Penile Implant Archives | St Pete Urology

From Procedure to Confidence: Dr. Reid Graves on Inflatable Penile Prosthesis

St Pete Urology — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 06:13:23 +0000

Key Takeaways:

Penile prosthesis boasts an extraordinarily high success rate and patient satisfaction rates.
St. Pete Urology offers a supportive environment to help patients navigate the journey “from procedure to confidence”.
Penile prosthesis can help restore confidence and improve quality of life.

Investing in personal health can often seem daunting, especially when it entails navigating complicated medical jargon and procedures. However, understanding the process can dramatically ease any apprehension, build confidence, and ultimately transform lives. We sit down with board-certified urologist Dr. Reid Graves, who practices at St. Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL, to dissect the details and benefits of inflatable penile prosthesis.

De-Mystifying Penile Prosthesis

“Hi, I’m Dr. Reid Graves,” he begins. His demeanor exudes confidence, and his words are imbued with optimism, quickly putting us at ease. He continues, “After the penile prosthesis is placed, men will come back to the office for their normal post-operative check within a couple of weeks.”

Forgoing the dense medical language, he breaks down the process into simple terms. He explains that men return for a routine check-up, which is followed by an educational session six weeks post-operation. The focus of this session? “We’ll start teaching them how to use the device and pump the device up and down so that they’re able to use it,” he explains.

Being taught how to use the device might seem scary, but the process is gentle, patient, and encouraging. And the commitment to mastering this device? It pays off exponentially.

The Success Rates of Prosthesis

The penile prosthesis, Dr. Graves tells us, boasts an extraordinarily high success rate, and it has done so for decades. He shares, “The penile prosthesis has been around for decades and in fact has an extraordinarily high success rate.”

Notably, it doesn’t just have a high success rate — it also has outstanding patient satisfaction rates. Dr. Graves addresses the hesitations that some men may have about this invasive procedure. But his tone is reassuring. He asserts, “While some people are wary and nervous about having such an invasive procedure done, for many men it’s the last option that they have and in fact it has very high success rates and satisfaction rates.”

And it’s not just about the procedure’s effectiveness — it’s about how it transforms lives, bestowing newfound confidence and restoring a sense of normalcy for men.

Confidence Restored and Life Transformed

The combination of Dr. Graves’s expertise, his team’s care, and the effectiveness of the penile prosthesis leads to a transformative journey for patients. After weeks of following the procedure and learning to use the device, patients can regain their confidence and resume their active lifestyle. Their personal health investment pays off, and the result is an improved quality of life.

Discover the Benefits of Penile Prosthesis at St. Pete Urology

If you’re considering inflatable penile prosthesis and looking for a trusted urologist in St. Petersburg, Florida, turn to St. Pete Urology. With their patient-centered approach and a team of experienced professionals led by Dr. Reid Graves, they offer a supportive environment that prioritizes your health and well-being. They are committed to helping you navigate the journey “from procedure to confidence” with compassion, understanding, and expert medical guidance. Choose St. Pete Urology for your penile prosthesis needs, and experience the transformative power of this procedure.

References:

St. Pete Urology | Urologists in St Petersburg, Florida. (2020, September 14). St Pete Urology. https://stpeteurology.com/penile-implant-surgery-for-erectile-dysfunction/
St Pete Urology. (2019, March 5). Treating Erectile Dysfunction with Inflatable Penile Prosthesis. St Pete Urology. https://stpeteurology.com/erectile-dysfunction-inflatable-prosthesis/
Cavayero, C. T., & McIntosh, G. V. (2022, September 26). Penile Prosthesis Implantation. Nih.gov; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563292/
Pietrangelo, A. (2017, July 6). What to Expect from a Penile Implant. Healthline; Healthline Media. https://www.healthline.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/penile-implant-surgery
Galan, N. (2018, February 14). Penile implants: How they work and what to expect. Medicalnewstoday.com; Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/penile-implant

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What is sex like with a penile prosthesis

St Pete Urology — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 12:51:37 +0000

There is no such thing as “normal” when it comes to sex. What you like isn’t necessarily what another person likes. How important it is to you and how often you want it is also a personal preference, but what is common for everyone is the desire to have a pleasurable sexual encounter.

