Lybrate Logo
Get the App
For Doctors
Login/Sign-up
Last Updated: Oct 23, 2019
BookMark
Report

Types of Penile Implants & Risks Involved

Profile Image
Dr. Ajay Kumar GuptaSexologist • 42 Years Exp.MBBS
Topic Image

Penile implants are devices placed inside the penis to help men with erectile dysfunction get an erection. The two main types of penile implants are semi-rigid and inflatable.

They have their own ways of working and own pros and cons.

1. Semi-rigid implants: These devices are always firm, resulting in the penis being bent away from the body for sexual activity and towards the body for concealment. The pros of 'semi-rigid implants' are:

  • Is easy to surgically implant
  • Has a low chance of malfunctioning

2. Inflatable implants: These are the most common types of implants used, which can be inflated for erection, and deflated at other times. Inflatable implants are usually of two types- 'three-piece inflatable implants' and 'two-piece inflatable implants'.

The pros of 'three-piece inflatable implants' are:

  • Gives the most natural, firm erections
  • Provides flaccidity when deflated

The pros of 'two-piece inflatable implants' are:

  • Provides flaccidity when deflated
  • Requires less complicated surgery than the 'three-piece'.

What are the risks involved?

  1. Implant problems: In rare cases, implants may not work properly. In some semi-rigid devices, the internal parts might break over time; in inflatable devices, the pump might fail and fluid might leak.
  2. Internal erosion: In a few cases, the implant might stick to the skin of your penis, or can wear away the skin from inside the penis.
  3. Infection: You might be at the risks of severe infection if you have spinal cord injury or diabetes. Men who need revision surgery of their implants are at a higher risk than their first surgery.
chat_icon

Ask a free question

Get FREE multiple opinions from Doctors

posted anonymously
doctor

View fees, clinc timings and reviews
doctor

Treatment Enquiry

Get treatment cost, find best hospital/clinics and know other details