The Various Types of Penile Implants
Penile implants are just one of several options for impotence treatment and should be considered after other options have failed; such as Viagra, pumps and injection therapy. Penile implants are available in two types; semi-rigid and inflatable. The simplest one is a pair of semi-rigid malleable (bendable) silicone covered rods which placed in the corpus cavernosum of the penis and are physically bent to be erect or down. The inflatable penile implant comes in two styles; one devise comes with two cylinders placed in the penis and a combination pump / reservoir placed in the scrotal sac. The other inflatable implant contains two cylinders, a reservoir and a separate pump. The reservoir is placed behind the abdominal wall, the pump in the scrotal sac and the rods in the corpus cavernosum of the penis.
The advantages of the semi-rigid penile implants are: very simple construction, least risk of malfunction, and simple to place. The disadvantage is a semi-permanent erection, which may be uncomfortable. The advantages of the three unit inflatable implant are: a more natural form of erection and total erection control. The disadvantages are: a more complex unit which yields a higher chance of mechanical failure, most expensive and possible undesired erection. The advantages of the two unit inflatable penile implant are: fewer components than the previous three unit model and somewhat easier to place. The disadvantages are: when inflated the penis may feel less fuller and firmer than the three unit implant.
The Risks Associated With Penile Implants
Each surgical procedure carries a certain amount of risk. Your surgeon will discuss the possible risks and complications of your surgery and will answer any questions you may have about those risks. Possible penile implant surgery risks include: infection, tissue erosion around the device, migration of the device, pain and malfunction.
The Cost of Penile Implant Surgery
Depending on your geographical region, your choice of surgeon, implant type and placement, the average cost of penile implant surgery is between $10,000 and $20,000; this procedure may be covered by insurance.Financing is available.
