Background

Peyronie's Disease is a form of erectile dysfunction that causes a bend in the penis that can make erections quite painful. The problem is caused by scar tissue, called a plaque, that forms inside the penis. It can make the penis bend upward or to the side. 

The cause of Peyronie's Disease is unknown but many researchers believe that the plaque forms after trauma that causes bleeding inside of the penis. However, many are unaware of injury or trauma. There is a genetic component as it is less frequent in Asian men. Smoking greatly increases the risk. Men with Peyronie's have increased incidence of antibodies to collagenase. Therefore, they are more prone to scar formation. 

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Treatment usually entails injecting medication into the penis or even surgery. Both of these options are rather expensive and may worsen scar tissue formation. Insurance plans do not cover the cost of these procedures.  

Our approach, however, is multimodal. We utilize a protocol with low risk and as natural as possible in that we are using the body's own ability to heal itself via the Priapus Shot® (P-Shot®) . The P-Shot® is ideal in this application as its effects are anti-scarring. In addition, the P-Shot® promotes increased circulation to the penile tissue. Protocol calls for up to a series of 3 treatments, one shot every 6-8 weeks. 

We also offer Ultrasound Shockwave Therapy or Extracorporal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT). We use sound waves to target firm plaques to soften them over time. Sound waves target firm/hard structures and pulverize them into smaller pieces which can be absorbed and eliminated from the body. Soft tissue is left unharmed as these pliable structures move along with the sound waves. Several treatments are required, typically 6-24 and possibly more depending on the severity of curvature. It is recommended to combine EPAT with the P-Shot for better outcomes. Often the combination of therapies reduces the required treatments with EPAT. 

If the aesthetic appearance is more of a concern, P-Girth penile augmentation with fillers may be able to address the problem. Dr. Leonardo is able to place more filler in deficient areas to create a more balanced appearance. Sometime the appearance of the curve may be eliminated or at least softened. 

We recommend concomitant use of a pump or traction device. We also recommend daily supplements of Vitamin E 1200 IU, Vitamin C 3000mg, CoQ10 300mg, and B-Complex. In addition, we would like to increase circulation and recommend walking at least 21 miles per week. Cialis 2.5-5mg daily is also prescribed to improve erectile function in combination with the effects of the P-Shot®. We strongly emphasize the importance of smoking cessation.

Is The Procedure Painful?

There may be mild discomfort. Patients do not describe the procedure as painful. A topical numbing cream is used for your comfort. A nerve block may also be performed for deeper anesthesia particularly for our injectable treatments. Some may still feel pressure and a small pinch. 

How Long Do The Results Last?

If your Peyronie's Disease (PD) was caused by an acute event or trauma, the results are possibly permanent assuming you do not sustain the same injury. Some patients report an injury that occurs when their partner rides their penis, and the penis is bent during intercourse. As long as this does not happen again, a recurrence is not to be expected. 

If your PD is idiopathic i.e. just developed without cause, your PD may return at some point as you may have a predisposition to developing scar tissue. Recurrence is highly variable and unpredictable. 

If you opted for P-Girth Penile Augmentation with fillers, some patients report aesthetic benefit anywhere between 12-18 months before a top up is required.