Penile Curvature & Erectile Dysfunction 

A significant number of men with penile curvature (characterized by a curved penis, deformed, and indented penis) often find that their erectile function diminishes.

While some may have experienced Erectile Dysfunction (ED) before developing penile curvature, many notice a decrease in their ability to achieve full erections as the curvature worsens.

Both penile curvature and Erectile Dysfunction (ED) share a common issue – an impediment to the normal blood flow necessary for a male to achieve an erection. 

Fortunately, both conditions can be effectively treated with many different types of methods such as  Focused Shockwave Therapy and others.

For an erection to occur, the penis needs about 20 times more blood to rapidly flow into and stay within it compared to normal conditions. 

This influx of blood causes the penis to enlarge and harden, leading to a firm erection. 

However, penile curvature and ED both involve the formation of plaque in the blood vessels, which blocks this essential flow and hinders the achievement of a satisfactory erection.

In the case of penile curvature, this blockage is often more pronounced, typically resulting in the formation of a plaque lump on one side of the penis. 

This prevents the affected area from expanding properly, causing a noticeable bend during an erection.

A key advantage of breaking down the plaque associated with penile curvature is the rejuvenation of the blood vessels in the penis. 

Consequently, men receiving this treatment not only benefit from a straighter penis but also enjoy stronger and more enduring erections, thereby enhancing their overall sexual satisfaction.

What Causes ED and Penile Curvature

Men experience Erectile Dysfunction (ED) for various reasons, with aging being the most common risk factor. Studies indicate that about 50% of men over 40 years old experience some level of ED. 

Another significant risk factor is Diabetes, which damages blood vessels in the penile tissues due to high blood sugar. 

This damage leads to deposits on the blood vessel linings, restricting blood flow and making it difficult to achieve an erection. This affects men with type 1, and type 2 diabetes, and even those who are pre-diabetic.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is another major risk factor for ED, causing permanent blood vessel damage and reduced blood flow to the penis. 

Low levels of nitric oxide and testosterone in the body can also lead to ED. Other physical causes include high cholesterol, cardiovascular issues, and damage to the penis. 

Psychological factors, such as anxiety and depression, can impair the mental stability needed for strong erections, contributing to ED. 

Additionally, harmful habits like smoking, drug abuse, and alcohol abuse are major causes of ED.

penile curvature, unlike ED, is less common and its exact causes are often hard to pinpoint. However, various risk factors have been identified. 

For instance, penile injury, which can occur due to sporting or sexual activities, is a common risk factor. 

These injuries can lead to the development of fibrous plaques, causing curvature, hourglass shapes, or indentation in the penis. 

Men with connective tissue disorders, such as Dupuytren’s contracture, lederhosen, or Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes, are at higher risk.

In cases where a patient suffers from both partial ED and penile curvature, shockwave therapy is often recommended especially if it’s still in the early stages.

This therapy has two main effects: angiogenesis, which revitalizes blood vessels in the penis, allowing for stronger erections, and neurogenesis, which develops new nerve tissues, increasing penile sensitivity for more fulfilling sexual experiences.

While most patients see immediate improvements after the initial treatment, penile curvature can be a stubborn condition and may be resistant to non-invasive and non-surgical treatments in some cases.

| Read More: Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in Turkey

Preventing Peyronie’s Disease: Strategies and Tips

While Peyronie’s disease cannot be entirely prevented, especially if it’s caused by genetic or autoimmune factors, there are measures to reduce the risk of developing it, particularly in sexual contexts. 

As men age, erections might not be as firm, which can increase the risk of injury during sexual activity due to unexpected bending.

To minimize this risk, consider the following strategies:

• Use of Lubricants: Applying lubricants during sex can reduce friction and, consequently, the risk of penile injury.
• Careful Insertion: During sexual activity, especially when changing positions or if the penis slips out, it’s important for you or your partner to gently guide the penis during reinsertion to avoid bending.
• Position Awareness: In sexual positions where the partner is on top, there is an increased risk of bending the penis. Being mindful of this can help prevent injury.
• Steady Thrusting Motion: Maintain a straight and steady motion during sex. Avoid any movements that might cause your penis to bend or twist.

