Who is a candidate for a penis implant?

A penis implant is a surgical procedure that can help men who have erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.

There are two main types of penis implants: inflatable implants and semi-rigid implants. Inflatable implants have two cylinders that are placed inside the penis. The cylinders are connected to a pump that is located in the scrotum. When the man pumps the device, the cylinders fill with fluid and the penis becomes erect. Semi-rigid implants are made of silicone rods that are placed inside the penis. The rods are always somewhat erect, but the man can bend them up or down.

Men who are candidates for a penis implant typically have severe ED that has not responded to other treatments, such as medication or therapy. They should also be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about what the implant can do.

Here are some of the factors that a doctor will consider when determining if a man is a candidate for a penis implant:

• The severity of the man’s ED
• The man’s overall health
• The man’s expectations for the implant
• The man’s ability to care for the implant

Penis implants are a safe and effective way to treat ED. However, they are not without risks. Some of the risks associated with penis implants include infection, bleeding, and device malfunction.

A penile implant, also known as a penile prosthesis, is typically considered for men who have severe erectile dysfunction (ED) that hasn’t responded well to other treatment options. Candidates for a penile implant are individuals who:

1. Have Tried Other Treatments: Candidates should have attempted and failed to achieve satisfactory results with other treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as oral medications (e.g., Viagra, Cialis), vacuum erection devices, penile injections, and lifestyle changes.
2. Have Severe Erectile Dysfunction: Penile implants are generally reserved for individuals with severe ED, meaning they are unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity using other methods.
3. Desire a Permanent Solution: Penile implants are a long-term solution for erectile dysfunction. Candidates should be willing to undergo surgery and commit to the post-operative care required.
4. Are Medically Fit for Surgery: Candidates for a penile implant should be in good overall health and be able to tolerate surgery and anesthesia. Pre-existing medical conditions should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
5. Do Not Respond to Psychological Interventions: For some individuals, psychological factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Candidates for a penile implant should have ruled out psychological causes as the primary factor for their ED.
6. Have Realistic Expectations: Candidates should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. While a penile implant can restore the ability to have erections, it might not replicate the sensation of a natural erection completely.
7. Are Willing to Learn and Participate: Candidates should be willing to learn how to use the implant properly and participate in post-operative care, which includes regular follow-up appointments.