The Penile Implant Operation

Overview: What Makes This Procedure Special

The penile implant is inserted through a single small incision. One procedure – three components, all placed at precisely defined positions. That sounds manageable. In reality, it is one of the most demanding procedures in reconstructive urology.

Course of the Operation – Step by Step

Preparation

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and, thanks to our extensive experience, generally takes only around 90 minutes. The final implant size is determined based on the measurements taken during the consultation.

The Incision

A single small incision between the penis and scrotum – the so-called subcoronal approach. All three components are inserted from here. The skin is closed at the end in such a way that the resulting scar is barely visible later.

Placing the Cylinders

The two cylinders are precisely inserted into the natural erectile tissue. Their size – length and diameter – must be exactly right. Cylinders that are too short produce an unstable erection; cylinders that are too long can cause pain or lead to a breakthrough at the tip of the penis.

Positioning the Pump

The pump is positioned in the scrotum – discreet, easy to reach, but not visible or noticeably palpable. Its exact position determines how easy it is to operate.

Inserting the Reservoir

The reservoir is placed through the same access point behind the pubic bone in the lower abdomen. It must be completely invisible and non-palpable.

Wound Drainage and Closure

Once all components have been inserted, a wound drain is placed and the skin is closed. How long the drain is left in place has a demonstrable effect on the infection rate: leaving it in for 72 hours rather than only 24 measurably reduces the risk. In practice, this detail is known only to a very experienced surgeon.

Typical Errors With Inadequate Technique

• Incorrect implant length: unnatural appearance, instability, pain
• Cylinders too long: risk of breaking through the tip of the penis
• Poorly positioned pump: visible or difficult to operate
• Damage to tubing or cylinders caused by unsuitable instruments
• Inadequate disinfection: increased risk of infection
• Improper suturing: visible or painful scarring

Prof. Fraile Poblador trains other physicians specifically in avoiding these errors – as an officially certified proctor for Boston Scientific, Coloplast, and Promedon. The standard he teaches to others is the standard at which he himself operates.

Smoking, Diabetes, and Surgical Outcome

Two factors have a proven, substantial influence on wound healing and infection rate: smoking and diabetes.

We recommend complete abstinence from smoking for at least four weeks before and six weeks after the procedure, together with optimal blood glucose control in consultation with the patient's family doctor.

This relationship was a research focus of UGRS physician Dr. Jörn Siana, who has set international standards in this field.

Partner Satisfaction as a Benchmark

With high-quality implantation, partner satisfaction rises to as much as 88 percent. This is not a random figure – it depends directly on how natural the implant feels, how it functions, and how good the result looks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Operation

Schedule a Consultation

We are happy to answer questions about the operation in person.

The first step isn't a procedure – it's a conversation.