It’s important to note that these measures primarily address the risk of injury-induced Peyronie’s disease. 

If the disease is due to genetic or autoimmune factors, these prevention strategies may not be applicable. 

Even if you’re not sexually active, Peyronie’s disease can still develop, and in such cases, these prevention tips wouldn’t be relevant.

Reversing Penile Curvature

For over 250 years, penile curvature has been a known condition, yet it has not been considered critical. 

Since the pandemic, many men feel they have been deprioritized in receiving treatment and advice for this condition.

Those who manage to get specialist consultation are often advised to take vitamin E, use a penis pump, and wait for 18 months to two years, possibly leading up to penile implant surgery. 

This period can be challenging, often marked by depression, strained relationships, and a significant decline in self-esteem. 

While some men might still engage in sexual activity, for others, the severity or pain associated with penile curvature makes this impossible.

The traditional medical approach of observing the condition for 18 months before considering surgery is not always preferable. 

Our clinical experience suggests that addressing a smaller issue early on is more effective than dealing with a larger one later.

Furthermore, the majority of our patients prefer to avoid surgery if possible with non-surgical treatment methods such as PRP – ESWT – Stem cells.

At Istanbul Urology Clinic, we are at the forefront of non-invasive treatments for erectile dysfunction and penile curvature in Turkey. 

We specialize in addressing these conditions early with advanced, non-invasive medical treatments, positioning ourselves as pioneers in the field.

| Read More: Penis enlargement surgery in Turkey

Penile Curvature in Non-Surgical Treatments 

Shockwave Therapy for Penile Curvature

Shockwave therapy for penile curvature is an advanced medical procedure. It involves directing focused shockwaves (similar to those used in breaking kidney stones but without pain) at the plaque to weaken, fragment, and diminish it. 

The fragmented fibrosis is then remodeled, absorbed, and processed by the body. A beneficial side effect of this procedure is Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, which contributes to achieving harder erections.

We employ the latest techniques to precisely identify the plaque, determine its size, and inform the optimal treatment plan. 

A hand-held device is applied to the shaft of the penis, emitting a series of low-intensity shock waves. 

These impulses are not painful and the treatment typically lasts about 20 minutes. 

After treatment, patients can resume their normal activities. These sessions are conducted by either a practicing doctor or a medically trained shockwave specialist.

Shockwave treatment is side-effect-free, non-invasive, and involves brief clinic visits as prescribed by the specialist. 

For those who have been dealing with penile curvature for an extended period, noticeable improvements often manifest within two weeks of starting therapy.

While many patients see immediate enhancements after the initial treatment series, penile curvature can be a persistent condition, sometimes resistant to all non-invasive and non-surgical treatments.

The Priapus Shot (P-Shot)

Our clinic offers the Priapus Shot (P-Shot), a non-surgical and pain-free treatment ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for our patients. 

The procedure, which lasts approximately thirty minutes, is conducted in our clinic and is designed to complement other treatments we offer, enhancing overall effectiveness and long-term results.

The P-Shot involves taking a small blood sample from your body and isolating the essential components crucial for natural healing. 

These powerful elements are then painlessly injected back into the penile tissues. This direct injection stimulates regeneration and optimizes penile function.

Specifically designed to revitalize the penis, the P-Shot encourages the growth of new blood vessels and tissue. 

It is a well-established medical procedure aiming to rejuvenate the organ, resulting in increased sensitivity and improved overall functionality.

Combining P-Shot and ESWT:

• Combining these treatments could theoretically enhance the therapeutic effects, as one could address the issue of plaque and tissue damage (ESWT), while the other promotes tissue regeneration and healing (P-Shot).
• However, the efficacy of this combined approach would depend on individual cases and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Important Considerations:

• Effectiveness: The effectiveness of these treatments can vary, and not all patients may experience significant improvements.
• Safety: While generally considered safe, there are potential risks and side effects associated with any medical procedure.
• Medical Advice: It’s crucial to consult with us or your healthcare provider specializing in men’s health or urology to understand the best treatment options for your specific condition.

