Which Penile Implant Should You Get? Semi-Rigid Penile Implant vs. an Inflatable Penile Implant

Recent technological advancements have yielded several solutions for those who have erectile dysfunction. Two relatively recent solutions are semi-rigid penile implants and inflatable penile implants. It is important to explore the differences between the semi-rigid penile implant vs. the inflatable penile implant to find which penile implant you should get. 

What is a Semi-Rigid Penile Implant?

To best understand which will work best for you, it is essential to know what the procedure entails. A semi-rigid implant requires two rods that maintain the penis in a semi-rigid state. These rods are flexible and relatively easy to use, typically being bent in a downwards position and altered to an upward position during sexual intercourse. 

What is an Inflatable Penile Implant?

Inflatable penile implants come in two different forms, two-piece inflatable pumps and three-piece. 

What is a Two-Piece Inflatable Pump?

The two-piece inflatable pump requires the installation of two cylinders in the penis and an inflatable pump containing a liquid, which is connected by tubing. After the procedure and recovery time, the patient squeezes the pump in the scrotum, causing the fluid from the container to fill the cylinders, leading to an erection. To deactivate the pump, the patient squeezes the release valve, located in the scrotum, returning the fluid to the pump.

What is a Three-Piece Pump? 

The three-piece inflatable pump requires the same installations, with the addition of a container being inserted into the abdomen of the patient. Therefore, the pump inserted in the scrotum only contains an inflatable pump and release valve.

The three-piece pump works similarly to the two-piece, with the patient squeezing the pump to transfer the fluid from the container to the cylinders and squeezing the release valve to return the fluid to the container.

Though the three-piece pump does require an extra item, it usually yields more rigid results than the two-piece pump. 

What Are the Benefits of Semi-Rigid Penile Implants?

Semi-rigid penile implants, for one, are less invasive procedures than inflatable implants. They are easy to use, with patients simply having to bend the rods upwards or downwards. It is important to note that this implant will not alter the size or sexual drive of the patient and is only used to treat erectile dysfunction.  

What Are the Benefits of Inflatable Penile Implants?

Inflatable penile implants are the most commonly chosen option for those who have erectile dysfunction. They can be seen as a more desirable operation, as the patient can achieve an erection that feels natural and, unlike in semi-rigid implants, still be able to return to a flaccid state. Semi-rigid implants place the penis in a semi-rigid state, which can be uncomfortable for some individuals and, at times, difficult to hide. 

Which Procedure is Best for You? 

With a better understanding of each procedure, you may already have an idea of which you would prefer. Even if you are fully convinced of your preference, we recommend consulting with your specialist to ensure a successful and smooth operation. 

No matter which option you choose, the most important decision you will make is the specialist you select for the procedure. 

Choosing the Right Specialist

Dr. Edward Gheiler is a urologist with over two decades of experience in urological services, erectile dysfunction, the Penuma penis implant, and more. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.