Deep Dive

The Modern Man's Guide to Penile Implants

If you're dealing with ED (erectile dysfunction) , you know how frustrating it can be. Pills don't work reliably for 50% of men after just a few years. Injections kill spontaneity. And vacuum pumps?

Let's be honest — nothing ruins the moment quite like assembling medical equipment.

But imagine never again feeling that moment of dread in the bedroom. No more awkward explanations, no more disappointed partner, no more crushing blow to your confidence.

Instead, you're ready whenever the moment feels right - just like you used to be.

A penile implant gives you something other treatments can't: reliability. So, how does this thing actually work?

There are two main types, both entirely inside the body with nothing on the outside — so unless you tell someone, they won't have a clue:

1. Inflatable Implants – These have two fluid-filled cylinders in the penis, a pump in the scrotum, and a fluid reservoir in the abdomen. Several quick squeezes of the pump fills the implant creating the erection, and another squeeze of the pump deflates the device  when you're done.

2. Malleable (Semi-Rigid) Implants – These are bendable rods that stay firm and can be manually adjusted up or down when needed. Simple, reliable, and always ready.

Neither affects sensation or orgasm. You're still you—just with a reliable solution.

If you’re following me on Instagram or Facebook (you’re following me, right?), I shared the internal workings of a penile implant this week.

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The Solution That Works Every Time

Think about all the time you've spent planning around pills, timing injections, or fiddling with devices. Now imagine being ready whenever the moment is right.

No timing, no planning, no uncertainty. Just you and your partner, enjoying spontaneous intimacy again.

That's the difference an implant makes. Unlike other treatments that can fail unpredictably or lose effectiveness over time, an implant gives you control.

Once you're healed, you decide when and how long. No waiting to see if it works and  no awkward moments.

From Surgery to Success in Four Weeks

“What’s all this talk about spontaneity” you may ask, thinking to yourself, “Surgery is not at all spontaneous!” You are correct but I think it’s worth pointing a few things out.

Here’s what the typical man undergoing penile implant surgery can expect:

Day of Surgery

• One-hour outpatient procedure

• Head home the same day

First Week

• Some soreness, bruising and swelling (completely normal)

• I recommend a couple of weeks of downtime and light activities, with no heavy lifting more than 20lbs

Week 4

• Resume normal activity including lifting >20lbs

• Follow-up with the urologist to learn how to inflate and deflate the device 

After that? Ready to enjoy spontaneous intimacy again, without restriction. Things are likely to be a little bit tender still and maybe using the device feels clumsy, but in time it becomes simple to use.

And one more thing, you don’t have to tell friends and family what operation you are having done.  If they ask, one option is to say you’re having a big hernia operation.

A second option is to say ‘none of your business!’ 🙂

Meet Thomas, Thriving at 81

A career in sexual medicine isn't for everyone. It's a sensitive topic that many doctors shy away from. But every week, I see how these procedures transform lives and relationships.

That's what makes this work so rewarding.

Take Thomas (not his real name), for example. At 81, he came to us wondering if it was too late for him. Three months after his implant surgery, he sent me this message:

“The recent surgery has made my wife’s and my life better in many ways. I am not depressed anymore…our sexual connection is better than I ever really expected, no drug hangovers. We don’t have to plan or think other than our desires. Even the sex has been better and richer than any other time in our marriage.”

Thomas isn't alone. Stories like his remind me why I chose this field. Every successful outcome means another couple has found their way back to intimacy and connection.

The Size Question Every Man Asks

A lot of guys worry about size after getting an implant. Here's the deal—after surgery, it might seem like your penis is shorter. Why?

Because ED itself can lead to shrinkage over time, and after an implant, you're seeing the actual usable length you have now.

It's also not fair to compare to your size in your 20s—aging naturally changes things and when men suffer from ED the penis atrophies, becoming shorter.  It’s the old ‘use it or lose it’ phenomenon.

But what you get with an implant is a firm, reliable erection, and many men find that confidence matters way more than an extra fraction of an inch.

Some doctors recommend using a vacuum device before surgery to help maximize length, so be sure to ask about that.

What Your Partner Needs to Know

Most partners are relieved that intimacy is back on the table.

Since the implant is completely internal, it won't change their experience — in fact, many report that the reliability and confidence it brings actually makes things better.

Here's what couples should know going in:

• The implant feels natural and spontaneous during intimacy

• You'll both need some patience during the 6-week recovery period

• Having an open conversation before surgery helps set expectations

• If it's been a while since you've been intimate, take things slowly at first

• Your partner can't tell you have an implant unless you share that information

Remember to have an honest discussion with your partner about the decision to get an implant. Open communication leads to better outcomes by ensuring you're both on the same page.

Four Myths That Stop Men From Getting Help

Here's what might surprise you: 85% of implants are still functioning perfectly after 10 years. Yet four persistent myths keep men from experiencing this remarkable success rate.

Let’s tackle the most common concerns head on:

• Myth 1: "I won't feel anything anymore"

  The truth? Men report the same or better sensation after surgery. In fact, many say their orgasms feel more intense because they're no longer distracted by performance anxiety.

• Myth 2: "Everyone will notice something's different"

  Reality check: Unless you choose to tell someone, nobody will know. The implant is completely internal, and partners consistently report that intimacy feels natural and spontaneous.

• Myth 3: "It won't last long"

  Here's the surprising truth: While pills stop working for 50% of men within a few years, implants have an 85% success rate after a decade. Some men have had the same implant working perfectly for over 15 years.

• Myth 4: "It will affect my daily life"

  The reality might shock you: You can travel, exercise, pee normally - everything you do now. Even better? Most men forget they have an implant until they want to use it.

Back to Living Life Your Way

How does life change after getting an implant? Honestly? Not much. There is no maintenance required, and 85% of implants are still functioning 10 years after implantation.

Infections are rare, but if something feels off, get it checked out sooner rather than later. Be sure your urologist discusses the risks and benefits with you before agreeing to have an implant procedure.

How to Choose Your Surgeon

Not all urologists specialize in penile implants. If you’re considering one, you should see a men’s health urologist who specializes in prosthetic urology.

These doctors have the most experience with implants and can guide you through the process, from choosing the right type to ensuring you get the best results possible.

Start Your Success Story

If ED has been holding you back and nothing else has worked, an implant could be a solution. Whether it’s due to aging, diabetes, or another medical condition, it can restore both function and confidence.

The best way to find out if it’s a good fit? Have an honest conversation with your doctor, and if your doctor doesn't do implants or says 'no' consider a second opinion.

The implant manufacturers’ websites have doctor directories that are searchable by zip code to help you find a doctor.

A Better Life is Possible

If ED is messing with your confidence and your relationships, a penile implant could be a game-changer.

It’s discreet, reliable, and lets you get back to enjoying intimacy without stress.

If you’re even a little curious, talk to a men’s health urologist who specializes in prosthetics — you’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.