Men with erectile dysfunction who intend to have a penile implant inserted into their penis often want to know how it would impact their sexual pleasure.

Strong, reliable erection

A penile prosthesis enables you to have an erection that is strong enough for satisfactory sex. You will have an erection similar to a natural erection and will not have problems keeping it throughout sexual intercourse.

At St Pete Urology, we offer both inflatable and non-inflatable penile implants. An inflatable implant has two rods filled with fluid from a reservoir near the bladder. As the rods fill, the penis becomes erect. When there is no fluid in the rods, the penis is fully deflated and unnoticeable.

With the non-inflatable implant, a single rod is surgically implanted within the erection chamber of your penis. The rod keeps the penis in a semi-rigid state so that you merely need to lift it into position or adjust it by hand for sexual intercourse.

Regardless of whether the implant is inflatable or in a semi-rigid state, it will support your penis without making it larger or affecting the shape of its head. Expect your penis to be erect to about the same size as before you got the implant, and provide enough hardness for penetration and satisfying sex.

Unhindered sensitivity

A penile prosthesis does not affect the sensitivity of the penis, its glans, or its skin. You will not lose sensitivity and will generally respond to sexual stimulation. You will also have no limitations such as axial effort, traction, or your partner tightening the penis during sexual intercourse.

You can still enjoy different positions and enjoy normal orgasm and ejaculation—deriving maximum pleasure from your sexual encounters. The penis stays rigid even after orgasm, and it is up to you to choose to release the valve to remove the fluid from the rods and end the erection. You should also make sure to have good lubrication during intercourse.

Once you have a penile prosthesis, it may destroy your natural erection reflex. You should have the implant only when recommended by your urologist.

Hidden and unnoticeable

Due to the small incision made for the procedure, the healed scar after penile implant surgery is subtle and hidden to casual observers. The implant will be fully concealed and remain private. You can freely enjoy sex without worrying about your partner knowing you have an implant.

No one will be able to tell that you have a penile prosthesis until they see the small scar at the bottom of your penis. Even in the shower or locker room, it will remain undetectable.

Do you have erectile dysfunction? Would you like to restore your sexual function? At St Pete Urology, we understand that erectile dysfunction can severely impact your relationships and your quality of life. We offer various solutions that can help you with this predicament.

We typically recommend a penile prosthesis for patients who have not found the other ED treatments effective. After the implant surgery, patients can expect to enjoy healthy sex lives, enhanced self-esteem, and more satisfying relationships.

Schedule a consultation with one of our skilled and experienced surgeons at St Pete Urology to find out if a penile implant could be an excellent option for you

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Treating Erectile Dysfunction with Inflatable Penile Prosthesis

St Pete Urology — Tue, 05 Mar 2019 14:14:56 +0000

Prescription medications are typically the first treatment offered for men with erectile dysfunction. But for those who don’t respond well or are unable to be treated with these pills, a penile implant is a useful alternative. The penile implant (also called penile prosthesis) is a medical device that is placed surgically into the penis to generate a natural-feeling and natural-looking erection.

Simple, outpatient procedure

The operation to place a penile prosthesis is a quick and simple procedure that takes about 1 hour to complete. The device is inserted into the penis and custom-fitted to help with erection. After it is placed, a man can go home the same day and is ready to enjoy sex after a 4-6 week recovery period.

What is a penile prosthesis?

An inflatable penile implant is a self-contained, fluid-filled, supple and durable system designed to mimic both the look and performance of the penis during a natural erection. It has three components: a reservoir that is placed in the abdomen, two cylinders inserted in the penis and a pump located in the scrotum. The two cylinders situated in the penis are connected to the saline reservoir using a tubing. Because of the three components, the penile prosthesis is known as the three-piece inflatable penile implant.

How does the penile implant work?

To inflate the penile prosthesis, a man presses the pump to transfer the saline from the reservoir into the cylinders located in the penis. The cylinders are then inflated and the penis becomes erect. When the deflation valve found at the base of the pump is pressed, the fluid moves back to the reservoir, deflating the penis and making it flaccid. So the penile implant is capable of producing erections that are satisfactory for sexual intercourse.

