Penile Prosthesis - Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. The glans does not enlarge and penetration may be awkward. The penis also may not be as firm as a natural erection.
2. Some models do not deflate easily; some degree of manual dexterity is required to operate any of the inflatable models, making them inappropriate for men with other neurological disorders such as stroke or Parkinson's disease.
3. The penis may not be completely flaccid, depending upon the model of prosthesis (most usually seen in semi-rigid or malleable implants).
4. Many men lose between 1–2 cm (.25 to .75 in) in length.
5. Following surgery, patients experience one to two weeks of moderate or occasionally severe pain, usually controlled with analgesics. This is most often due to scrotal swelling, which can be quite profound at times. Normal sexual intercourse can be resumed six to eight weeks post-operatively, pending clearance from the surgeon.
6. Not all men report complete satisfaction with the prosthesis.
7. Some studies indicate a partner satisfaction rate of 70% or less, due, some studies suggest, to heightened or unreasonable expectations. Many surgeons are now recommending that both partners be counseled pre-operatively regarding outcome and expectations.
8. The inflation of the devices is not instantaneous.
9. It can be difficult to conceal a prosthesis because the scrotal components are hard and irregularly shaped. A partner feeling the scrotum will notice this.
10. Manual stimulation can be painful.
11. There is a 2-10% complication rate, mainly as a result of infection or device failure. Complications include: uncontrolled bleeding after the surgery possibly leading to re-operation, scar tissue formation, erosion (tissue around the implant may break down) requiring removal or mechanical failure leading to re-operation and removal.