A Word about Penile Implants

There is a great deal of information about the risks and benefits of penile implants that can be explained to you by a urologist or your nurse. If you have had prostate surgery, many urologists recommend that you wait for about 6 months before having an implant placed. There are several kinds of penile implants. Two of the most frequently used prostheses are the semirigid silicone rod and the expandable cylinder. In the cylinder type, the prosthesis is put into your penis and is connected by a tubing system to a fluid-filled bulb that is located in your testicle. When erection is desired, this bulb is squeezed, the fluid passes into the prostheses and your penis becomes erect. After sex, the bulb is again squeezed (once), the fluid goes back into the bulb and your penis is no longer erect. Although this is the preferred prostheses, it is also the most expensive. For a more in depth explanation, please see the American Cancer Society's booklet written by Leslie Schover (see references).