The penile enhancement implant is a surgical procedure involving the placement of a soft, medical-grade silicone device just beneath the skin of the penile shaft. This subcutaneous implant is designed to increase both the flaccid girth and the perceived length of the penis, rather than treating erectile dysfunction. The goal of this elective procedure is largely aesthetic, aiming to improve a patient’s self-confidence and body image. Understanding the complete journey, from the initial consultation to the final stable outcome, is necessary to form a complete picture of the “before and after” experience. This article provides an overview of the patient experience surrounding this surgical option.
Setting Expectations Before Surgery
The process begins with an extensive consultation designed to screen for psychological and physical suitability for the procedure. Candidates are typically men seeking improvement in flaccid girth and flaccid length, often those with a retractile penis or mild cosmetic irregularities. The medical team must ensure the patient has an appropriate psychological profile, as unrealistic expectations can lead to post-operative dissatisfaction. Surgeons often use tools like a figure rating scale to gauge a patient’s body image perception and establish a realistic understanding of the potential outcome.
The preoperative phase requires meeting specific physical criteria, which often include being circumcised and a non-smoker, to minimize the risk of complications. Patients must be informed that the implant primarily enhances girth, with flaccid length improvement being a secondary effect, and it does not guarantee an increase in erect length. A discussion of potential limitations is required, including the possibility of erosion, infection, or the need for revision surgery. Recognizing these risks and setting achievable aesthetic goals are fundamental steps taken before a patient is cleared for surgery.
Navigating the Post-Operative Recovery
The immediate period following the procedure is characterized by managing significant swelling and discomfort at the surgical site. Pain medication is prescribed to alleviate the initial discomfort, which is often greatest in the first 48 to 72 hours. Patients are instructed to use cold packs intermittently and keep the scrotum elevated to help minimize post-operative edema and bruising. A Jackson-Pratt drain may be placed during the procedure to prevent fluid accumulation, typically remaining in place for two to three days.
During the first week, the initial intense discomfort should subside dramatically, allowing most patients to return to light, non-strenuous daily activities. The incision, often made in the scrotum to ensure a discreet scar, is expected to heal within the first five days. For approximately two weeks, patients must avoid heavy lifting or rigorous exercise to prevent strain on the incision and minimize the risk of bleeding or hematoma formation.
The swelling is a temporary but pronounced feature of the first month, and it is normal for the penis to appear significantly larger and somewhat distorted during this time. Patients are typically advised to wear supportive undergarments for several weeks to maintain a favorable position for healing. Sexual activity, including masturbation, is strictly prohibited for six to eight weeks. This allows the tissue around the implant to stabilize and the incision to heal completely. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing progress, and the surgeon provides clearance before sexual activity can resume.
Assessing Long-Term Results and Function
The final, stable “after” state is typically assessed once the healing process is complete, which can take three to six months for the swelling to resolve and the implant to settle. The primary aesthetic result is a substantial increase in girth, with clinical data showing an average increase of approximately 3.4 centimeters, or about 37 percent, in flaccid girth. Flaccid length is also significantly improved, with some studies reporting an average increase of over four centimeters.
The implant is designed to conform to the natural shape of the penis, creating a durable and natural-appearing result. Because the device is placed subcutaneously, above the erectile tissue, it does not interfere with the biomechanics of an erection, nor does it affect sensation, orgasm, or ejaculation. The enhanced flaccid size contributes to a high rate of patient satisfaction, often reported in studies to be over 80 percent, with partners also reporting high satisfaction levels.
Noting the potential long-term complications is necessary. The most common issues are seroma, a fluid collection, and infection, with rates generally ranging from 2 to 5 percent and 1 to 3 percent, respectively. The most serious complication is implant erosion, where the device pushes through the skin, which occurs in a small percentage of cases and necessitates surgical removal. Device longevity and stability are favorable.