Why would a surgical penile implant (penile prosthesis) be used?

A surgical penile implant (also called a penile prosthesis) is a treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction (ED). The simplest type of prosthesis consists of a pair of bendable, silicone rods surgically implanted within the erection chambers of the penis. Today, many men choose a hydraulic, inflatable prosthesis that allows a man to have an erection whenever he chooses.

A penile implant is usually used when there is a clear medical cause for ED and when the problem is unlikely to resolve or improve naturally or with other medical treatments. Sometimes a penile prosthesis is implanted during surgery to reconstruct the penis when scarring has caused erections to curve.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 05/11/2016.

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