Average Cost of a Penile Implant Procedure

The 2025 European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health do not provide specific cost data for penile implant procedures. However, the guidelines do offer comprehensive information about the clinical aspects of penile prosthesis implantation, which is recognized as a third-line treatment for erectile dysfunction¹. This surgical option is recommended for patients who either do not respond to other treatment modalities or prefer a definitive therapy solution². According to the EAU Guidelines, there are two main classes of penile implants available: inflatable devices (two- and three-piece) and semi-rigid devices (malleable, mechanical, and soft flexible)³. The three-piece inflatable devices are often preferred by patients because they provide more natural erections, while the two-piece inflatable prosthesis may be suitable for patients at high risk of complications with reservoir placements, such as those with previous abdominal surgery⁴. Semi-rigid prostheses offer advantages including a simpler implant technique and easier use for patients with limited manual dexterity, though they may have disadvantages such as unnatural persistent erection and reduced concealability⁵. The guidelines describe two main surgical approaches for penile prosthesis implantation: peno-scrotal and infrapubic⁶. A systematic review cited in the guidelines found no specific advantage between these approaches, recommending instead that surgeons be knowledgeable in both techniques to tailor the incision strategy for complex cases⁷. While cost considerations are not addressed, the guidelines emphasize that prosthesis implantation has one of the highest satisfaction rates among erectile dysfunction treatments, with 92-100% satisfaction in patients and 91-95% in partners⁸. Regarding penile size considerations, the EAU Guidelines note that the literature fails to show a direct relationship between penile prosthesis implantation and penile length in men with erectile dysfunction without Peyronie’s disease⁹. Studies cited in the guidelines indicate that most patients (72%) reported a subjective decrease in penile length after implantation, although no statistically significant difference was demonstrated in measured stretched penile length¹⁰. Other research has shown small decreases in erect penile length following prosthesis implantation, ranging from 0.74 to 0.83 cm at different post-operative time points¹¹. The two main complications of penile prosthesis implantation mentioned in the guidelines are mechanical failure and infection¹². While these factors may influence the overall cost of the procedure through potential additional treatments or revisions, the guidelines do not provide specific information about the financial aspects of these complications or the procedure itself. Patients considering a penile implant should consult with their urologist about the procedure’s suitability for their specific condition, the types of implants available, potential complications, and expected outcomes. While the EAU Guidelines provide valuable clinical information to guide treatment decisions, patients should also discuss cost considerations, including insurance coverage, with their healthcare providers and insurance companies.