Peyronie’s Disease

Scarring within structures of the penis that causes curvature, known as Peyronie’s disease, may result from an acute or chronic injury to the penis, specifically during sexual activity, although little is known about why it happens. Mild issues don’t require treatment, but some men may experience debilitating symptoms that interfere with sexual function and cause relationship stress.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Although penile curvature remains the primary symptom associated with Peyronie’s disease, other signs include:

• Pain with erection – Related to inflammation caused by scarring; acute phase typically lasts for first 6-12 months; anti-inflammatory medications can help resolve pain before attempting corrective treatments
• Palpable scar tissue within the penis
• Erectile dysfunction (ED) – Often associated with Peyronie’s although not the cause of poor erections; must address both issues because fixing one may not fix the other
• Hourglass deformity or penile shortening

Treatments for Peyronie’s Disease

Mild curvature that does not inhibit sexual activity and pain that has resolved needs no treatment. Otherwise, you and your doctor can choose from multiple treatment options for Peyronie’s disease, including:

• Collagenase injections (Xiaflex) – Only FDA-approved treatment that involves injecting medication directly into scar; followed by reshaping or modeling of penis; process repeats for several cycles over a few months for best results
• Surgical procedures
  • Penile plication – Places sutures in or removes wedge of tissue from side opposite curvature to straighten penis; most common surgical treatment with years of data showing good results
  • Penile grafting – Replaces scarred area with graft; good option for very severe curvature or severe shortening; a more-invasive choice associated with risk of worsening ED
  • Penile prosthesis – Single operation that can fix both curvature and ED; typically reserved for Peyronie’s situations also involving unsuccessful ED treatment