A penile implant surgery, also known as penile prosthesis implantation, is a medical procedure designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) for men who have not responded to other treatments such as oral medications, vacuum erection devices, or penile injections. The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours and is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. Before the surgery, the patient undergoes a thorough medical evaluation to ensure they are a suitable candidate for the implant.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision either below the head of the penis or in the lower abdomen. Through this incision, the surgeon inserts the chosen type of penile implant. There are two main types of implants: inflatable and malleable (or semi-rigid). Inflatable implants consist of two cylinders placed in the penis, a pump placed in the scrotum, and a fluid reservoir placed in the abdomen. The patient can pump fluid into the cylinders to create an erection. Malleable implants are bendable rods that allow the penis to be positioned manually for intercourse. Once the implant is secured in place, the incision is closed with sutures. The patient is usually able to go home the same day or the next day, with recovery instructions to follow, including avoiding sexual activity for a prescribed period to ensure proper healing.