A penile prosthesis is a surgical treatment option for individuals experiencing sexual dysfunction. It can be highly effective, especially in cases of erectile dysfunction (ED),where the penis cannot achieve or maintain an erection. Commonly known as the “happy stick,” this device is a prosthetic mechanism implanted inside the penis. It is generally offered as a last-line treatment option for restoring erections.
A penile prosthesis is typically preferred in cases of erectile dysfunction that do not respond to other treatment methods. When options such as oral medications (e.g., PDE5 inhibitors),vacuum erection devices, injection therapies, or regenerative treatments like shock wave therapy or cellular injections are ineffective, penile prosthesis implantation becomes an alternative solution.
It may also be recommended for individuals who have lost sexual function due to penile cancer, prostate cancer treatment, trauma, surgical interventions, or conditions such as Peyronie’s disease causing significant penile deformity.
Penile prosthesis implantation may not be suitable for every patient and requires careful medical evaluation. It is generally appropriate for individuals with permanent erectile dysfunction who are otherwise in good general health.
Conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, a history of infections, or bleeding disorders may complicate the procedure. In addition, penile prosthesis implantation is not usually recommended for patients whose erectile dysfunction is primarily due to psychological causes.
Penile prostheses are generally classified into two main categories:
Penile prosthesis surgery is a surgical procedure considered a last-resort treatment for sexual dysfunction. During the operation, a prosthesis is implanted into the penile tissues that are unable to achieve an erection. This procedure can help the patient regain sexual function. For a successful outcome, the patient’s overall physical health, psychological status, and the type of prosthesis are carefully evaluated.
Penile prosthesis surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a small incision is made either in the penis or the scrotal area, and an appropriately sized prosthesis is inserted. In inflatable prostheses, the pumping mechanism is placed in the abdominal or pelvic region. The operation typically takes 1–2 hours, and the patient may be discharged after a few hours of observation. Patients are generally advised to avoid sexual intercourse for 4–6 weeks after surgery.
The cost of penile prosthesis surgery varies depending on the type of procedure, the prosthesis used, and the patient’s condition. As of 2026, the price range for penile prosthesis surgery may vary widely, approximately between 250,000 TL and 400,000 TL depending on the type of device used. These costs may differ between private hospitals and clinics. In cases not covered by public insurance, patients are responsible for the expenses.
The lifespan of a penile prosthesis depends on the material and type of device used. Inflatable prostheses typically last between 10 and 15 years, although mechanical wear or malfunction may occur over time. Malleable (semi-rigid) prostheses may have a longer functional lifespan.
Penile prosthesis implantation is a surgical procedure and therefore carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, mechanical failure, and erectile complications. Some patients may also experience discomfort or pain during sexual activity after implantation. In cases of device malfunction, additional surgical intervention may be required.
The size of penile prostheses varies depending on the patient’s anatomy and the surgeon’s selection. On average, penile prostheses range from 10 cm to 20 cm in length. However, the size is customized to ensure optimal sexual satisfaction for the patient.
The diameter also varies according to the patient’s anatomy. Both length and girth are determined through careful intraoperative measurements. A penile prosthesis is generally not designed to increase penile length. Implanting a device that is significantly longer or shorter than the patient’s natural anatomy may lead to serious complications.
Penile prosthesis surgery is a specialized procedure that should be performed by experienced andrologists. The surgeon must be skilled enough to manage any potential complications that may arise after the operation. For some patients, both the surgical procedure and the recovery period may be challenging. Careful postoperative care is essential for a successful recovery. In addition, psychological preparation plays an important role in achieving a smooth recovery process.
A penile prosthesis is generally not noticeable from the outside. Inflatable prostheses, in particular, provide an appearance very similar to a natural erection. Malleable (semi-rigid) prostheses may sometimes be more noticeable, but with proper placement, visibility is usually minimal, and patients can position the penis in a way that is not externally apparent.
A 3-piece penile prosthesis is the most advanced type, offering the most natural erection results. It is an inflatable system consisting of three components: a pump placed in the scrotum, inflatable cylinders placed inside the penis, and a fluid reservoir placed in the abdominal area. This system provides the most natural erection experience for the user.
Yes, a penile prosthesis enables erections, making sexual intercourse and pleasure possible. The device is designed to function similarly to a natural erection, allowing patients to achieve satisfactory sexual activity. However, individual experiences may vary, and psychological support during recovery may be beneficial.
Ejaculation after penile prosthesis implantation is not directly affected by the device itself. Ejaculation depends on testicular sperm production, prostate secretions, and the neurological pathways involved in ejaculation. Therefore, penile prosthesis implantation does not impair the ability to ejaculate.
Patients who were able to ejaculate before surgery can generally continue to do so afterward. Since penile rigidity is maintained during intercourse, this may also provide an advantage, particularly for men with premature ejaculation.
Approximately 90% of patients and their partners report satisfaction with penile prosthesis surgery. Many patients express positive feedback as they regain sexual function and experience an improved quality of life. However, as with any surgical procedure, some patients may face challenges during the recovery period.
The lifespan of a penile prosthesis is generally between 10 and 15 years. During this period, mechanical wear, malfunction, or displacement may occur, which could require revision surgery.
Prof. Dr. Levent PeşkircioğluUrology & Andrology
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