In this article you will learn:
Penile implants are a type of surgical treatment that can help men who suffer from erectile dysfunction or other sexual performance issues. These implants are designed to provide a permanent solution for men who are unable to achieve or maintain an erection through other means, such as medication or lifestyle changes. While penile implants can be an effective treatment option for some men, it is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits before undergoing the procedure.
There are two primary types of penile implants: inflatable and non-inflatable. Inflatable implants are the most common type and are composed of two or three parts that are implanted into the penis. The parts consist of a pump, reservoir, and cylinders placed inside the penis. The pump is located in the scrotum and inflates the cylinders, which in turn causes the penis to become erect. Non-inflatable implants are less common and consist of a pair of rods that are surgically implanted into the penis. These rods keep the penis rigid and can be bent down when not in use.
The surgery to implant a penile implant typically takes about an hour and can be done on an outpatient basis. Most men are able to resume sexual activity and even work/their job within four to six weeks after the surgery. However, it is important to note that there are risks associated with penile implant surgery, including infection, bleeding, and mechanical failure of the device.
The cost of a penile implant can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the type of implant, the surgeon's fees, the location of the surgery, and any additional medical expenses. Generally, the cost of a penile implant can range from $13,000 to $35,000 with the most common cost being between $20,000 to $25,000.
It is important to note that the cost of a penile implant may not be covered by health insurance, as it is considered an elective or cosmetic procedure. However, some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost if it is deemed medically necessary. It is important to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the cost of penile implants.
It is also essential to consider the non-financial costs of a penile implant, such as the surgery's potential risks and side effects, the recovery time, and the impact on sexual function and satisfaction. It is essential to carefully weigh the risks and benefits before deciding whether a penile implant is the right treatment option for you.
However, it is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits of penile implants before undergoing the procedure. The surgery is irreversible, and the implants cannot be removed once they are in place. In addition, there is a risk of infection or mechanical failure, which can require additional surgery to correct.
If you are considering a penile implant, it is important to discuss your options with a healthcare professional who specializes in sexual health. They can help to determine whether a penile implant is a safe and effective option for you, and can provide guidance on the risks and benefits of the procedure.
What alternative treatments should I explore before a Penile Implant?
A penis pump is a medical device used to create a vacuum or negative pressure around the penis, which can help temporarily increase blood flow to the area and produce an erection. It is also known as a vacuum erection device (VED). After which a ring is placed around the penis in an effort to constrict blood flow and maintain artificially the blood that has been pulled into the shaft of the penis to create a pseudo erection.
Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT) is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses high-energy shockwaves to stimulate healing, break up plaque and reduce pain in damaged or injured tissue.
During FSWT treatment, a machine delivers high-energy focused sound waves to the affected body area. These sound waves travel through the skin and into the vascular areas within the penis, creating a mechanical force that stimulates the body's natural healing processes, including forming new blood vessels and releasing growth factors. This helps to improve blood flow to the area, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration.
It is vital to note that this treatment is not painful. Here is one of many patients who have experienced the effectiveness of this therapy versus having tried the less effective radial acoustic wave therapy treatments first.
Linear Shockwave Therapy (LSWT) is a type of shockwave therapy that uses low-intensity sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in damaged or injured tissue.
During LSWT treatment, a machine delivers low-energy sound waves to the affected body area. These sound waves create a mechanical force that stimulates the body's natural healing processes, including the formation of new blood vessels and the release of growth factors. This helps to improve blood flow to the area, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration.
Changing your diet, exercise routine, and habits can help improve Erectile Function, diminishing erectile dysfunction. This may include losing weight, reducing alcohol consumption, lowering coffee intake, quitting smoking, and increasing physical activity.
This wave therapy has not been solidly proven effective by rigorous clinical trials. There have been two known trials to date. One was with 24 patients, the other with 48. Drastically smaller participants than the over 800 patients in one trial in which focus shockwave therapy technology and linear shockwave therapy were utilized and found to be most effective. In the trial with 48 patients, they were trying to compare the efficiency of radio acoustic wave therapy with focus shockwave therapy.
To skew the numbers this trial started the focus shockwave therapy millijoules of energy transfer at 0.09. The lowest recommended setting for this care center around ED is starting at 0.15.
Radial Acoustic Wave Therapy is painful because the wave hits the dermis and spreads out along the penis or contacted area. It creates inflammation and is very much like taking a spoon and hitting the penis for as long as the treatment would last, usually about 20 minutes. It is for this purpose that most of those who provide this therapy with this technology have the patient place a numbing gel on the penis 30 minutes before treatment. Most clinics that utilize this technology have less than favorable/optimal results for their patients.
These treatments can be found in wave devices most often called Gaines wave, John wave, radial acoustic wave, and some name wave in an effort to mislead what this wave is. What it is not. It is not a true lithotripsy device. It has not been through significant clinical trials to show its effective solid results for reversing ED. Here is an educational link to help clear up the vast differences between effective therapies in wave treatments and those that are not.
There are many options to consider when thinking about your sexual health and wellness. Happy Valley Clinic offers free in-person consultations, shim score assessment, and circulatory analysis, where we can discuss your specific situation and begin to create a plan to help with your erectile dysfunction.
Set up an appointment today by calling 1-844-599-2800 or to have additional questions answered call 1-833-ED-NO-FUN to speak with our Clinical Director or via email at brock@happyvalleyclinic.com. Among Focused Shockwave treatments for ED are nitric oxide busting treatments, the P-Shot, pelvic floor strengthening, hormone therapy, and more.
By calling Happy Valley Clinic you can receive these assessments at no charge. These assessments will provide the medical professional with the necessary information to determine if providing care would be in the best interest of the patient.
