Penile prostheses stand out as one of the most permanent and effective solutions in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. One of the most curious questions of patients is “how long is the life of penile prosthesis?”. The lifespan of penile prostheses may vary depending on the material used and the patient’s lifestyle. Generally, inflatable prostheses can be used between 10-15 years. However, if the prosthesis fails, it may need to be replaced by surgical intervention. In this article, we will discuss the factors affecting penile prosthesis life, points to be considered during the use process and other curious details.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
What is Penile Prosthesis?
Penile prosthesis is a surgical treatment method applied to men who have erectile dysfunction (erectile dysfunction) and cannot get results from medication, injection or other treatment methods. These medical devices, which are implanted into the penis, allow the patient to achieve sufficient hardness for sexual intercourse.
Penile prostheses are completely hidden inside the body and are not noticeable from the outside. The prosthesis improves the quality of sexual life, increases self-confidence and strengthens the relationship between the couple. The most commonly used types of prostheses today are inflatable penile prosthesis and malleable prostheses. While inflatable models offer a more natural erection appearance, malleable models stand out with their ease of use.
How Many Years Can Penile Prosthesis Be Used?
The duration of use of penile prostheses may vary depending on the type of prosthesis preferred, the quality of the material used in its production and the patient’s lifestyle. In general, inflatable penile prostheses can be used for an average of 10-15 years without any problems. This period can be longer for some models produced with more durable materials.
Malleable penile prostheses, on the other hand, have a lower risk of failure because they do not contain mechanical parts. Therefore, their lifespan may be longer. However, most patients prefer inflatable prostheses for ease of use and natural appearance.
One of the most important points here is the patient factors that affect the life of the prosthesis. Excessive physical activities, lack of attention to hygiene rules, frequent recurrent infections or chronic diseases (e.g. diabetes) can shorten the lifespan of the prosthesis.
What are the Factors Affecting the Duration of Penile Prosthesis Use?
The lifespan of penile prostheses may not be the same for every patient. The following factors directly affect the life of the prosthesis:
-
Type of Prosthesis Used
Inflatable penile prostheses can be used for an average of 10-15 years because they have mechanical parts, while bendable prostheses can last longer.
-
Material Quality
Prostheses made of medical silicone and durable materials reduce the risk of mechanical failure and can be used longer without any problems.
-
Patient’s Lifestyle
Regular exercise, a healthy diet and avoiding smoking/alcohol prolong the life of the prosthesis. Excessive physical strain may adversely affect the durability of the device.
-
Chronic Diseases
Diabetes, cardiovascular diseases or recurrent urinary tract infections are among the risks that can shorten the duration of prosthesis use.
-
Hygiene and Care
Following the rules of postoperative care and regular medical check-ups reduce the risk of infection and prolong the life of the prosthesis.
-
Surgical Method
Performing the surgery by experienced specialists and using anti-infection techniques ensures that the prosthesis works healthily for a long time.
Things to Consider to Extend Penile Prosthesis Life
The main points that patients should pay attention to in order to use the penile prosthesis for a long time without any problems are as follows:
- Do Not Neglect Regular Doctor Checks: Going to the control appointments determined after the surgery ensures that the prosthesis continues to work in a healthy way.
- Pay Attention to Hygiene Rules: Good personal hygiene and keeping the surgical site clean reduces the risk of infection and prolongs the life of the prosthesis.
- Avoid Excessive Physical Strain: Avoiding sudden and intense physical activities that can damage the prosthesis increases the durability of the device.
- Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Habits such as a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol both protect general health and contribute positively to the duration of use of the prosthesis.
- Seek Expert Opinion Without Delay in Doubtful Situations: In case of symptoms such as functional changes in the prosthesis, pain or swelling, consulting a doctor immediately prevents bigger problems.
Penile Prosthesis Prices 2025
Penile Prosthesis Prices 2025The cost varies depending on the type and brand of prosthesis used, the hospital where the surgical procedure is performed and the experience of the surgeon. Inflatable prostheses are generally more costly than flexible prostheses due to their technological structure and the comfort they offer. Therefore, the price range may vary depending on the needs of the patient and the preferred prosthesis model.
One of the expert physicians in the field Assoc. Dr. Ömer Bayrak emphasizes that penile prosthesis surgeries should not be evaluated only on price, patient health and long-term satisfaction are the priority. Appropriate prosthesis selection and surgery performed by an experienced surgeon are critical for the success of the treatment and the life of the prosthesis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many years can a penile prosthesis be used?
Penile prostheses can usually be used for 10-15 years. However, this period may vary depending on the type of prosthesis used, material quality and the patient’s lifestyle.
2. Can a penile prosthesis be used for life?
No, prostheses are not guaranteed for life. It may need to be replaced due to mechanical failure, infection or other medical reasons.
3. What happens if the penile prosthesis fails?
When the prosthesis malfunctions, erection cannot be achieved. In this case, the device must be replaced by surgical intervention.
4. Is it possible to extend the life of the penile prosthesis?
Yes, it is. Regular medical check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, paying attention to hygiene rules and keeping chronic diseases under control can prolong the life of the prosthesis.
5. If the prosthesis fails after penile prosthesis surgery, do I have to undergo surgery again?
Yes. A new surgical intervention is required to replace the failed prosthesis with a new one.