Generally about the treatment
Some men are born with an arch on their penis, which typically shows in puberty. In most cases an arched penis will, however, be caused by Peyronie's disease - a condition where the penis has a curve on the shaft.
The disease can strike men of any age, but is not usually seen with men under the age of 40. The condition occurs, when scar tissue is formed underneath the skin of the penis, which gives it the arch, and makes it look bent. The scar tissue will then develop further over the next few years, after which the development stops.
Peyronie's disease is a harmless condition, but can lead to various problems for those, who suffer from it. Due to the deform shape, pains can occur during intercourse or from an erection. An operation will be able to help straighten the penis.
Suitability
Healthy and fit men over 18, who suffer from Peyronie's disease, or who are born with a similar deformity, who experience pains or complications during sexual activity.
The surgery can only be performed on people whose condition has remained stable throughout the last year, and who have not experienced any changes to the condition during the last 3 months.
The procedure
The method of surgery may vary depending on the patient's individual circumstances.
During a typical procedure for circumcision, the surgeon will begin by injecting a saline fluid into the penis, in order to create an artificial erection, which will then make the arch visible. The surgeon will then make an incision, after which a thread will be inserted to straighten out the penis. The incision is closed using dissolvable sutures.
In some cases, it may also be necessary to perform circumcision.
It is important to be aware, that the thread used to straighten the penis will remain permanent, and in most cases you will be able to feel the stitches through the skin. These will feel like knots.
Anaesthesia
The surgery is carried out under general anaesthesia.
Side-effects
In some cases the penis may be shortened a little. Never more than 1 centimeter (½ inch) though.
Risk of complications
There is a risk of impotence.
There is a risk of side effects from the anaesthetic used, along with bleeding, poor wound healing, a poor cosmetic result, and blood accumulation.
No form of surgery is risk free, although severe complications are very rare.
Healing and recovery
After the surgery, the surgeon will apply a bandage, which may then be removed again after 3 days. Most people will be able to leave the hospital on the same day, and general activities can be resumed. Due to the stitching, it is important to remain sexually abstinent throughout the next month or so.
You will be able to shower on the day after surgery, but baths, as well as swimming, should be avoided for the following 2 weeks.
Duration of the result
The operation is relatively permanent, but there is a risk of recurrence, if the condition is due to Peyronie's disease. It is also possible, that the penis does't become completely straight after the operation.