This procedure is carried out by inserting a device into the penis to enable an erection. There are two types of penile implant surgery – in the first, inflatable implants, inflatable cylinders are placed inside the penis, a fluid-filled reservoir is placed in the abdomen, and a pump is positioned in the scrotum. The second procedure type, semi-rigid implants, involves inserting bendable rods into the penis.

This procedure can restore sexual function and satisfaction by helping men with erectile dysfunction to achieve and maintain their erection, improving sexual function and satisfaction. It does not increase the width or size of the penis. It can offer a long-term solution to erectile dysfunction in cases where other treatments such as medication or vacuum devices have not delivered the desired results.

The success rate of this surgery is high, and many patients state that they’re satisfied with the outcome after treatment.

All kinds of surgical procedure carry some element of risk. While the risks associated with penile implants are low, they can include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Pain or discomfort
• Mechanical failure of the implant
• Erosion of the implant through the skin
• Damage to the bladder or bowel
• Floppiness or drooping of the head

Your surgeon will take all required precautions to minimise risks and reduce the likelihood of complications.

Penile implant surgery is typically performed under general anaesthetic, and so you’ll be asleep while the procedure takes place and won’t feel anything. Depending on the type of implant and your specific anatomy, your surgeon will make an incision at the base of the penis, in the lower abdomen or in the scrotum before inserting the implant. The incisions are then closed to conclude the implant procedure.

The surgery normally takes between 1 to 3 hours to perform, depending on how complex the procedure is and the type of implant being used. You will not be able to drive yourself home after the procedure and should arrange for someone to do this instead.

If you find it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection and it is affecting your sex life or your relationship, or if you have a penis which is bent, you might consider penile implant surgery.

Several different factors will help to determine if this type of surgery will help achieve the outcome that you’re looking for. At your consultation, your surgeon will carefully evaluate your symptoms, your medical history and your overall health, taking into account the severity of your erectile dysfunction, your age and any existing medical conditions.

Following your penile implant procedure, you should rest to give your body the best opportunity to heal. You can expect to have some swelling and bruising, and you may have a catheter and/or drain in place for the first night after surgery. Any discomfort you experience can be managed with pain relief such as paracetamol.

Although you may carry out your daily activities when you feel able to do so, you should factor in that you will probably have to take about a week off work, though this will depend on how physical your role is. Your surgeon will be able to give you guidance on this. You should avoid heavy lifting, sexual activity and any kind strenuous exercise for this period too.

Look after your wound by keeping the surgical site clean and dry to help prevent infection. Wear snug underwear or a compression garment and keep your penis pointed upwards towards your abdomen to help with healing.

Make sure that you attend your follow-up appointments as scheduled so that your progress can be monitored and any concerns you have can be addressed.