Why should men with ED consider penile implants?

Once placed surgically by a urologist, an inflatable penile prosthesis helps a man to regain control of his body. Unlike other ED treatment options which require a slightly longer waiting period before use, the implant can be used at any time. Penile implants are an ideal option for men whose ED has not been resolved by other treatment options. It is a cost-effective option that achieves 98 percent satisfaction rate with patients and is not noticeable in a flaccid penis. In fact, even your sex partners will not know that you have the implant unless you inform them.

If you are looking for something to make you a confident, self-assured man again, a penile prosthesis may be just what you need. It effectively mimics the look and performance of a natural penis and will enable you to begin enjoying sex as soon as you are recovered from the surgery. Unlike remembering to take your medication every time you want to have sex, a penile prosthesis offers a more permanent and natural solution. For more information on treatment of erectile dysfunction, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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How does a penile implant pump work?

St Pete Urology — Wed, 20 Jun 2018 13:07:13 +0000

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem, affecting up to 52 percent of all men at some point in their lives. Statistically, ED is found in 20 percent of men over the age of 20, 40 percent of men over 40 and 78 percent of men over 75. As a general marker of cardiovascular function, erectile dysfunction tends to occur more frequently in men with obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, current smoking history, diabetes, heart disease or who are taking medications that impede cardiovascular function. In most men with ED, the problem can be successfully treated with prescription medications (pills) or a penis pump (a vacuum constriction device). However, in cases where pills and penile pumps prove ineffective, a penile implant surgery may be recommended as a last resort.

What is a penile implant?

A penile implant (also called penile prosthesis) is a medical or prosthetic device that is surgically placed and customized inside the penis and scrotum to help a man to achieve a natural-feeling and natural-looking erection, thereby gaining sexual function. It is an ideal treatment of erectile dysfunction in men who are not candidates for other ED treatments, have not been able to achieve an erection after other treatments, or have specific medical conditions such as peyronie’s disease ( a condition characterized by scarring inside the penis resulting in curved painful erections). Nevertheless, doctors usually prefer to start with the simpler, less invasive treatments for ED before opting for penile implant surgery.

Types of penile implants

There are three main types of penile implants: the three-piece inflatable pump, the two-piece inflatable pump and the semi-rigid, non-inflatable implant (malleable rods).

1. Three-piece inflatable pump

Also called the multi-component penile implant, the three-piece pump delivers the most natural, comfortable and rigid erection and offers the most suitable flaccidity when deflated. It is a larger and softer pump that is very easy to inflate by squeezing the pump and to deflate by pressing the release value above the pump. During the operation to implant the three-piece inflatable pump, two cylinders are placed in the penis, a fluid-filled container is implanted in the abdomen and an inflatable pump placed inside the scrotum. These three components are then connected using special tubing. To achieve an erection, the pump located in the scrotum is pressed to allow fluid to move from the abdominal container into the penile cylinders. Squeezing the release valve ensures that the fluid leaves the cylinders and moves back to the containers, making the penis flaccid.

2. Two-piece inflatable pump

For men with limited agility, such as those with trouble using their hands or with arthritis, the two-piece inflatable pump is ideal. Similar to the three-piece inflatable pump, the two-piece device works in the same way except that the fluid is kept in the pump located in the scrotum and not in a container in the abdomen (as with the three-piece pump). While the two-piece inflatable device is simpler and easier to place than the three-piece device, it is smaller, more difficult to inflate and offers a less-rigid erection than the three-piece pump.

3. Semi-rigid non-inflatable penile implant (malleable rods)

In some cases, the surgeon may insert two flexible rods into the penis to improve its rigidity. Once inserted, the rods will not change their stiffness or size and will keep the penis in a semi-rigid state. Typically, these rods are bent downward during implantation, but can be straightened upward or set in any other manner necessary for sexual intercourse. Non-inflatable implants can be inserted even by doctors with limited experience because they involve the simplest surgical procedure. They are completely concealed in the body and are a great option for men with limited dexterity, such as those with arthritis or problems using their hands. While malleable penile rods are very easy to use, their constant rigidity may make them uncomfortable.