Stem Cell Therapy for Penile Curvature 

Stem cell therapy offers a promising path for treating various health issues in men, particularly in conditions like penile curvature (formerly known as Peyronie’s disease). 

This condition, often caused by factors that hinder blood flow to the penis, may benefit from the regenerative abilities of stem cells. 

These cells can repair damaged blood vessels and promote tissue regeneration in the penile area. 

By injecting stem cells into the affected region, there’s potential for improved blood vessel formation and enhanced erectile function, offering hope to those struggling with penile curvature.

Surgical Methods:

For patients who have experienced a prolonged duration of Peyronie’s disease, resulting in a worsening of their condition, we offer multiple surgical options tailored to address their specific needs.

Surgical Graft – Peyronie’s Disease

Surgical intervention is often the preferred course of action for men dealing with severe or intricate penile curvature, a procedure typically reserved for the stable, chronic phase of Peyronie’s disease, generally after a waiting period of a few months.

In this procedure, a substantial segment of the fibrotic plaque is surgically removed. The resultant void is then filled with a graft, crafted either from animal tissue or synthetic alternatives. 

This meticulous operation involves careful dissection of the nerves situated at the penis’s apex or surrounding the urethra. These nerves are then delicately reconnected after the main surgical process.

This grafting technique is usually recommended in cases where the penile curvature is pronounced, and the natural length of the penis doesn’t allow for simpler corrective measures like penile plication. 

It’s important for patients to understand the potential complications of this surgery, which include the risk of post-operative erectile dysfunction and a possible diminishment in penile sensitivity. 

In the recovery phase, patients are typically guided to undertake specific penile stretching exercises and to adhere strictly to a regimen of prescribed medications. 

These post-operative measures are crucial for aiding in recovery and optimizing the surgery’s effectiveness.

Penile Curvature Correction through Penile Plication:

The method of penile plication surgery stands as the last discussed treatment option for Peyronie’s disease in this article. 

It’s generally advised for individuals who do not suffer from erectile dysfunction and exhibit a moderate penile curvature, typically not exceeding 60 degrees.

This surgical approach is viable only in the stable chronic stage of Peyronie’s disease, usually about 18 months following the initial manifestation of the condition. 

The technique involves shortening the longer side of the penis, evident during an erection, to align with the side affected by the fibrous plaque. 

For every 15 degrees of curvature correction, there is an approximate 1 cm decrease in the overall length of the penis. As a result, the surgery might lead to a reduction in penile length, potentially up to 5 cm.

In addition to coming to terms with a decrease in length, some patients report discomfort associated with the sutures and knots that remain in the penis post-operation. 

This procedure, while effective in correcting curvature, requires patients to consider these potential changes and discomforts as part of their decision-making process.

Penile Implants in Treating Peyronie’s Disease

Penile implants are a treatment strategy for advanced Peyronie’s disease, typically when the condition results in a significantly curved penis and causes painful erections. 

This method is often chosen for patients who suffer from both Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction.

During this procedure, an implant is surgically placed inside the penis. It operates with a mechanical pump that the user activates to produce an erection. 

It’s critical to understand that with the implant, achieving natural, spontaneous erections as before is not possible.

Moreover, the kind of prosthesis chosen can affect the sensitivity of the penis as some implants are able to mimic the erection feeling in every aspect better than other implants and may lead to a decrease in penile length.

you can always contact us to have a better understanding about the penile implants as an option for penile curvature and ED.

This treatment option requires careful consideration of these changes and how they might impact the patient’s life.

| Read More: Penile implant surgery in Turkey

Takeaway

Experiencing symptoms related to your penis, particularly those affecting its size and shape, can be both distressing and embarrassing. 

It’s natural to hope that these symptoms might resolve independently, perhaps considering remedies like applying ice to the area. 

However, it’s crucial to recognize that these symptoms are signals from your body indicating a potential health issue.

Ignoring these symptoms or hoping they’ll disappear on their own may delay the diagnosis and treatment of conditions like Peyronie’s disease. 

It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider when you notice such changes. A medical professional can accurately diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate treatment. 

Remember, addressing these concerns early can lead to more effective management and a better outcome.