When it comes to men’s health—especially sensitive topics like erectile dysfunction (ED)—there’s often more misinformation than truth floating around. Penile implants, a surgical solution for ED, are no exception. Despite being a safe, effective treatment option for many men, they are surrounded by myths that may prevent people from seeking the help they need.
Let’s break down the most common myths and the facts behind them.
Myth #1: Penile implants are only for older men.
Fact: Age is not the main factor—quality of life is.
While many recipients of penile implants are older, this solution is available for any adult male struggling with ED who hasn’t found relief from other treatments (like pills or injections). It’s about how ED impacts your life and relationships, not your birth year.
Myth #2: You’ll lose sensation or the ability to orgasm.
Fact: Sensation and orgasm are usually unchanged.
A penile implant doesn’t interfere with the nerves responsible for sensation or climax. Most men report that their ability to orgasm is unaffected, and in some cases, it even improves due to renewed confidence and intimacy.
Myth #3: Everyone can tell you have an implant.
Fact: No one can tell—unless you tell them.
Modern penile implants are completely internal. Whether you opt for an inflatable or a malleable (semi-rigid) implant, it is completely concealed. You’ll look and feel natural to both yourself and your partner, as the implant is not visible.
Myth #4: Penile implants are dangerous or experimental.
Fact: They’re safe and well-established.
Penile implants have been used for over 40 years and are FDA-approved treatment options for erectile dysfunction. The surgery has a high success rate and a very low complication rate when performed by experienced urologists. For many men and their partners, it’s the most satisfying treatment option available, with satisfaction rates up to 98%
Myth #5: The implant makes your penis longer.
Fact: It restores rigidity—not length.
Penile implants are designed to provide reliable, dependable rigid erections whenever you want. They are not designed to increased penile length. Your erection will be no longer than your stretched penile length with an implant. It is important to discuss this with an expert penile implant surgeon during your consultation prior to the procedure.
Myth #6: You won’t be able to have spontaneous sex anymore.
Fact: Quite the opposite—spontaneity improves.
With an implant, there’s no waiting for pills or injections to kick in or worrying about timing. Although you won’t get a spontaneous natural erection, you are in full control of when you get an erection, how rigid your erection is, how much time you have an erection. Inflatable implants can be activated in seconds, and malleable implants are always ready.
Myth #7: Recovery takes forever.
Fact: Most men return to normal activities and are using their implant in weeks
The recovery process is generally straightforward. Within a few weeks, you can get back to most activities—and within about six weeks, many men can start using their penile implant. Your urologist will guide you every step of the way.
Myth #8: You are too old for a penile implant.
Fact: There’s no specific age limit for a penile implant.
Instead of age, it is important to focus on if you are healthy enough to undergo surgery and if the penile implant is the right option for you. It can improve the quality-of-life. In fact, many older men in their 70’s, 80’s and even 90’s, say it helps them feel more confident, maintain intimacy, and improve self-esteem.
Myth #9: Another myth could be “this seems like an extreme option”
Fact: It is an FDA approved treatment for ED and has been used for decades
Penile implants are not considered extreme – they are considered a highly effective treatment option, often times when pills and injections haven’t worked. Penile implants have been used for decades and have high satisfaction rates up to 98% among patients and their partners.
Myth #10: The head of the penis (the glans) will engorge
Fact: The implant mainly affects the size of the shaft
The head (glans) of the penis usually does not get larger or engorge from the penile implant, however it may still become engorged from sexual arousal. The shaft will feel firm or stiff, and you can achieve penetration regardless of whether the head of the penis is enlarged.
ED can take a toll on self-esteem and relationships, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your sex life. Penile implants are a reliable, discreet, and satisfying solution for men who would like to restore their erectile function. Don’t let myths and misinformation stand in the way of reclaiming your confidence and intimacy. If you’re curious or have more questions, Dr. Michael Granieri is a fellowship trained urologist who specializes in ED treatments and men’s sexual health at the Men’s Health Center of Excellence at the Conrad Pearson Clinic. Take the first step is simply start the conversation and get your questions answered.
