Why it's done

For most men, erectile dysfunction can be successfully treated with medications or use of a penis pump (vacuum constriction device). You might consider penile implants if you aren't a candidate for other treatments or you can't get an erection sufficient for sexual activity by using other methods.

Penile implants can also be used to treat severe cases of a condition that causes scarring inside the penis, leading to curved, painful erections (Peyronie's disease).

Penile implants aren't for everyone. Your doctor might caution against penile implants if you have:

• ED that's situational, the result of a relationship conflict or potentially reversible
• An infection, such as a pulmonary infection or urinary tract infection
• Diabetes that isn't well-controlled

Keep in mind that while penile implants allow men to get an erection, they don't increase sexual desire or sensation. Most penile implants also won't make your penis any larger than it naturally is at the time of surgery. In fact, your erect penis might be slightly shorter than it used to be.