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Considering a Penile Implant? 4 Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Dec 11, 2023
Penile implants can improve your erections, making sex and intimacy more pleasurable. Here are four questions to ask your doctor before deciding on one.

If you struggle to achieve or maintain erections during sex, you’re in plentiful company. Roughly 40% of men experience these issues, known as erectile dysfunction (ED), by age 40. That number increases to almost 70% by age 70. 

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a condition in which plaque buildup in the penis fuels painful and bent erections. Your risk increases as you age — especially after 50

Our experts at Kane Health, serving the Silicon Valley, Redwood City, and the San Francisco Bay area of California, offer effective treatments for ED and PD, including penile implants, to help restore your sexual well-being.

Let’s explore the details of penile implants, including questions to ask your doctor.

How penile implants work

Penile implants are devices that create firm and straight erections. Your implant may be inflatable or non-inflatable. 

An inflatable penile implant is a pump placed in your scrotum. When you want to achieve an erection, you press the pump to inflate the implant. After sex, you release a valve in your scrotum to ease the hardness.

Non-inflatable implants consist of silicone rods that sit within your penis. Also known as semi-rigid rods, non-inflatable penile implants stay firm around the clock. Outside of sex, you can bend your penis toward your body for concealment.

Questions to ask your doctor about penile implants

As with any surgical procedure or implanted device, open communication with your medical provider is important for ensuring the best outcome. If you’re interested in a penile implant for ED or PD, here are a few questions to ask your doctor:

1. Am I a good candidate?

Optimal candidates for a penile implant are in generally good overall health and experience erectile problems associated with erectile dysfunction or Peyronie’s disease. The best way to find out if a penile implant is ideal for you is through a comprehensive exam with our specialist. 

2. Is a penile implant my best option?

There are numerous treatments for ED and PD, such as oral medications, injections, and lifestyle changes. We walk you through options besides penile implants and recommend ideal treatment based on your symptom specifics and the underlying cause.

3. What kind of penile implant is right for me?

Several factors determine which type of penile implant best suits you. While an inflatable penile implant gives you full control over your erection timing, a non-inflatable penile implant allows for more spontaneous sex. Talking with our team about your goals and sexual habits can help ensure that you receive your ideal type. 

4. Are penile implants safe and effective?

Considered generally safe, the penile implant procedure brings a low risk for side effects or complications. Over 90% of recipients are very satisfied with the results, and the implants usually last for 20 years. Because individual results and health needs vary, leaning on our team’s guidance can ensure a positive outcome.

To find out if you’re a good candidate for a penile implant or learn more about this treatment, call Kane Health or request an appointment through our website today.