Penile prosthesis surgery is a method that can be applied for individuals seeking surgical solutions due to various health problems. One of the most curious issues about this operation is whether there will be scars on the skin after surgery. The scars that may occur after surgical procedures may vary from person to person, depending on the technique applied and the healing process. In this article, you can find simple and understandable answers to frequently asked questions about scar formation after penile prosthesis operation.
What is Penile Prosthesis?
Penile prosthesisis a surgical solution developed for individuals who have severe erectile dysfunction and cannot benefit from other treatment methods. These medical devices, which are implanted inside the body, help to reorganize one’s sexual life and offer improved options in terms of natural look and feel. Prostheses are generally divided into two main groups: bendable (semi-rigid) and inflatable models. Inflatable prostheses are more preferred due to their ease of use and natural feel. After the application, it is not noticeable from the outside and the person can easily continue his/her daily life. The surgery is usually completed in a short period of time and when the healing process proceeds in accordance with the physician’s recommendations, patients often achieve satisfactory results.
Where and How Prominent is the Scar After Penile Prosthesis Surgery?
Whether there will be scars after penile prosthesis surgery is one of the most frequently wondered issues by patients. This operation is usually performed through small incisions made in hidden areas. Surgeons prefer aesthetically appropriate areas so that the scars are not noticeable from the outside. The most common incision site is the groin or pouch (scrotum). This makes the scar almost invisible from the outside.
The prominence of the scars may vary depending on the patient’s skin structure, the care they take in the healing process and the suturing technique used during the operation. Although mild redness or puffiness is usually seen in the first few weeks, this appearance is greatly reduced over time. When appropriate care and doctor’s recommendations are followed, the permanence of the scars is minimized.
What Should Be Considered After Surgery To Prevent Scarring?
Minimal scarring after penile prosthesis surgery is largely related to the patient’s attention to the healing process. Paying attention to the hygiene of the surgical site helps to prevent scar formation by reducing the risk of infection. In the first days, the dressing should be applied as recommended by the surgeon and the area should be kept dry.
Also, avoiding heavy physical activity and tight clothing prevents damage to the stitches. It is important to protect this area during the healing process, as surgical scars that are directly exposed to sunlight may become discolored or prominent. Doctor-recommended healing creams or care products should be used regularly and a specialist should be consulted before using over-the-counter products.
When all these steps are taken carefully, the prominence of postoperative scars decreases and the skin regains a more natural appearance over time. A patient and conscious care process ensures both a healthy recovery and aesthetically satisfying results.
Does the Scar Differ According to the Type of Penile Prosthesis?
Penile prosthesis surgeries may show some differences in terms of the type of prosthesis used, incision site and surgical technique. This may also indirectly affect the visibility of the scars after the operation. Two main types of prosthesis are generally used: bendable (semi-rigid) and inflatable penile prostheses. Both types are inserted inside the body; however, the insertion technique may vary according to the surgeon’s preference and the anatomical structure of the patient.
Bendable prostheses usually require a simpler surgical procedure and the incision time may be shorter. This may reduce scarring. Inflatable models, on the other hand, have a more complex structure, so the operation time may be slightly longer and an extra placement procedure may be required for the pump part of the prosthesis. However, in this type of surgery, the incision is made in invisible areas and is carefully planned aesthetically.
Are Scars Permanent After Penile Prosthesis Surgery?
The permanence of scars after penile prosthesis surgery may vary depending on many factors. As in every surgical procedure, an incision is made in the skin in this operation, so scar formation cannot be completely prevented. However, thanks to the surgical techniques used, these scars usually remain in the natural folds of the body and lose their prominence over time.
The permanence of scars is directly related to the skin structure, age, genetic predisposition and postoperative care process. While scars may heal faster in individuals with young and elastic skin, the skin may recover later in some people. However, regular use of the care products recommended by the doctor can support wound healing and accelerate the fading of scars.