Private Malleable Penile Implant Surgery

The procedure is performed as daycase surgery under either a general anaesthetic or a spinal anaesthetic. Most operations take between 45 and 80 minutes.

During surgery, your consultant makes a small incision either:

• at the base of the penis where it meets the scrotum

• just above the penis beneath the pubic bone

The most suitable approach depends on your anatomy and your consultant's judgement.

The erectile chambers are carefully prepared before inserting 2 implant rods, which are individually measured and trimmed to achieve the best fit. Once the implants are securely positioned, the incision is closed using dissolvable stitches.

Most patients return home later the same day, although some stay overnight depending on their individual circumstances.

The implant is completely concealed inside the body. There are no external parts, and it does not affect urination, orgasm, or the sensation of ejaculation.

It's important to understand that this procedure permanently replaces the body's natural erectile mechanism. If the implant is removed in the future, natural erections cannot usually be restored.

Malleable penile implants provide one of the most reliable long-term treatments available for severe erectile dysfunction.

Published long-term studies report:

• device survival of around 88% to 90% after 5 years

• device survival of around 84% to 86% after 10 years

• patient satisfaction rates consistently above 85%

• curvature correction in around 94% of men with Peyronie's disease

Although the implant does not increase penile length or girth, many men report significant improvements in confidence, intimacy, and overall quality of life after surgery.

Penile implant surgery has an excellent safety record when performed by experienced specialist urologists. However, every operation carries some risks.

Possible early complications include:

• infection, which occurs in approximately 1% to 3% of cases and may require removal of the implant

• bleeding or bruising around the surgical site

• wound healing problems

• temporary difficulty passing urine

Less common longer-term risks include:

• mechanical failure of the implant, although this is very uncommon with malleable devices

• erosion of the implant through the skin or urethra

• perceived shortening of the penis

• discomfort while positioning the implant

• awareness of the implant during intercourse by you or your partner

Your consultant will explain these risks fully during your consultation and answer any questions before you decide whether to proceed.

Your preparation begins with a comprehensive consultation.

Before surgery, your consultant will:

• review your medical history

• discuss previous erectile dysfunction treatments

• examine your penis and the surrounding anatomy

• check for signs of infection

• review your current medications

• discuss whether any blood-thinning medication should be temporarily stopped

• advise whether circumcision should be performed at the same time if appropriate

To reduce the risk of infection, you’ll usually be asked to shower using an antiseptic wash the evening before surgery and again on the morning of your procedure.

You’ll also receive antibiotics before the operation begins, and where appropriate, the implant may be coated with an antibiotic.

As with any procedure performed under general anaesthetic, you’ll receive instructions about fasting before your surgery.

Following surgery, your penis will usually be dressed and gently secured in an upright position against your abdomen for several days. This helps reduce swelling and supports healing.

Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal during the first week. Most men find that simple pain relief medication is sufficient to control symptoms.

Recovery usually follows this timeline:

• first week – rest, wound care, oral antibiotics if prescribed, and gradual reduction in swelling

• 1 to 2 weeks – most men return to office-based work and normal daily activities

• 4 to 6 weeks – follow-up appointment to assess healing and demonstrate the correct positioning of the implant

• after 4 to 6 weeks (depending on rate of recovery) – sexual activity can usually resume once your consultant confirms healing is complete

During recovery you should avoid:

• heavy lifting

• strenuous exercise

• cycling

• activities that place pressure on the pelvis or perineum

Do not have sexual intercourse until your consultant confirms it is safe to do so.

Please contact our Urology centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our urology specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient. We have one of the largest and most experienced teams of surgical andrologists in the UK. 

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book malleable penile implant surgery, you must be referred by either your GP or a consultant urologist following a consultation. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our urology specialists, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.