How many years does a penile implant last?

Penile implants are designed to provide a long-term solution for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) who have not responded to conservative therapies. The two main types of penile implants are inflatable (usually 3-piece systems) and semi-rigid (malleable) rods [1]. Inflatable models are more commonly used due to their more natural appearance and function, although no prospective randomized controlled trials have compared satisfaction rates between the different types of implants [1].

According to the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines, the durability of penile prostheses has been well-documented in a meta-analysis showing implant survival rates of 93.3% at 1 year, 91.0% at 3 years, 87.2% at 5 years, 76.8% at 10 years, 63.7% at 15 years, and 52.9% at 20 years [2]. This indicates that while many implants function effectively for 10–15 years, their longevity can extend even longer in some cases, with approximately half still functioning at 20 years.

Implant longevity depends on several factors:

• Type of implant: Inflatable implants may be more susceptible to mechanical failure over time compared to semi-rigid types, though modern devices from major manufacturers have mechanical failure rates of less than 5% after 5 years of follow-up [3].
• Surgical technique: Skill and experience of the surgeon can influence outcomes and reduce the need for early revision [4].
• Patient factors: General health, presence of diabetes, prior surgeries, or infections may affect the implant’s lifespan [5].

When an implant no longer functions properly, revision surgery may be necessary. The EAU guidelines note that careful surgical techniques with appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis have reduced infection rates to 2–3% with primary implantation in low-risk patients and high-volume centers [6]. The infection rate may be further reduced to 1–2% by using antibiotic-impregnated or hydrophilic-coated prostheses [7].

If an implant fails or complications arise, a urologist may be able to replace the defective component or revise the entire system. Patients are advised to seek prompt evaluation if functionality declines.

Overall, penile implants offer a high satisfaction rate (92–100% in patients and 91–95% in partners) [8], with many men and their partners reporting significantly improved sexual function and quality of life after appropriate counseling.