Male Infertility

Penile prosthesis, commonly known as the "happiness stick," is a surgical treatment method applied in men who experience erectile dysfunction that does not respond to medication and other treatments. This condition, which significantly affects sexual life and self-confidence, can be permanently resolved through penile implant surgery. At Healme Clinic, with the use of the latest technologies and our expert medical team, penile prosthesis surgery is performed successfully and safely.

What is Penile Prosthesis?

Penile prosthesis refers to artificial devices placed inside the penis in men who have erectile dysfunction due to medical conditions and cannot achieve an erection naturally. These implants are placed into the spongy tissues of the penis and provide the hardness required for sexual intercourse by mimicking a natural erection.

In Which Cases Is It Used?

Penile prosthesis is typically used when oral medications, vacuum devices, or injection therapies have failed to produce results. It is most commonly applied in cases such as:

Erectile dysfunction caused by diabetes
Erectile dysfunction following prostate, bladder, or colon surgeries
Neurological diseases (e.g., spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis)
Priapism (prolonged painful erection) leading to tissue damage
Psychogenic (psychological) causes not responding to treatment
Congenital or acquired penile deformities (e.g., Peyronie’s disease)

At Healme Clinic, patients are carefully evaluated with a multidisciplinary approach, and the most appropriate treatment method is selected.

Types of Penile Prosthesis

There are two main types of penile prostheses:

Malleable (Semirigid) Prostheses

These prostheses consist of bendable rods placed inside the penis. They allow the penis to remain in a fixed position but can be easily bent upward or downward when needed. Advantages include ease of use, lower cost, and fewer mechanical parts. They are especially suitable for patients with limited manual dexterity.

Inflatable (Hydraulic) Prostheses

These are more advanced systems consisting of two or three parts:

Two-piece system: Includes cylinders and a pump-reservoir unit placed in the scrotum.
Three-piece system: Consists of two cylinders, a pump in the scrotum, and a fluid reservoir in the abdomen.

Inflatable prostheses allow the penis to be in a natural flaccid state when not in use and to become erect only when desired. They offer a more natural appearance and function but have a slightly higher risk of mechanical failure.

At Healme Clinic, the most suitable prosthesis type is selected based on the patient’s age, lifestyle, physical condition, and expectations.

How Is the Surgery Performed?

Penile prosthesis surgery is performed under general or spinal anesthesia and typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. During the procedure:

An incision is made at the base of the penis or the lower abdomen.
The erectile tissues (corpora cavernosa) are prepared, and the prosthesis is inserted.
If a hydraulic prosthesis is used, the pump and reservoir are also placed.
The surgical site is carefully closed with stitches.

Postoperatively, patients are usually discharged within 24 to 48 hours.

Postoperative Recovery Process

The recovery period after penile prosthesis surgery is generally comfortable. Pain, swelling, and mild discomfort may occur in the first few days. These symptoms can be easily managed with painkillers and cold applications. Most patients can return to daily activities within one week.

The prosthesis is usually activated 4–6 weeks after the operation. During this period, regular check-ups and instructions on the use of the device are provided at Healme Clinic.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, penile prosthesis surgery carries some risks, although the likelihood is low in experienced hands:

Infection: The risk is minimized with sterile techniques and antibiotics.
Bleeding and hematoma: Rare and usually temporary.
Prosthesis malfunction or breakage: Can be corrected with revision surgery.
Pain and discomfort: Generally temporary and manageable.
Tissue erosion or prosthesis migration: Very rare and mostly preventable with proper technique.

At Healme Clinic, every precaution is taken to minimize these risks.

Life After Penile Prosthesis

Patients who receive a penile prosthesis experience a significant improvement in their sexual life and self-confidence. Some key points about life after the surgery include:

The prosthesis does not interfere with ejaculation or orgasm.
Natural sensation and sexual pleasure are preserved.
Your partner cannot detect the prosthesis from the outside.
It does not affect fertility (ability to have children).

Patients report high satisfaction rates, particularly with inflatable prostheses, which offer a more natural experience.

Psychological and Sexual Counseling

At Healme Clinic, psychological support and sexual therapy services are also offered during the pre- and post-operative period. Erectile dysfunction often affects not only physical health but also emotional and relational well-being. Counseling contributes to better adaptation and satisfaction for both the patient and their partner.

Penile Prosthesis Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of penile prosthesis surgery may vary depending on the type of implant, the hospital stay, and the patient’s medical condition. Some public health insurance systems or private health insurances may partially or fully cover the cost. The team at Healme Clinic provides detailed information and support regarding this process.

Why Choose Healme Clinic?

Healme Clinic offers comprehensive care in the field of penile prosthesis with its modern infrastructure, experienced surgical team, and patient-centered approach. From the first examination to postoperative follow-up, patients are treated with care, confidentiality, and professionalism.