There are 2 main types of penile implants used to treat erectile dysfunction; semi-rigid and inflatable implants. Here’s an overview of their differences.
Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which a man is unable to get and sustain an erection enough to have sexual intercourse. It is a subject rarely talked about by men but studies have shown that around 5% of men in their 40 have the condition and this percentage increases as men get to their 70’s.
Your doctor may prescribe medication but in cases where the dysfunction is severe, penile implant surgery is recommended.
There are 2 main types of penile implants; semi-rigid and inflatable penile implants. What are the differences? Here’s an overview that will answer the most common penile implant questions and answers.
Semi-rigid implants
They are also referred to as malleable implants and usually consist of 2 bendable rods placed in the spongy erectile tissue. To achieve an erection, you hold your penis and move it to the desired erectile position and once you’re done, you put it back in the original position.
These implants are easier to use and are fairly cheaper compared to inflatable implants. Surgery is also less complex as the malleable implants only have 2 parts and the risk of failure is minimal. Their downside is that they always seem firm so concealing them is a bit harder but new technologies make that less of a concern.
Semi-rigid implants can cause penile injuries as they constantly put pressure on the penis.
Inflatable implants
These types of implants come in 2 designs: the 2-piece and the 3-piece inflatable implants. They come with a pump, reservoir, and a cylinder, and to activate them, you have to press the pump located in your scrotum, which then fills the cylinders with saline solution, forming an erection.
You have to keep pumping until you achieve your desired erection and after intercourse, you deactivate it by releasing a valve inside the scrotal sac.
The 3-piece inflatable penile implant is the most expensive and requires the most amount of surgery. Due to the many pieces, it is most susceptible to malfunctions and requires more manual energy to activate it than the others.
The 2-piece implant is fairly easier to use and an abdominal incision is not required to put it in. Its erections are however less rigid than those of a 3-piece implant.
Most men prefer these implants because they feel more natural than malleable ones.
Your Doctor Can Answer Other Common Penile Implant Questions and Answers
Despite their differences, both implants give men the ability to have and sustain an erection throughout intercourse. To find out which implant would be appropriate for you, make sure you discuss both options with your doctor.
Before going in for the surgery, your doctor will request a consultation so that they can correctly assess your condition and determine if the implant would be the best option. Ensure you ask any questions you might have including the risks that come with penile implant surgery.
Links to sources used
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)- https://www.uwhealth.org/urology/erectile-dysfunction-ed/20537