Copyright 2008 Edward Karpman, M.D. All rights reserved.
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Penile Prosthesis
Penile Implant Surgery
Warning - Prior to viewing this page, please be advised that explicit
pictures are shown. Minors and people offended by such graphic
material should not proceed in viewing this page.
Penile Prosthesis / Penile Implant
The penile implant has been a mainstay of treatment for erectile dysfunction for over 30 years.
There have been over 300,000 penile implants inserted worldwide allowing surgeons to offer this
form of therapy with the confidence of knowing that penile implants are a safe, reliable and
effective way of treating even the most severe cases of erectile dysfunction (ED). Penile implants
have a greater than 90% patient and partner satisfaction rating.
What is a Penile Prosthesis / Penile Implant?
The penile implant is a synthetic prosthetic device that is inserted directly into the corpora
cavernosa to provide a man an erection that is adequately rigid for penetrating intercourse. All of
the components of a penile prosthesis are placed under the skin and not visible to unsuspecting
people. Each penile prosthesis is custom fit to the patient at the time of surgery. There are two
manufacturers of FDA approved penile prosthetics in the United States. Both manufacturers
provide a variety of penile implants for treating ED. The technology involved in manufacturing a
penile prosthesis is patented and has been refined over the last 30 years to provide a reliable
and durable prosthetic device.
What types of Penile Implant is right for me?
There are three general different designs when it comes to penile implants. Penile implants are
made in a malleable form, two-piece and three-piece inflatable prosthesis. Based on manual
dexterity, medical co-morbidities and previous surgeries, Dr Karpman will help select the penile
prosthesis that is right for you.
The malleable prosthesis is
ideal for patients with problems
with manual dexterity or
significant previous abdominal
surgery
The 2-piece prosthesis is ideal
for patients with significant
previous abdominal surgery but
who desire a more natural
feeling erection than a malleable
prosthesis can offer.
The 3-piece prosthesis is ideal
for patients who desire a natural
feeling erection. The 3-piece
penile prosthesis is completely
flaccid when deflated and more
rigid when erect than a 2-piece
prosthesis.
Does Dr Karpman perform the minimally invasive penile implant procedure?
Yes, Dr Karpman has performed both the traditional penoscrotal and the minimally invasive
infrapubic approach. The preference is to always perform the minimally invasive infrapubic
approach because of the small (3 cm) incision, minimal dissection required, decreased healing
time and convalescence associated with the minimally invasive infrapubic approach. The
surgery is done under general or regional anesthesia and takes under 30 minutes for the entire
procedure. Patients are able to cycle the pump mechanism and resume normal activities faster
than with the penoscrotal approach. You can watch a full length video of Dr Karpman performing
the minimally invasive penile implant surgery:
Does a Penile Implant look and feel like a natural erection?
The patient satisfaction rate in published studies of penile implant surgery is over 95% and this
is largely attributed to the natural look and feel of penile implants. Many patients are surprised to
find out that there are no external devices and that everything is concealed under the skin for
discretion. Oftentimes, patients will request to see photos of previous penile implant
procedures. We have included pre-operative photos, intra-operative photos and final cosmetic
results of the flaccid and inflated penile prosthesis in the following section.
Flaccid Penile Prosthesis
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Inflated Penile Prosthesis
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Immediately Post-Op Photo
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Six Week Post-Op Flaccid Photo
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Six Week Post-Op Erect Photo
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Six Week Post-Op Flaccid Photo
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Six Week Post-Op Erect Photo
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Immediately Post-Operative Photo
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What is the cost of penile implant surgery?
Patients are always surprised to learn that most major insurance carriers and Medicare will cover
the entire cost of penile implant surgery. For those patients with Medicare insurance and a
supplemental plan, there are usually no out of pocket costs for the operation. The actual cost of
the prosthesis itself is approximately $8,500 dollars. There are additional costs for hospital,
anesthesia and professional services. Dr Karpman will arrange a fixed cost package for patients
who require a cash rate for the operation.
What is the next step?
Patients are encouraged to contact Dr Karpman's office at (650)-962-4662 to schedule an
appointment to discuss the treatment options available for men interested in penile implant
surgery.
What are the post-operative instructions after penile prosthesis surgery?
Please download a pre-printed copy of Dr Karpman's post-operative instructions to understand
what to expect after the procedure. Click here.
If you would like a copy of the instructions in Spanish, click here.
If you would like a copy of the instructions in Russian, click here.
Does size matter?
Every patient asks about sizing the penile prosthesis. They are interested in knowing if we can
increase the length of their penis simultaneously at the time of the operation or if we can place a
bigger size prosthesis than their actual penis. The short answer is: No. However, there are steps
that can be taken pre-operatively to increase your penile length and consequently the size of the
prosthesis inserted. Dr Karpman places all of his patients on a penile lengthening protocol prior
to the operation. Additional steps are taken at the time of surgery to maximize penile length.