Penile Prosthesis Lifespan: How Long Does It Last?

The inflatable penile prosthesis lifespan is 10 to 15 years, while the malleable model lasts from 5 years. Learn more about lifespan and maintenance.

A man considering the implant wants to know how long a penile prosthesis lasts, and also has questions about maintenance and whether it needs to be replaced.

The penile prosthesis surgery aims to restore erectile function in specific cases, potentially improving some patients’ quality of life.

Continue reading and clear up your doubts about the lifespan of inflatable and malleable prostheses.

How long does a penile prosthesis last?

It is impossible to pinpoint the exact penile prosthesis lifespan, since it depends on the chosen model, the materials used and even the surgeon’s experience.

Studies suggest that the malleable prosthesis can exceed 10 years of use, with lower mechanical complexity and, in some cases, a lower revision rate compared with the inflatable type.

The inflatable prosthesis may have a shorter lifespan due to its more complex mechanism, which is subject to wear.

Average durability of the inflatable prosthesis

The inflatable prosthesis shows an estimated durability of 10 to 15 years. However, advances in both the device and surgical techniques help extend its useful life.

A literature review that analyzed 12 studies involving 20,161 patients revealed inflatable prosthesis survival rates of 76.8% after 10 years, 63.7% after 15 years and 52.9% after 20 years of implantation.

Nevertheless, some situations may require penile prosthesis replacement. One example is when the prosthesis was implanted without fully correcting the anatomical changes of Peyronie’s disease, such as curvature and tapering.

Other factors that can lead to device replacement are glans flaccidity or rupture, lack of postoperative follow‑up and difficulty adapting.

How long does a semirigid (malleable) penile prosthesis last?

Studies show that the semirigid prosthesis lasts between 5 and 10 years.

The malleable prosthesis, also called semirigid, was first described in 1973. According to this review article, its survival rate is 88.8% after 5 years and 84.3% after 10 years.

Factors that influence penile prosthesis lifespan

The lifespan of a penile prosthesis depends on factors such as the type and quality of the material.

In addition, the implant specialist’s experience is fundamental, because an experienced professional will know how to choose the prosthesis suited to the patient’s anatomy.

Another aspect that highlights the importance of medical expertise is Peyronie’s disease. In this condition, the prosthesis implant must be accompanied by penile reconstruction; failing to correct curvature or tapering can significantly compromise the functional and aesthetic result, affecting the penile prosthesis lifespan.

Type and quality of material

The materials used in semirigid prostheses ensure resistance to mechanical stress, allowing the device to withstand the handling needed to position it for erection and then return it to the resting position. Components such as silver or stainless steel help prevent deformation, while the silicone coating provides anatomical comfort.

Inflatable prostheses are made of high‑strength silicone, which offers durability. The scrotal pump and reservoir are produced with flexible, durable materials to prolong the device’s lifespan.

In both types, manufacturers apply antimicrobial coatings, such as silver‑ion layers, to reduce infection risk. This is crucial because infections are among the main causes of early prosthesis replacement.

Surgeon experience

Surgeon experience can influence the proper choice of prosthesis type, surgical technique and postoperative follow‑up. Specialists in penile prosthesis surgery are better prepared to evaluate the case and recommend the option most compatible with the patient’s anatomy and function.

Besides choosing the prosthesis type, a knowledgeable physician understands that, in Peyronie’s disease, the implant should be combined with penile reconstruction. Correcting curvature and tapering is essential for functional and aesthetic outcomes.

In some cases, patients may have associated emotional issues, such as anxiety or insecurity. Psychological support can be considered as part of a multidisciplinary approach.

Anatomy and penile reconstruction

To ensure penile prosthesis durability, it is crucial to consider penile anatomy and adopt personalized strategies.

For longer penises, for example, prostheses with compatible diameters are needed, because very thin cylinders may not be sufficiently firm, increasing the risk of bending during intercourse.

When the penis is thin and cannot support a larger diameter implant, penile reconstruction may be indicated. This procedure involves relaxing incisions in the tunica albuginea, the penis’s inner layer. The cuts relax the tissue, allowing expansion for a wider prosthesis.

Patient lifestyle

The answer to how long a penile prosthesis lasts also includes lifestyle and usage habits.

