Penile Implant Surgery
Penile Implant Surgery
Advanced Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
For many men, the inability to achieve or maintain an erection can affect their sense of confidence, their emotional well-being, and their intimacy with a partner. These experiences can be deeply personal, but it is important to know that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common medical condition and is not a reflection of masculinity. ED can affect men at any stage of life, and its prevalence increases with age. In fact, by the age of 70, approximately 70% of men have experienced erectile dysfunction.
When medications or other therapies no longer provide reliable results, penile implant surgery can be an effective, long-term solution. Penile implants are a safe and highly effective treatment option for erectile dysfunction, and patients do not need to fail non surgical therapies before considering surgery. For motivated individuals who can safely tolerate anesthesia, a penile implant can provide a dependable, natural feeling solution that restores sexual function and confidence. Our team helps patients understand all available options and supports them in choosing the approach that best aligns with their goals and health needs.
Mount Sinai Medical Center is recognized as a high-volume leader in penile implant surgeries, performing more procedures each year than the vast majority of hospitals in the nation. Our team of experts utilize advanced implant techniques that safely restore sexual function, delivering lasting results that help men regain their confidence and move forward with an improved quality of life.
A Personalized, Effective Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
A penile implant, or penile prosthesis, is a medical device that is surgically implanted in the penis to help men with erectile dysfunction achieve an erection safely and without medication. The implant is fully internal and designed to work naturally and comfortably.
Types of Implants
Men can choose between two different types of implants:
- Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP): Allows the penis to remain soft when not in use and become firm only when activated, closely replicating a natural erection.
- Semirigid implants: Composed of flexible rods that maintain consistent firmness and can be positioned as needed.
Both devices are engineered to provide optimal comfort, reliability, and durability. Patients work closely with their care team to determine the best option based on their anatomy, lifestyle, and clinical considerations.
Penile implants are among the most effective treatments for ED, with patients and their partners reporting high satisfaction and improved quality of life in long-term studies.
Surgical Approaches and Incision Locations
Penile implant surgery can be performed through two well‑established surgical approaches. Each method offers excellent outcomes, and the choice of approach is personalized to your anatomy, prior surgeries, and surgeon preference. At Mount Sinai, our implanters are highly experienced and proficient in both techniques, ensuring patients receive the approach best suited to their individual situation.
Who is a Candidate?
Penile implant surgery may be the right option for men whose erectile dysfunction does not improve with nonsurgical therapies, or whose condition is linked to underlying medical issues.
Candidates for penile implant surgery include:
- Men who have persistent erectile dysfunction even after trying medications like Viagra or Cialis.
- Men who have tried other nonsurgical treatments for their erectile dysfunction, such as injections or vacuum devices.
- Men who experience erectile dysfunction as a result of prostate cancer surgery, radiation treatment to the groin, or pelvic surgery.
- Men who have diabetes, vascular disease, or neurological conditions.
- Men who prefer a dependable and spontaneous option for their erectile dysfunction, instead of slower-acting medications.
- Men who want a long-term solution with predictable results.
Prior to surgery, your Mount Sinai urologist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam, a review of your medical history, and a discussion of treatments and goals. Through this process, our team can carefully tailor surgical recommendations to each patient’s individual needs.
Determining the Right Implant for You
Your Mount Sinai surgeon will explain the functional differences between inflatable and semirigid devices, review how each is used, and recommend a device that best aligns with your medical history, dexterity, and personal preferences. At Mount Sinai, shared decision-making is a priority and a key part of this process.
What to Expect
Before Surgery
You will meet with your Mount Sinai urologist to review the procedure, discuss anesthesia options, and complete any required preoperative testing. During this process, your surgeon will provide guidance on medications, when and what you can eat or drink before surgery, and what to expect on the day of your operation. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, confident, and fully prepared before entering the operating room.
During Surgery
First, you will receive the type of anaesthesia you and your Mount Sinai surgeon chose, which may be general or local. The operation itself usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes. Using small, precise incisions, your surgeon will carefully place your implant, which allows for:
- Minimal scarring
- Reduced discomfort
- Faster recovery
Many patients are able to return home the same day, allowing you to begin your recovery in the comfort of your own surroundings.
