Approximately 52% of men experience erectile dysfunction (ED). While popular ED medications like Viagra®, Cialis®, and Levitra® can offer significant relief, they don’t provide solutions for everyone. That’s why our experts at Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina offer a variety of ED treatments, including penile implants.

If you have problems achieving and maintaining a satisfying erection, we can help you understand how penile implants work and whether they can boost or restore your sexual vitality.

How penile implants work

Unlike ED medications taken orally to improve sexual function, a penile implant involves surgically placing a device inside your penis so you can achieve an erection. There are two basic types of penile implants: inflatable and semirigid.

Inflatable penile implants

The most common type of penile implant involves an inflatable device inserted in your penis and controlled with a fluid reservoir and pump. 

To achieve an erection with this type of implant, you press the pump we place inside your scrotum. This action releases saline solution from the attached reservoir, which flows into the inflatable cylinders or rods in your penis. After sexual engagement, you deflate your erection by releasing the valve in your scrotum so fluid can return to the reservoir.

Semirigid penile implants

When you have a semirigid penile implant, you always have a firm penis. This treatment relies on flexible rods inserted in your penis that you can set in different positions. While this type of implant is very easy to use and typically involves a simple surgical procedure, it can be a little less comfortable and difficult to conceal during the day.

Getting a penile implant usually takes 1-2 hours under anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, and you can typically resume sexual activity within 4-6 weeks. 

When to consider a penile implant

We might recommend a penile implant if you experience persistent ED that doesn’t respond to other treatments, like medications or vacuum constriction devices (penis pumps). A penile implant could also be a good ED solution if you have a condition like Peyronie’s disease. 

Men who get penile implants report an 80-90% satisfaction rate. However, we might not recommend this solution if you have:

• A low libido
• Emotional issues causing your ED
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Lesions or inflammation on your penis or scrotum

To determine if a penile implant is right for you, we perform a comprehensive exam and discuss all of your ED options, including the risks, benefits, and alternatives for treating your symptoms. 

For more information on penile implants and ED solutions, call our office in Wilmington, North Carolina at (910) 763-6251, take advantage of our convenient telemedicine services, or you can send a message to our team here on our website.