Navigating the world of Peyronie’s disease, a condition causing a significant bend in the erect penis due to fibrous scar tissue, can be daunting and confusing. For some, this disease may resolve on its own without intervention.
However, others may require surgical procedures to alleviate discomfort and restore normal function. Here’s a comprehensive review of the surgical options available, what they entail, and what recovery might look like.
What is Peyronie’s Disease, and When is Surgery Necessary?
Peyronie’s disease is a condition where fibrous scar tissue, or plaques, develop on the tunica albuginea, which is the thick sheath of tissue that surrounds the corpora cavernosa (spongy tissue in your penis that help with erection) of the penis.
These plaques can cause the penis to bend upwards, downwards, or sideways. In severe cases, the curvature may make sexual intercourse painful or even impossible.
Surgery for Peyronie’s disease may be considered in cases where:
- The curvature of the penis significantly affects sexual function or causes pain
- The condition has stabilized (it’s no longer worsening)
Understanding the Surgical Options
Surgery for penile curvature diseaseaims to reduce the curvature of the penis, increase its length, or both. There are several surgical techniques available, and the choice of approach depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s sexual and reproductive goals.
Some of the common surgical procedures include:
Penile Plication
Penile plication is a common surgical technique designed to correct the curvature of the penis that is less than 60 degrees. This procedure involves making small incisions on the side of the penis opposite the plaque or scar tissue causing the curvature.
Once these incisions are made, sutures are strategically placed to pull the longer side of the penis towards the shorter one, effectively straightening it.
This procedure is often a preferred choice for patients who have maintained adequate penile length despite their penile curvature diseaseand have minimal scarring from the condition. It offers the advantage of being less invasive than some other surgical options and preserves erectile function.
Recovery After Penile Plication
Recovery from penile plication is generally swift, with most patients able to resume light activities within just a day or two post-surgery. However, patients are typically advised to refrain from sexual activity and more strenuous physical activities for up to 5 weeks following the procedure.
This allows the penis sufficient time to heal and helps prevent complications.
Grafting Procedures
For men with more complex or severe penile curvature disease, penile grafting procedures may be necessary. These procedures involve using tissue — either taken from another part of the patient’s body or from a donor — to lengthen the short side of the penis.
The graft helps to offset the curvature by providing additional length where the plaque has caused contraction and bending.
Recovery After Grafting Procedures
Recovery after penile grafting tends to be more involved and usually takes longer than recovery from penile plication. Patients are generally advised to avoid sexual activity and strenuous physical activities for about 8 weeks post-surgery.
Additionally, there may be a period of penile rehabilitation, which can include the use of penile traction devices and massage to ensure optimal function following the surgery.
Penile Implant
In cases where penile curvature disease is accompanied by severe erectile dysfunction, a penile prosthesis may be recommended. This involves the surgical implantation of inflatable or malleable rods inside the penis.
These devices allow for an on-demand erection and can improve both sexual function and satisfaction.
Recovery After Penile Implant
The recovery period after penile prosthesis implantation is generally longer than that for plication or grafting procedures. Patients are typically advised to wait 2 to 3 weeks to return to work and avoid sexual activity for several weeks to allow for proper healing.
Follow-up care is usually scheduled to ensure the implant is functioning correctly and to address any potential issues or concerns.
Penile Curvature Disease in Phoenix, AZ
Peyronie’s disease can be a challenging condition, but with the advancements in surgical techniques and postoperative care, there is hope for improved quality of life for those affected.
If you are considering surgical treatment for penile curvature disease, visit our urologist here at Ironwood Urology. Our men’s health specialist, Dr. Desiderio Avila, not only performs surgical procedures for Peyronie’s disease but also guides patients on steps to maintain the results of the procedure and offers guidance on managing any residual symptoms or changes.
For more information about us or to meet our provider, contact us today at (480) 961-2323 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