After Surgery
Following your operation, you may experience temporary swelling or discomfort. These side effects are common and gradually improve over several days, with most patients returning to light activities within one to two weeks.
Recovery and Follow-Up Care
You and your Mount Sinai urologist will remain in close communication throughout your recovery, meeting regularly for follow-up visits until you are fully healed. The first postoperative visit typically occurs within a week of surgery, followed by a visit at four to six weeks, when your doctors may clear you to begin using your implant.
Patients can usually resume sexual activity after their six-week visit. Additional appointments can be scheduled as needed to address any questions, ensure comfort, and confirm proper function of the implant.
Why Choose Mount Sinai Medical Center
At Mount Sinai Medical Center, our urology team combines specialized expertise, advanced technology, and a patient-centered approach to deliver exceptional care for men with erectile dysfunction. We are a high-volume medical center, performing more penile implant surgeries than the vast majority of hospitals or surgery centers in the entire United States.
Expert, Subspecialized Urologists
Our surgeons include fellowship-trained specialists in penile reconstruction, prosthetics, and men’s health. With extensive experience, they provide precise, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Academic and Research Leadership
Unlike other local penile implant programs, Mount Sinai’s urology team stands out not only for clinical expertise but also for its leadership in academic medicine and discovery. As part of a teaching hospital with an ACGME-accredited urology residency program, our surgeons train the next generation of specialists while advancing the field through ongoing clinical research. Every procedure integrates the latest evidence-based techniques and continuous quality improvement, ensuring patients benefit from the most innovative and effective care available.
Advanced Surgical Technology
We employ state-of-the-art surgical and diagnostic tools to optimize outcomes and safety. Our medical center is home to the latest technology, including minimally invasive techniques, advanced imaging guidance, and high-precision instruments.
Comprehensive, Coordinated Care
From initial consultation to recovery and follow-up, patients benefit from a fully integrated care team, personalized guidance, and education on implant use, ensuring your confidence and long-term satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Penile Implant Surgery
Discussing erectile dysfunction and penile implant surgery can feel challenging for many patients and their partners. With this in mind, we compiled the following Q&As about penile implant surgery to help you better understand the procedure, recovery, and outcomes.
Will the penile implant be visible or noticeable?
No. The device is entirely internal and cannot be seen from the outside.
Does the penile implant affect sensation or sexual function?
Most men continue to experience normal sensation and are able to reach orgasm after recovery.
How long do penile implants last?
Many implants effectively function for 10 years or longer, depending on individual factors, such as frequency of use, patient health, and type of implant.
How soon can I return to normal activities after penile implant surgery?
You can likely return to light activities within one to two weeks following your penile implant surgery. Sexual activity is usually permitted four to six weeks after surgery, once your Mount Sinai urologist clears you to engage in intercourse.
Is the penile implant safe?
Yes. Penile implant surgery is a well-established, safe, and effective procedure.
Will my partner notice a difference during sex with the implant?
Most partners do not notice anything different. The penile implant is a fully internal device, and the erection it creates is designed to feel natural.
Our Physicians
George Wayne, MD
- Urology
- Mount Sinai Primary & Specialty Care Coral Gables
- 305.441.0910
- Mount Sinai Primary & Specialty Care Miami Shores
- 305.441.0910
Billy H Cordon-Galiano, MD
Director, Urologic Reconstruction, Trauma, and Prosthetics
- Men’s Health
- Urology
- Robotic Surgery
- Mount Sinai Medical Center (Main Campus)
- 305.674.2499
- Mount Sinai Primary & Specialty Care Skylake
- 305.919.1970
- Mount Sinai Medical Center, Kenneth C. Griffin Center, Hialeah – Emergency Center and Primary & Specialty Care | Mount Sinai Eldercare
- 786.584.5555
- Mount Sinai Primary & Specialty Care Midtown
- 786.598.4560
Michaela Sljivich, MD
- Men’s Health
- Urology
- Urologic Prosthetics
- Urologic Reconstruction
- Mount Sinai Medical Center (Main Campus)
- 305.674.2499
- Mount Sinai Primary & Specialty Care East Hialeah
- 305.674.2499
- Mount Sinai Medical Center (Main Campus)
- 305.674.2499
- Mount Sinai Emergency Center, Physician Offices, Cancer Center and Diagnostic Center Aventura
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