DM Implants

The inflatable penile implant has essentially three components; the two penile cylinders (one component), the pumping mechanism (the pump) and the reservoir containing saline (salt water) The penis has two erectile cavities on either side of the penis called the corpora cavernosa. The cylinders are placed within these bodies. The pump mechanism is placed under the skin of the scrotum near one of the testicles. The reservoir is surgically placed deep under the midline abdominal muscles. To activate the device, that is, create an erection, the pump next to the testicle is activated thus moving saline into the chambers in the penis. Thus a very natural erection can be achieved. When ready to return to the soft or flaccid state the man activates the pump again which releases fluid from the penis back into the reservoir.

Is there a lot of experience with these implants? Yes, somewhere in the neighborhood of 500,000 penile implant operations have been done over the years.

Are any of the parts outside the body? This is one of the most common misconceptions I run into. No, there is nothing outside the body, and for all intents and purposes one cannot tell that a person has had this operation. I have many patients whose partners do not know they have had the operation.

Is it natural in appearance in feel? The idea that something could be put in the body like an implant and still be natural is hard for some men to grasp, but for the most part, everything is completely natural in appearance and sensation.

Will I still have the same pleasure with sex? The simple answer is yes. Now there may be a few men in whom sensations are different, but most men describe normal and fulfilling sexual activity.

Will it affect my urination or any other bodily functions? Sometimes things are a little different for a few days simply because any surgery can have effects on body parts in the same area, but basically there are no changes.

Will insurance cover the cost of surgery? Usually. Medicare does cover Penile Implant surgery also. Keep in mind there can be some deductibles, co-pays and other issues with specific insurance plans.

I would like to consider the surgery, is there anyone I could visit with who has had this operation? Yes, we have a gentleman named Joe is has had implant surgery and also has had training to the point that he can discuss many of the issues with you in great detail.

This operation is done usually in our day surgery unit at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Hospital. Your total time at the hospital is usually about 4 hours. You will come to the hospital an hour or so before the surgery, the surgical procedure usually takes about an hour, then an hour or two for recovery before returning home. The operation itself usually entails a small incision made in the lower abdomen just above the penis. The prosthesis itself is placed through this small opening. After being certain that everything is in proper position and working properly the incision is closed and recovery begins. After an hour or two, most men are ready to return home.

After surgery I recommend ice be placed over the surgical area, and this usually starts at the hospital. I advise use of ice off and on for at least a couple of days after surgery. It is alright to shower the 2nd day after surgery. It is very important to take your prescribed antibiotics exactly as prescribed. Pain pills will be given to you as well, and can be used as needed. Moderate swelling, some bruising and tenderness is all normal and expected. Excessive pain, swelling or fever is not expected and we ask you to call should anything like this occur. I generally see my patients in about 2 weeks, sooner if necessary. Many men are ready to resume sexual activity within 3 to 4 weeks, but for some it does take a little longer.