Operation for Peyronie’s disease

Why would I need an operation for Peyronie’s disease?

Most patients requiring this type of surgery have severe Peyronie’s disease that’s significantly affecting their ability to have or enjoy sex.

What symptoms does surgery for Peyronie’s disease address?

A surgical procedure to correct Peyronie’s disease can help to treat the following symptoms:

• An upwards curve in the penis when erect
• A hard lump or thickened area of skin called a plaque in the penis shaft
• Pain when having an erection
• A misshapen penis
• An inability to have sex
• Erectile dysfunction

When should you speak to your specialist about surgery for Peyronie’s disease?

If you have a bent or misshapen penis that’s causing you pain and/or distress, speak to your specialist about surgery to correct Peyronie’s disease. Also speak to your specialist about surgery if other, non-surgical, treatments such as vacuum pumps or injections to straighten your penis or medications such as Viagra haven’t worked.

How is surgery for Peyronie’s disease performed?

Surgery for Peyronie’s disease is carried out under a general anaesthetic and often requires an overnight stay in hospital. How long surgery may take will depend on the severity of your condition.

The most common surgery for Peyronie’s disease involves your surgeon cutting the outer layers of erectile tissue that are holding your penis in a curved shape and adding stitches in such a way that your penis remains straight.

If you have a thick plaque of skin causing your condition, your surgeon may remove it and replace the tissue with another piece of skin or a vein taken from elsewhere on your body. Other options include removing tissue opposite the curvature to even out the shape of your penis or using a surgical implant to straighten it out.

Sometimes, surgery to correct Peyronie’s disease can result in a loss of length and/or girth of your penis.

What is the recovery like for surgery for Peyronie’s disease?

Your recovery from surgery for Peyronie’s disease will depend on multiple factors, including your age, fitness level and the nature of your procedure and your general level of health.

You can expect some degree of pain and swelling following this kind of surgery, and to refrain from sexual activity until your surgeon is happy with your recovery.

Your surgeon will discuss the recovery process with you and recommend the best course of action for your recovery period.

Are there any risks/complications associated with surgery for Peyronie’s disease?

As with any medical procedure, it’s possible for risks or complications to arise. Speaking with your specialist or surgeon beforehand will help you avoid any adverse reactions.

Surgery for Peyronie’s disease has a relatively low risk of serious complications, but the following risks and complications can occur in a small number of cases:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Damage to the surrounding tissue and veins
• Loss of penis length and/or girth

How can I prepare for surgery for Peyronie’s disease?

Prior to surgery for Peyronie’s disease, your surgeon will discuss with you how best to prepare, as each patient is different with differing needs. It’s advisable to learn as much as you can about your procedure beforehand and discuss any concerns with your surgeon.

Common preparations for surgery include a general health assessment and routine blood tests, x rays or scans as requested by your surgeon.

A good level of general wellbeing will prepare you for a better outcome after surgery so it’s recommended that you eat healthily, exercise regularly if possible and cut back on smoking and drinking.

Prepare your home prior to surgery so that you’re comfortable whilst you’re recovering and plan to have someone take you home from hospital. Your specialist will discuss any specific preparations that you should make prior to surgery.

Are there alternatives for surgery for Peyronie’s disease?

In some cases, Peyronie’s disease can improve without surgery. Penile vacuum or traction devices can be helpful in straightening the penis over time and medications such as Viagra can help if you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction. However, in severe cases, surgery may be the best solution.

Your specialist will be able to discuss alternative procedures with you, depending on your circumstances.