What Is an Inflatable Penile Implant?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to attain and sustain an erection. Erection problems typically occur when there is an issue related to the blood supply to the penis.

Fortunately, there are many treatment options available today for erectile dysfunction, including penile implants. The most popular type is the inflatable version. Let’s talk about how an inflatable penile implant works, and where you can go to find out whether this might be a good solution for you.

What Are Penile Implants?

Penile implants are a safe, effective, and permanent treatment option for ED. These are small mechanical devices that are installed into the penis. Penile implants can come in two forms: semirigid or inflatable penile implants.

An inflatable penile implant, in particular, has parts that are also placed inside the scrotum and lower abdomen. Unlike semirigid implants that always feel firm, inflatable implants look and feel natural both when erected (inflated) and flaccid (deflated).

Types of Inflatable Implants

There are two types of inflatable penile implants: three-piece and two-piece. Let’s go over how they are similar and how they differ:

Three-Piece Inflatable Penile Implant

This is the most popular type of inflatable implant, and it includes three components:

• A reservoir with fluid, placed under the abdominal wall
• A pump and release valve, placed in the scrotum
• Inflatable cylinders, placed in the shaft

By pressing the pump in the scrotum, you can achieve an erection as the fluid is released into the cylinders. You can decide how long you want to sustain the erection. Afterward, you release the erection by draining the fluid via the valve in the scrotum. The fluid is stored again in the reservoir until you use it the next time.

This type of inflatable implant creates the most natural erection. However, it also has more parts, and therefore more potential of requiring repair later.

Two-Piece Inflatable Penile Implant

The main difference between the two-piece penile implant and its three-piece counterpart is the separated reservoir. In the three-piece implant, the fluid supply is located under the abdominal wall, away from the pump in the scrotum. However, in a two-piece inflatable, the reservoir is part of the pump.

The advantage of having a two-piece implant is that there are fewer components to worry about malfunctioning. However, it provides a less-firm erection as compared to the three-piece implant.

Penile Implant Specialist in Concord and Charlotte, NC

Here at Carolina Urology Partners, urologist and men’s health expert, Dr. Richard Natale can treat your erectile dysfunction in the best way that works for your body. He has helped many men improve their sexual function and regain their self-confidence.

For your convenience, we have offices in Concord and Charlotte, North Carolina. For inquiries or to book a consultation, call us now at (704) 786-5131 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!