Factors considered when selecting a penile implant

In order to achieve optimum results with penile implants, the needs and preferences of the patient must be carefully considered. So before doing an implant, the doctor will consider:

(a) Age of the patient and of his partner.
(b) Overall penile length and scrotum size.
(c) Patient’s body size and type.
(d) Ratio between the pendulous penis and crus (buried) penis.
(e) Size of glans penis.
(f) Any history of penile implant and previous pelvic or abdominal surgery.
(g) Whether the penis is circumcised or not.
(h) Presence of colostomy or previous kidney transplant.
(i) Overall health and well-being of the patient.
(j) Life expectancy of the patient.

Even though penile implants enable men to achieve an erection, they do not boost sexual sensation or desire. Most penile implants also will not make the penis larger or bigger than its natural size at the time of surgery. For some men, the penis may even be slightly smaller or shorter than it was before the procedure.

At St Pete Urology, our multi-dimensional and compassionate approach can be trusted to deliver excellent outcomes for all men with erectile dysfunction. For every man who comes to us, we identify the risk factors, assess the degree of dysfunction and recommend a safe and effective treatment. Apart from lifestyle modifications, medications and vacuum constriction devices, we also conduct safe penile implant surgery whenever necessary. We are committed to improving the sexual function and quality of life for all our patients. So do not suffer silently when we can provide effective solutions to your problem. For more information on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of ED, visit the”St Pete Urology” site.

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3 Main Causes of Erectile Dysfunction and Treatment Options

St Pete Urology — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 14:29:42 +0000

Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man is incapable of having an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. While occasional inability to have an erection is considered normal, frequent or prolonged difficulty to get or keep an erection, along with reduced sexual desire, is classified as erectile dysfunction. The condition often leads to an unsatisfactory sex life and may result in other problems such as low self-esteem, embarrassment, anxiety, depression and relationship problems.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is caused by physiological (physical) factors, psychological (mental) factors, or a combination of both. Generally, psychological problems are more likely to cause ED in younger men while physical problems are often the cause in older men.

The major psychological causes of ED are:

1. Depression

2. Stress at work or home

3. Worries about sexual performance with a new sexual partner or new situation

4. Unresolved relationship conflicts

5. Fatigue

6. Temporary issues such as loss of a job, studying for exams or financial concerns

7. Deep-rooted negative attitudes about sex, intimacy, or strict religious beliefs

8. History of sexual abuse

For a man to have a normal functioning erection, it helps to have self-confidence and arousing behavior or thoughts while being free of anxiety. If at least one of these conditions is chronically absent, a man’s inability to perform sexually can become a lasting issue.

The major physiological causes of ED are:

1. Diseases such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, chronic alcoholism, neurological disease, and vascular disease.

2. Drugs for treating hypertension (high blood pressure), depression, anxiety and psychosis, and regular consumption of alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes and other recreational drugs.

3. Injuries such as spinal cord injury and nervous system injury (like pinched nerves due to slipped vertebral discs).

4. Atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries due to a buildup of fat/cholesterol deposits inside arterial walls).

5. Hormonal imbalances such as low testosterone levels or due to diseases of the pituitary, adrenal or thyroid gland.

6. Cigarette smoking.

The main risk factors for erectile dysfunction are:

1. Age over 50

2. Lack of exercise

3. Diabetes (high blood sugar)

4. High cholesterol

5. High blood pressure

6. Smoking

7. Obesity

8. Cardiovascular disease

9. Drug and alcohol abuse

10. Cancer radiation therapy

11. Prostate surgery

12. Medicines such as antihistamines, antidepressants and blood pressure drugs.

Men spending a lot of time bicycling are also at risk of ED because bicycle seats can damage the nerves and blood vessels involved in erections.

Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

The treatment for erectile dysfunction depends on the cause. Often, the urologist will suggest a change of certain habits or recommend that you stop smoking, using drugs or stop alcohol use. The urologist may also recommend treatments for emotional problems, depression, performance anxiety or relationship conflicts.

