Short answer
A penile prosthesis is a medical implant placed inside the penis that allows a man to have an erection when other erectile dysfunction treatments have not worked. Surgery usually takes 1-2 hours under general or spinal anaesthesia, with 1-2 nights in hospital. Most men stay in Istanbul for 7-10 days and can use the implant after about 4-6 weeks.
What is a penile prosthesis?
A penile prosthesis is a device placed entirely inside the body. Nothing is visible from outside. There are two main types, and your urologist explains which suits you.
- Inflatable implant: cylinders in the penis, a small pump in the scrotum and a reservoir in the lower abdomen; the pump is pressed to create an erection and released afterwards
- Malleable (semi-rigid) implant: flexible rods that are positioned by hand; simpler, with fewer parts
Who is it for?
A prosthesis is usually considered when medication, injections or other treatments have not worked or are unsuitable. Common causes include diabetes, blood vessel disease, prostate cancer surgery and Peyronie's disease. A doctor assesses suitability in person, including your general health and blood sugar control.
How the procedure is done
Under general or spinal anaesthesia, the surgeon makes a small incision, usually at the base of the penis or in the upper scrotum, and places the implant. Strict infection control is followed throughout. You usually stay 1-2 nights in hospital.
Your hotel, VIP transfers and a medical interpreter are arranged before you land, and a personal coordinator stays with you discreetly throughout.
Recovery and results
Swelling and soreness are expected for 2-3 weeks. Most men return to desk work in 1-2 weeks. The team shows you how to use the device at a check-up, and most men can use it for intercourse after 4-6 weeks.
Sensation and the ability to ejaculate and reach orgasm are usually unchanged. Satisfaction among men and their partners is generally high, and implants often last many years. Metropolmed's own medical team performs the treatment in Istanbul, and 12 months of follow-up are included.
Your private consultation
Your consultation is private and thorough, as this is a permanent decision. Before you travel, your coordinator asks for details of earlier erectile dysfunction treatments, your medical history and recent blood tests, including blood sugar control if you have diabetes. Good control lowers the risk of infection. You can discuss the decision with a partner beforehand, and the team is happy to answer their questions too. Bring loose clothing for the journey home.
Consultations take place one to one in a private room, with a medical interpreter if you need one, and you can ask for a male or female interpreter and coordinator. Your records, photographs and test results are kept strictly confidential and shared only with the clinicians treating you. Metropolmed holds the Turkish Ministry of Health international patient authorisation (USHAŞ AK-0164), and its own TÜRSAB-licensed travel division (licence 13032) books your hotel.
Risks and safety
The most serious risk is infection, which may mean the implant has to be removed. Other risks include mechanical failure over time requiring replacement, erosion, scarring, and the erect penis feeling slightly shorter than natural erections did. Placing an implant permanently alters the erectile tissue, so natural erections are unlikely afterwards.
Your urologist examines you in person, explains these risks clearly and makes sure you have considered alternatives before you consent.
Recovery timeline
- Day 1Surgery and hospital stay
- Day 2-3Discharge to the hotel
- Week 1-2Check-up and return home; desk work resumes
- Week 4-6Device activation and first use
- Month 12Final follow-up review
Frequently asked questions
Is the implant visible?
No. All parts are inside the body, and the pump in the scrotum is not noticeable to others.
Will sensation or orgasm change?
Usually not. The implant does not affect the nerves responsible for sensation, ejaculation or orgasm.
Which is better, inflatable or malleable?
Each suits different men. Inflatable implants feel more natural, while malleable implants are simpler with fewer parts, and your urologist helps you choose.
How long does an implant last?
Many implants function for well over a decade, though mechanical parts can eventually need replacement.
Can I go through airport security with it?
Yes. Implants do not usually cause problems, and the team can provide a medical letter if you wish.
