The ideal penile prosthesis according to Dr. Paulo Egydio is the one that best fits the patient’s needs and preferences, ensuring not only an aligned and erect penis but also a quality sexual life. Learn more.
What is the ideal penile prosthesis according to Dr. Paulo Egydio? This is a frequent question at the EMC clinic, which the doctor answers with honesty, scientific knowledge, and practical experience: it depends.
To facilitate understanding, the doctor often explains the factors to consider when deciding on a penile prosthesis by using a hypothetical scenario where he himself is the patient.
Keep reading to discover the specialist’s opinion!
Who is Dr. Paulo Egydio
Dr. Paulo Egydio is a urologist graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, with a residency at USP’s Faculty of Medicine, two postgraduate courses completed in the United States, and a doctorate completed at USP in 2000.
While studying at USP, he established a clinic dedicated to Peyronie’s Disease at the Hospital das Clínicas—a clinic that operated until 2006. There, he performed surgical treatment for penile curvature, improving a well-known technique based on geometric principles, which was later named Egydio Technique by his peers.
Dr. Paulo Egydio continues his work in penile reconstruction and prosthesis implantation, contributing to countless patients’ quality of life over his career.
Annually, he is invited to conferences and lectures, publishes articles, and is recognized in scientific work.
Learn about the main types of penile prostheses
There are two types of penile prostheses most commonly used by surgeons: inflatable and malleable. Each has characteristics, benefits, and limitations, as outlined below:
Malleable penile prosthesis
The malleable prosthesis is made of silicone covering a flexible metal rod. Durable for penetrative intercourse, it can be manipulated to point downward, upward, or into an erect position as desired.
This prosthesis has its main advantage in durability: it rarely malfunctions. However, since it is inserted with the penis extended, it does not allow for flaccidity, which may cause discomfort for some patients.
Inflatable penile prosthesis
The inflatable penile implant consists of a hydraulic system placed internally. To inflate the prosthesis and achieve an erect state, the patient needs to press a pump located within the scrotum.
It is possible to deflate the prosthesis and achieve a more discreet appearance in daily life. However, this system is delicate and prone to malfunctions, which often require reoperation to replace the implant.
Criteria and aspects considered in choosing the penile prosthesis
The ideal penile prosthesis, according to Dr. Paulo Egydio, should be defined after an attentive and honest conversation between doctor and patient. Here’s what to consider:
Age
Age determines the patient’s life expectancy. The longer the life expectancy, the more advisable it is to choose a prosthesis that lasts as long as possible without needing replacement.
Penile anatomy
It is essential to understand the penile anatomy in detail during preoperative evaluations. Using a Doppler ultrasound, the doctor assesses the depth of fibroses, the degree of deformity, vascularization, and other factors that aid in planning the surgery and selecting the prosthesis.
Lifestyle
Patients with an active lifestyle—usually younger ones—who play sports, go to the beach, and engage in activities where the body is exposed may find penile volume a point of pride or discomfort.
The malleable prosthesis, which leaves the penis extended, also makes it more voluminous and visible under clothing. The inflatable prosthesis tends to be more discreet.
Extent of fibrosis
Generalized fibrosis, with significant penile shortening and loss of girth, limits the expansion of the inflatable implant. Without enough space, the prosthesis will not provide the necessary rigidity for penetration.
Hand strength
The activation of the inflatable penile prosthesis requires squeezing the pump in the scrotum to release the saline solution that fills the cylinders.
Men with hand issues, such as Parkinson’s disease or deformities, who cannot operate the mechanism, are better candidates for the malleable model.
Cost
The cost is a deciding factor for most patients. The malleable prosthesis is the more affordable option and is even available through public healthcare.
The inflatable model, however, can cost over R$20,000 (excluding medical expenses) and is rarely covered by health insurance, making it inaccessible for many.
What would Dr. Paulo Egydio choose?
The ideal penile prosthesis for Dr. Paulo Egydio must fit his reality.
Considering his situation: the doctor has a life expectancy of 20–30 years. Although he fits several scenarios where the inflatable penile prosthesis would be appropriate, he values avoiding reoperations at an advanced age. For this reason, the prosthesis Dr. Paulo Egydio would choose for himself is the malleable type, preferably with a titanium alloy, which is even more durable.
He would wear tighter underwear to conceal the volume.
And what is the best penile prosthesis for me?
Choosing a penile prosthesis is only possible after a careful evaluation and an open discussion with a penile prosthesis specialist, aligning expectations and understanding the pros and cons of each type.
A good relationship between doctor and patient is key to ensuring a positive experience regarding sexual life after the procedure.
The doctor can even assist during the adjustment period, helping the patient feel more comfortable in early sexual experiences with the prosthesis.
As you can see, the ideal penile prosthesis according to Dr. Paulo Egydio does not exist. There is only a prosthesis that best suits the individual’s needs, considering various factors. Satisfaction with the procedure heavily depends on this personalization, which involves collaboration between doctor and patient.
If you are unsure about which prosthesis to choose, complete a pre-analysis with Dr. Paulo and start discussing your options. Within 24 hours, you will receive a personalized message detailing the next steps for your specific treatment. Take care!
Read also
- What is penile fracture?
- Surgery for Peyronie’s Disease: Risks and Recommendations
- Egydio’s Technique: Peyronie Disease Treatment
- Does the Egydio Technique Work for Every Penile Curvature?
- Implante de Prótese Peniana | Dr. Paulo Egydio
- Does Small Penis Exist? Check When Size Is a Concern
- 7 Simple Habits to Prevent Prostate Cancer
- Can People with a Penile Prosthesis Play Sports?
- How to Enlarge the Penis: Understanding the Options
- 6 Causes of Penis Fissures: Treatments and Care Tips
