Nesbit and Lue Procedures for Peyronie’s Disease

Both procedures are performed under general anaesthetic, meaning you’ll be asleep throughout the surgery. The operation usually takes between 60 and 120 minutes.

Before surgery, your consultant may assess the curvature by examining photographs of your erection or by inducing an artificial erection during the procedure.

Nesbit procedure

The Nesbit procedure involves removing small sections of tissue from the side of the penis opposite the scar tissue. The surgeon then closes the area with stitches to straighten the penis.

This technique is often used for more severe or complex curvatures.

Lue procedure

The Lue procedure, also known as penile plication, is a less invasive variation. Instead of removing tissue, the surgeon places permanent stitches in the longer side of the penis to straighten it.

This approach may be suitable for milder curvature and can involve a slightly shorter recovery time.

During the procedure

Your surgeon will:

• make a small incision, usually around the head of the penis

• carefully expose the tissue causing the curvature

• assess the degree of bending

• straighten the penis using either the Nesbit or Lue technique

• check the final appearance using an artificial erection

• close the incision with dissolvable stitches

Most patients return home on the same day, although occasionally an overnight stay may be recommended.

Nesbit and Lue procedures are generally safe and effective, particularly when performed by our experienced urological surgeons. However, as with any operation, there are some risks and possible side effects.

Potential risks include:

• temporary swelling and bruising

• pain or discomfort during recovery

• penile shortening

• reduced sensation or numbness (usually temporary)

• recurrence of curvature over time

• palpable stitches or firmness under the skin

• bleeding or infection

• erectile dysfunction, which is uncommon

• dissatisfaction with cosmetic appearance or straightness

Your consultant will discuss the benefits and risks with you in detail before surgery and answer any questions you may have.

Before surgery, you’ll attend a consultation with one of our specialist urologists. They’ll assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and confirm whether surgery is appropriate for you.

You may need tests before the procedure, such as:

• physical examination

• penile ultrasound scan

• photographs of the curvature during erection

• blood tests

As the procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, you’ll need to fast before surgery. Your consultant will give you clear instructions about when to stop eating and drinking.

You should also:

• arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure

• avoid smoking before surgery, as this can slow healing

• tell your consultant about any medications you take, especially blood thinners

• avoid shaving the surgical area unless advised otherwise

After surgery, it’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for the first few days. Most patients manage this well with over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

You’ll usually be able to go home on the same day once you’ve recovered from the anaesthetic. Because of the effects of anaesthesia, you should not drive yourself home.

Recovery after surgery

Your consultant will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support your recovery. These may include:

• keeping the surgical area clean and dry

• wearing supportive underwear to reduce discomfort

• avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for around 2 to 4 weeks

• avoiding sexual activity for around 6 weeks

• taking prescribed antibiotics if recommended

• attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing

Many patients will return to desk-based work within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on comfort levels and the type of work they do.

Erections during recovery

It’s common to have spontaneous erections while healing, especially during sleep. These can feel uncomfortable initially, but usually improve as recovery progresses.

Most patients notice a significant improvement in penile straightness once healing is complete. Some degree of penile shortening can occur after surgery, and your consultant will discuss this with you beforehand.

The cost of private Nesbit and Lue procedures at Welbeck depends on several factors, including the complexity of the surgery and whether additional investigations are required.

Please contact our team for up-to-date pricing information and available payment options.

Our consultants are recognised by major private health insurers. We also provide care for self-paying patients.

At Welbeck, our urology specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

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 a Nesbit or Lue procedure, you must be referred by either your GP or a urology specialist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a specialist urologist, 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.