Can penile reconstruction be performed after trauma or injury to the penis?

Yes, penile reconstruction can be performed after trauma or injury to the penis. The goal of penile reconstruction is to create a functional and cosmetically acceptable penis. This may involve a variety of surgical procedures, depending on the extent of the injury.

Types of penile reconstruction

There are two main types of penile reconstruction:

• Phalloplasty: This is the most complex type of penile reconstruction and is typically performed for complete or partial amputation of the penis. Phalloplasty involves creating a new penis using tissue from other parts of the body, such as the forearm, thigh, or abdomen.
• Urethroplasty: This type of penile reconstruction is performed to repair or replace the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Urethroplasty may be performed for a variety of conditions, including traumatic injuries, congenital defects, and strictures.

Which type of penile reconstruction is right for you?

The type of penile reconstruction that is right for you will depend on the extent of your injury, your overall health, and your goals for surgery. It is important to discuss your options with a urologist or plastic surgeon who specializes in penile reconstruction.

Success rates of penile reconstruction

The success rates of penile reconstruction vary depending on the type of procedure performed and the extent of the injury. However, most patients are able to achieve a functional and cosmetically acceptable penis after surgery.

Recovery from penile reconstruction

Recovery from penile reconstruction can be a long and challenging process. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and to be patient. Most patients will need to wear a catheter for several weeks after surgery to allow the urethra to heal. They may also need to avoid sexual activity for several months.

Penile reconstruction surgeries, such as phalloplasty and metoidioplasty, are primarily performed for gender-affirming purposes in transgender and gender-diverse individuals who experience gender dysphoria related to their existing genitalia. These surgeries are designed to create a neophallus (newly constructed penis) that aligns with the individual’s gender identity. They are not typically performed as a response to trauma or injury to the penis in cisgender individuals.

In cases of penile trauma or injury in cisgender individuals, medical treatment and surgical interventions may be necessary to address the specific injury, restore function, and minimize complications. The approach to penile trauma or injury varies depending on the nature and severity of the injury, and it may involve techniques such as surgical repair, tissue grafting, or other reconstructive procedures.