Specializations
Penile Implants
, Urologist and Andrologist in Brussels
"From diagnosis to treatment, specialized men's health care tailored to your situation."
Dr. Sam Ward
A penile implant is a well-established treatment used worldwide when other treatments have not been effective. The goal is to restore the ability to have sexual intercourse through a mechanical erection. Whether this procedure is appropriate for you will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Key Points
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A well-established treatment with more than 50 years of experience, used worldwide in specialized urology centers.
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Considered when medication, injections, or vacuum pumps are no longer effective.
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Fully implanted in the body — not visible from the outside.
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Erections on demand via a discreet, built-in control system.
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Not just a first-line treatment, but a well-considered and sustainable choice for the right patient.
Expertise and Guidance
As a urologist specializing in urological implants, I will guide you every step of the way. I completed my training in prosthetic surgery under Prof. Dr. Koen Van Renterghem (Jessa Hospital, Hasselt), with whom I also co-author scientific publications. Every patient is unique; treatment is tailored to each individual’s situation, and expectations, limitations, and potential complications are discussed in advance.
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When is a penile implant recommended?
A penile implant is not a first-line treatment. It is considered when other therapies have not produced satisfactory results—for example, when PDE5 inhibitors are ineffective or cannot be tolerated, and injections or vacuum pumps do not provide a solution.It is often recommended for erectile dysfunction caused by an underlying medical condition: diabetes, cardiovascular disease, nerve damage or trauma, or permanent loss of erectile function following a radical prostatectomy. It remains a well-considered decision. The expected benefits and potential complications are discussed individually in advance.
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Hydraulic (inflatable) prosthesis
This is the most common type and most closely mimics the natural mechanism of an erection. The system consists of two cylinders in the penis, a pump in the scrotum, and a fluid reservoir beneath the abdominal wall.Pressing the pump causes sterile fluid to flow into the cylinders, resulting in a firm erection. After sexual activity, a valve allows the fluid to flow back out, causing the penis to soften again. In terms of feel and appearance, this type most closely resembles a natural erection: when flaccid, the penis is not conspicuous. Operating the pump requires some hand-eye coordination. Hydraulic systems come in two- or three-piece versions, but always feature an internal pump and reservoir for flexibility and control.
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Flexible (semi-rigid) prosthesis
A simpler system consisting of two flexible rods that are permanently implanted in the penis. The penis remains in a semi-erect state at all times; for sex, you manually bend it upward and then back down afterward for comfort.The advantage is its simplicity: no pump or reservoir, and therefore a lower risk of mechanical problems. This type is a good option for men with limited dexterity or those who prefer a less complex implant. Technically, it feels slightly less natural than the hydraulic version, but it remains reliable and user-friendly.
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Important to Know
Both types are implanted entirely within the body and are not visible from the outside. After implantation, spontaneous erections are no longer possible—the natural erectile tissues are replaced by the prosthetic material—but the control system allows for erections on demand.The choice between the two types depends on medical factors, hand function, expectations, and personal preference, and is always discussed with the urologist.
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Risks and Limitations
A penile prosthesis is a surgical procedure in which a foreign material is implanted. As with any procedure, there are risks and limitations that are discussed in advance.
- Irreversibility. During placement, the natural erectile tissues are affected. After implantation, spontaneous erections are no longer possible, even if the prosthesis were to be removed later. This is the most important consideration before the procedure.
- Infection. An infection of the implant is the most serious complication. It occurs in a small percentage of cases following a first implantation and usually requires removal of the prosthesis. Diabetes, previous prosthetic surgery, and a weakened immune system increase this risk.
- Mechanical failure. A prosthesis is a mechanical system and may malfunction over the years. In that case, replacement surgery is necessary. Modern hydraulic systems have a long service life, but no implant lasts indefinitely.
- Penile length. The prosthesis restores rigidity but does not lengthen the penis. Some men perceive their penis as shorter after the procedure than it was before. Realistic expectations regarding this are discussed in advance.
- Sensation and orgasm. Sensitivity, orgasm, and ejaculation are generally not affected by the procedure, since the nerves are not cut. However, the experience may vary from person to person.
- General surgical risks. As with any procedure: bleeding, wound healing problems, and risks associated with anesthesia. Which risks are most relevant in your situation depends on your medical history. This will be discussed individually during the consultation, along with the expected benefits and alternatives.