The most common treatments for ED are:

1. Oral medications (erection pills) such as Cialis (tadalafil), Levitra (vardenafil), Stendra (avanafil) and Viagra (sildenafil).

2. Counseling and psychotherapy if your ED is related to psychological problems.

3. Injection of drugs in the penis: If oral medications fail, the urologist may recommend the injection of Caverject (alprostadil) in the penis. Suppositories of the same drug may also be placed in the urethra as an alternative to injection.

4. Vacuum erection devices: These devices create a low-pressure vacuum around erectile tissue, resulting in erection.

5. Testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended for a man with below-normal testosterone hormone.

6. Surgery: Surgery is usually recommended by a urologist when other treatments fail to improve the ED. The operation is performed to either fix blood vessel issues or for penile implants (like inserting penile prostheses, bendable implants or inflatable implants).

7. Penile arterial revascularization: A surgery for men under 45 years of age who have pelvic or penile injuries, helping to fix blocked or injured blood vessels in the penis.

8. Venous ligation surgery: Aimed at improving the firmness of the penis, this surgery corrects leaky penile vessels that cause softening of the penis during an erection. This technique is rarely used for correcting ED due to its low success rate of around 5%.

Are you having difficulties with sexual performance? Talking with an experienced urologist at St Pete Urology might help you solve the problem. For more information on dealing with erectile dysfunction, visit the website of St Pete Urology in St Petersburg, Florida.

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Are certain foods helpful in addressing erectile dysfunction (ED)?

St Pete Urology — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 08:18:48 +0000

It’s possible. Research published in January 2016 found that men who ate foods high in antioxidants called flavonoids had a lower risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) than those who didn’t eat a flavonoid-rich diet.

Flavonoids can be found in certain plant-based foods like citrus fruits, blueberries, strawberries, apples, pears, cherries, blackberries, radishes, and blackcurrant. Some teas, herbs, and wines also have flavonoids in them.

Past studies have shown that consuming flavonoids could reduce a person’s risk for diabetes and heart disease, both of which can lead to ED.

Eating a healthy diet overall, particularly a Mediterranean diet, can go a long way in preserving erectile function, however.

This type of diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil. Nuts and fish are good additions.

What does diet have to do with erections?

When a man is sexually-aroused, his penis fills with blood, giving it the firmness it needs for sex. Many men with ED have poor blood flow to the penis. Some medical conditions, like diabetes and heart disease, can damage blood vessels and nerves that are critical for this process.

Eating a healthy diet keeps the body in good working order. It can help men maintain a healthy weight, keep their blood sugar under control, and reduce the risk of blood vessel damage, which can impair blood flow.

Diet isn’t the only path to good erections, however. Other lifestyle habits, like regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing depression are important too.

A man’s doctor can help him decide which dietary changes to make. However, men who are having trouble with erections should be sure to mention it. Many factors can contribute to ED and it’s best to have a complete medical checkup. [Read Full Article…]

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The Penile Prosthesis Procedure

St Pete Urology — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 09:12:41 +0000

Penile Prosthesis devices are either malleable (bendable) or inflatable. The simplest consists of a pair of malleable rods surgically implanted within the erection chambers of the penis [Read Full Article…]

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Erectile Dysnfunction Treatment Options with Dr Reid Graves

St Pete Urology — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 05:58:51 +0000

Erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence) varies in severity; some men have a total inability to achieve an erection, others have an inconsistent ability to achieve an erection, and still others can sustain only brief erections.[Read Full Article…]

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Inflatable Penile Prosthesis – Reid Graves

St Pete Urology — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 08:53:55 +0000

Inflatable Penile Prosthesis is a device implanted into the penis to achieve an erection-like state that enables a man to have sexual intercourse [Read Full Article…]

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Penile Prosthesis Success Rate, Dr Reid Graves

St Pete Urology — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 09:46:11 +0000

Penile Implant requires a permanent surgical procedure that cannot be reversed. It is important that men talk to their doctor about the advantages and possible risks of having the procedure.[Read Full Article…]

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