With the semirigid prosthesis, how the man accommodates it in his underwear can affect device integrity. With the inflatable prosthesis, excessive force when pumping or handling the cylinders can wear the components faster.

Technology applied to the model

The evolution of penile prostheses in recent years is due to the materials used in manufacturing. These improvements provide vertical firmness with comfort and flexibility for daily movements.

For the malleable prosthesis, for example, the core may be silver or stainless steel, materials known for strength.

The inflatable prosthesis is produced with high‑strength silicone. In advanced models, the cylinders receive polyurethane layers to reduce leakage risk, one of the most common failures of this model.

Some models include antimicrobial coatings aimed at reducing infection risk.

Is there maintenance for a penile prosthesis?

Maintenance recommendations vary according to the model.

With the inflatable prosthesis, signs such as difficulty inflating or deflating, pump lock, fluid leakage, pain or loss of rigidity during intercourse should be reported to the doctor. These symptoms indicate the need for assessment, which may result in maintenance or even replacement. If replacement is needed, check the prosthesis warranty conditions.

In the malleable prosthesis, maintenance is usually indicated when the patient has difficulty positioning it, continuous discomfort or signs of rod fracture. Although rare, this can occur when the prosthesis is not manipulated at the penis base.

Postoperative care and medical follow‑up

Postoperative care includes attending follow‑up appointments, taking prescribed painkillers correctly and following the schedule set by the physician.

Return to work usually occurs between 5 and 10 days; men performing physically demanding jobs should wait longer.

More intense physical activity and sexual intercourse can typically resume 30 days after surgery, depending on healing and always under medical guidance.

Possible complications and prevention

Infections are among the most common postoperative complications and generally arise from inadequate wound hygiene. Redness, swelling, severe pain and discharge indicate infection. Keeping the area clean and dry as instructed is essential.

Hematomas and heavy bleeding can also occur. Early return to physical activities and sex compromises healing and may cause serious complications.

Therefore, following medical prescriptions is crucial. Otherwise, serious infections or malfunctions may require the doctor to evaluate when to replace the prosthesis.

How much does a permanent penile prosthesis cost?

A Brazilian‑made malleable prosthesis costs between R$2,000 and R$5,000. Imported models range from US$1,200 to US$2,000.

The inflatable prosthesis, generally made in the United States, is more expensive, between US$8,000 and US$15,000.

What is life like with a penile prosthesis implant?

The prosthesis aims to restore penile rigidity in indicated cases, helping some patients resume an active sexual life. Penis sensitivity and orgasm ability remain unchanged, because the implant does not affect the nerves responsible for pleasure.

In appearance, the malleable prosthesis keeps the penis semirigid at all times, but the man can position it up or down as desired. The inflatable prosthesis offers a more natural look, as the penis becomes rigid only when the pump is activated.

Physical and psychological adaptation

Adapting to the prosthesis involves physical and emotional aspects.

Physically, most men return to sexual activity within 4–6 weeks. The semirigid user learns to adjust the penis, while the inflatable user masters activating the pump.

Psychological adjustment varies with individual history, degree of erectile dysfunction before the prosthesis and expectation level.

While some men report increased self‑confidence, others may need psychological support to fully adapt to the prosthesis.

Sexual satisfaction and self‑esteem

Sexual experience after implantation depends on physical, emotional and relational factors.

Men with erectile dysfunction who did not respond to conventional treatment usually regain self‑esteem when they can achieve satisfactory rigidity.

With firm erections, performance anxiety tends to decrease, boosting self‑confidence. Together, these factors can make sex more pleasurable and even intensify orgasm.

Patient reports and long‑term benefits

Although medical ethics prohibit displaying patient testimonials, most report satisfaction with the prosthesis.

In Dr. Paulo’s 25‑plus years of experience, men point to the benefits of a penile prosthesis: restored self‑esteem, renewed sexual confidence and improved relationships, all positively affecting mental health and overall well‑being.

Get a pre‑assessment with Dr. Paulo Egydio and discover the best prosthesis for your case

The Dr. Paulo Egydio is a penile prosthesis specialist with over 6,000 surgeries performed, offering the technical knowledge needed for personalized care.

Start your pre‑assessment today and receive Dr. Paulo’s response by email within 24 hours.

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How long does a semirigid (malleable) penile prosthesis last?