Penile implants or prosthetics are devices which have been shown to be an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. Penile implants and prosthetics are an alternative for those who have tried medication and not found the desired results. They represent a safe alternative as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Penile implants certainly have a stigma attached from past eras. Early models were much less effective, prone to breakage and unreliable. They were also considered intrusive and even 'unmasculine'. Decades of advancement in research and application have delivered some impressive results, and certainly shown that it is a viable treatment for erectile dysfunction, and has definitely helped men better in coping with erectile dysfunction.

In general there are 2 types of Penile Implants: malleable and inflatable.

Certain malleable penile implants are a pair of semi-rigid rods that are implanted into the penis. Others have an outer shell that is concentric around an inner one made of plastic or metal. Certain types have fixed shapes, some are adjustable.

The downside of a malleable penile implant is that it is always 'on' or erect. There is no flexibility and in order to allow non-sexual function, they are typically in between a full erection and a flaccid penis. They are however reasonably easy to insert surgically.

Inflatables are the more popular option in terms of penile implants, and also as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Inflatable's come in either two or three sections but both perform the same function by basically the same means. A narrow tube is implanted into the penis, which is then attached to a pump and reservoir containing fluid. The pump and release mechanism are then normally implanted into the scrotum so the whole assembly is completely invisible.

When the user wants to achieve an erection he or his partner squeezes the pump, and the device will inflate in turn creating an erection. There is a release valve which makes the penis flaccid- this can also be achieved by bending the shaft to release the fluid.

Inflatable penile implants are coated with an antibiotic compound, making infection rare - between 2-3% according to recent data from Cornell University's Department of Urology. This further supports it as an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Satisfaction rates are high among penile implants- only approximately 15% of user's require some form of follow up. Also approximately 85% of men who received one still have their original implant ten years after surgery.

However, as with any treatment for erectile dysfunction, the possibility of side-effects is present. Apart from infection, sensitivity and pain are possible, specifically after the procedure and during the first uses. Scar tissue may form- specifically if the device is removed and re-inserted. It is always advisable to seek the advice of your physician before pursuing penile implants as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.