Penile implant surgery, also known as penile prosthesis surgery, is a medical procedure performed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men who do not respond to other treatments. It involves the surgical insertion of a penile implant, which is an artificial device that allows men to achieve an erection suitable for sexual intercourse.

There are two main types of penile implants:

1. Inflatable Penile Implant (IPP): In this type of implant, two cylinders are surgically placed in the penis, and a reservoir is implanted in the abdomen or scrotum. The cylinders are filled with fluid from the reservoir to create an erection when the man squeezes a pump located in the scrotum.
2. Semi-Rigid Penile Implant: This type of implant consists of two bendable rods that are surgically placed in the penis. The penis remains in a semi-rigid state and can be bent into a position for sexual activity.

The surgery is typically performed under general or regional anesthesia, and the patient may need to stay in the hospital for a short period for observation and recovery. After the surgery, the patient will be instructed on how to use the penile implant and how to care for it properly.

Penile implant surgery is considered safe and effective for men with severe erectile dysfunction who have not responded to other treatments such as oral medications, vacuum erection devices, or injections. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, or mechanical failure of the implant.

Men considering penile implant surgery should undergo a thorough evaluation by a urologist or a specialist in men’s sexual health to determine if they are suitable candidates for the procedure. It is essential to have a detailed discussion with the healthcare provider about the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of the surgery before making a decision.

It’s important to note that penile implant surgery is not performed as a means of gender affirmation for transgender individuals seeking to undergo male-to-female (MTF) transition. For transgender women, there are different surgical procedures available, such as vaginoplasty, to create female genitalia.

Similarly, for transgender men, phalloplasty is a surgical option to construct male genitalia. These procedures are distinct from penile implant surgery.