Penile Implants

For many men struggling with erectile dysfunction, medications, and behavioral changes aren’t enough to restore normal sexual function. In fact, 30-40 percent of ED patients do not respond to oral medications. If you’re among the thousands of men in this group, the answer may be an inflatable penile prosthesis.

Urology San Antonio has one physician who is an expert in penile implants. Dr. Matthias Hofer specializes in Urologic Reconstruction, Trauma, and Prosthetics

The inflatable penile prosthesis works by implanting two cylinders in the penis, with a pump the size of a marble in the scrotum and a saline-filled reservoir is placed in the abdomen.  All of this is done through a one-inch incision in the scrotum.

To operate the prosthesis, the user squeezes the pump to inflate the cylinders with fluid which mimics the effect of blood engorging the penis during a natural erection.  Following intercourse, a release mechanism in the pump allows the saline to flow back into the reservoir.

When deflated, the device is impossible to detect in the bedroom or locker room.

Will insurance cover a penile implant?

Many insurances will cover the cost of a penile implant if it is medically necessary (i.e. other medications and therapies have not been successful).  Insurance companies that have covered penile implants in the past include:

• Medicare
• WellCare
• Aetna
• Tricare Prime
• Tricare Standard
• ViaCare
• Community First
• United Healthcare
• Secure Horizons
• Allevion
• Blue Cross Blue Shield

Urology San Antonio cannot guarantee any insurance company will cover the procedure unless given written pre-authorization.  We can assist you by providing your insurance company documentation as it relates to the medical necessity of the procedure.