Penile Implant Surgery for Erectile Dysfunction: What You Need to Know
Penile implant surgery, also known as penile prosthesis implantation, is a highly effective surgical treatment for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) who have not responded to medication or less invasive therapies. It restores the ability to achieve a firm, controllable erection for sexual intercourse — with excellent satisfaction rates for both patients and partners.
At Manchester Urology, penile implant surgery is performed by specialist andrological surgeons with expertise in complex male sexual and reproductive health.
What Is a Penile Implant?
A penile implant (or penile prosthesis) is a medical device placed inside the penis to allow a man to achieve an erection mechanically. The device is completely concealed within the body, making it a discreet and natural-looking solution for ED.
There are two main types of penile implant:
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Inflatable penile implant – The most commonly used type. It consists of two cylinders inserted into the penis, a small fluid reservoir placed in the abdomen, and a pump positioned in the scrotum. Squeezing the pump transfers fluid into the cylinders to create an erection. When deflated, the penis returns to a soft, natural state.
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Malleable (semi-rigid) penile implant – A pair of flexible rods inserted into the penis that can be manually positioned upward for intercourse or downward for concealment.
Who Is Penile Implant Surgery For?
Penile implant surgery is typically offered when other erectile dysfunction treatments have failed or are unsuitable. It may be considered in men who:
- Do not respond to oral medications such as Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil) or Levitra (vardenafil)
- Cannot tolerate injection or vacuum therapies
- Have ED following prostate, bladder or colorectal cancer surgery
- Have long-term diabetes or vascular disease affecting penile blood flow
- Suffer from Peyronie’s disease causing penile curvature with erectile dysfunction
Penile implant surgery is viewed as a definitive and permanent solution for men with end-stage ED.
Why Choose Manchester Urology
Prof. Ian Pearce and Prof. Vaibhav Modgil are internationally renowned penile implant surgeons and perform the highest number of infrapubic penile implant operations in the UK. They have the lowest infection and re-do surgery rates in the UK too (HES data).
- Highly experienced consultant andrological surgeons
- Advanced three-piece inflatable prostheses
- Comprehensive counselling and follow-up care
- Access to multidisciplinary sexual medicine expertise
Our surgical outcomes align with the best international standards for penile prosthesis implantation.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
The procedure is usually performed under general or spinal anaesthetic and takes around one to two hours.
- A small incision is made at the base of the penis or in the scrotum.
- The surgeon places the prosthetic cylinders within the erectile chambers (corpora cavernosa).
- For inflatable devices, the fluid reservoir and pump are positioned in the lower abdomen and scrotum respectively.
- Once the device is in place and tested, the incision is closed with dissolvable sutures.
Most patients stay in hospital overnight and can return home the next day.
Recovery After Penile Implant Surgery
Recovery is generally straightforward:
- Mild pain, bruising and swelling are common for the first few days.
- Most men return to light activity within a week and resume normal activities in 2–3 weeks.
- Sexual intercourse can typically resume at 4–6 weeks post-surgery, once healing is complete.
For inflatable implants, patients are taught how to use the pump system during follow-up appointments. Your surgeon will advise on wound care, hygiene and when to safely begin device activation.
Benefits of Penile Implant Surgery
- High success and satisfaction rates – Studies show over 90% of men and partners are satisfied with outcomes.
- Restores sexual confidence and spontaneity.
- Natural look and feel – The implant is completely internal; when deflated, the penis appears soft and natural.
- Long-term reliability – Modern implants can last 10–15 years or more.
- Reversible impotence solution – Offers effective rigidity regardless of nerve or blood vessel damage.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, there are potential risks, although serious complications are rare in experienced hands:
- Infection (1–3%)
- Bleeding or bruising
- Device malfunction or leakage
- Erosion of components through the skin
- Short-term pain or swelling
Importantly, once a penile implant is placed, the surgery is irreversible – natural erections will no longer occur because the erectile tissue is replaced by the prosthetic cylinders.
Will It Affect Sensation or Orgasm?
No. Penile implant surgery does not affect penile sensation, orgasm or ejaculation. Most men report that sexual pleasure and intimacy feel the same, or even improved, once confidence is restored. However, it will not increase penile length or restore lost erectile tissue.
Choosing Between Inflatable and Malleable Implants
The choice of implant depends on lifestyle, manual dexterity and personal preference.
Inflatable (2- or 3-piece): Most natural erection/deflation; discreet; high satisfaction. Slightly more complex surgery; mechanical components may need replacement over time.
Malleable (semi-rigid): Simple to use; minimal risk of mechanical failure. Penis remains semi-rigid at all times; less natural appearance.
Summary: A Permanent Solution for Erectile Dysfunction
Penile implant surgery is a safe, effective and durable treatment for men with severe erectile dysfunction. For the right candidate, it restores sexual function, confidence and quality of life — often transforming relationships and emotional well-being.
If you have been struggling with erectile dysfunction and other treatments have not worked, speak to your GP or contact the Manchester Urology team to discuss whether penile prosthesis surgery may be suitable for you.