access.
- More complex surgery: placement requires greater technical skill. In addition to positioning all components, inflation must be tested before completing the surgery.
- Risk of mechanical failure: the system may leak or malfunction over time, requiring maintenance or even surgical replacement.
- Need for training: the patient must learn to activate the scrotal pump and manage the system correctly, which can be challenging for men with limited dexterity or neuromuscular disorders.
How do I know which prosthesis is right for me?
To determine the best penile prosthesis, consult a urologist or surgeon specialized in male sexual health, such as Dr. Paulo Egydio. The doctor will carry out a complete evaluation. If severe erectile dysfunction is detected, he will consider the patient’s overall health, personal preferences and lifestyle to jointly decide on the best implant, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of penile prosthesis.
Have a pre-analysis with urologist Dr. Paulo Egydio
Dr. Paulo Egydio is committed to patient satisfaction! He has operated on thousands of men and has dedicated more than 25 years to surgical implants, lecturing in Brazil and abroad. His experience will guide you through learning, choice, surgery and adaptation to the penile prosthesis.
Contact us and get initial guidance to regain your sexual life.
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