Not every man with congenital penile curvature needs surgery. The procedure is indicated in cases of functional impairment.
Surgery for congenital penile curvature aims to correct penile alignment in selected cases and may contribute to improved sexual function and patient well-being.
There are different surgical techniques, and the choice of procedure depends on each patient’s individual characteristics and needs.
Below, learn more about how surgical correction of congenital curvature works.
Is congenital curvature the same as Peyronie’s disease?
Congenital curvature and Peyronie’s disease are not the same condition. The main difference between them is the origin of the change.
According to an article published by the Cleveland Clinic, congenital curvature occurs due to a developmental issue in penile tissues during pregnancy.
Although it is present from birth, it usually becomes noticeable only during puberty, when erections make the curvature more evident.
Peyronie’s disease, in contrast, is a curvature acquired over the course of life. It is often related to internal scarring in the penis, which may develop after sexual trauma, accidents, or sports-related injuries.
The progression of both conditions is also different. See below:
- Congenital curvature: it usually does not worsen over time and tends to remain stable, without significant progression.
- Peyronie’s disease: it may present distinct phases. In the active or inflammatory phase, there may be pain and an increase in curvature. In the chronic or stable phase, pain usually decreases, but sexual function may be affected.
In both cases, medical evaluation is important to guide the diagnosis and define the most appropriate approach.
In congenital curvature, the condition tends to be stable and, in most cases, does not cause complications. Medical follow-up is recommended mainly when the deviation is more pronounced and there is pain or functional impairment.
In acquired curvature, seeking medical guidance early can help with assessment and with defining follow-up or treatment options.
When is surgical treatment for congenital penile curvature indicated?
Surgical treatment for congenital penile curvature is indicated in cases of more pronounced deviation that affects quality of life.
In these situations, a curved penis may cause discomfort, and the curvature can make penetration difficult or even impossible.
In addition, when congenital curvature is severe, there may be increased stress on the penis during erections. Repeated tension can cause small injuries, and the body may respond by forming scar tissue, known as fibrosis.
Fibrotic tissue can reduce flexibility in the area, which may make an existing curvature more pronounced and uncomfortable.
The goal of the surgical procedure is to seek penile alignment and improve functional conditions when clinically indicated.
What are the main types of surgical treatment?
Surgical techniques for congenital curvature include different methods.
The choice of procedure depends on the degree of curvature and each patient’s individual characteristics.
Below are the main options:
- Penile plication: it adjusts the side opposite the deviation. In other words, the surgeon places sutures on the opposite side of the curvature to shorten the longer side and promote penile alignment. It is indicated for moderate curvatures and when erectile function is preserved.
- Lengthening techniques: the goal is to lengthen the shorter side of the penis, which may involve grafts, depending on the chosen technique. They are indicated for more pronounced curvatures, especially when there is significant length loss.
What are the risks and limitations of surgery?
Surgical treatment for congenital curvature also has limitations, as explained in an article published in the National Library of Medicine.
Researchers analyzed 55 patients who underwent surgery for congenital curvature using the Modified Nesbit Technique, in which the physician uses a clamp to determine the exact correction site.
The study concluded that 3.6% of patients experienced worsening of erectile function after the procedure.
According to the authors, this may occur because the instrument used can cause micro-injuries to penile tissues, leading to fibrosis.
Is surgery always necessary?
No. Treatment for congenital curvature does not always involve surgery.
Management is individualized and is related to the degree of curvature, the presence of pain, and the impact on sexual life.
In milder cases, without pain or functional difficulties, follow-up with a specialist may be sufficient.
Surgical correction of congenital curvature may be indicated when the penile deviation is more pronounced and impacts sexual and psychological well-being.
For this reason, evaluation by a urologist is essential so the patient can receive the most appropriate approach for their case.
Talk to Dr. Paulo Egydio, a urologist who works in penile curvature
Congenital penile curvature can affect intimate life and emotional well-being, and evaluation by a urologist is important to assess whether surgical treatment is needed.
Dr. Paulo Egydio is a urologist who works in the field of penile curvature and provides individualized patient evaluation.
Fill out the pre-analysis form to request an appointment and clarify questions about congenital penile curvature surgery.
Learn more:
Peyronie’s Surgery: Risks and Recommendations
Sex With Peyronie’s Disease: 8 Tips for a More Comfortable Sex Life
Peyronie’s Disease Treatment: What You Need to Know
Penile Fibrosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Penile Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Peyronie’s Disease Treatment: What You Need to Know
