(Phalloplasty)

Penis lengthening surgery - One of the most controversial new procedures performed in Europe is cosmetic phalloplasty. Men are not created equal in this department. Although the penis may function perfectly well, many men desire enhancing their masculinity by penis lengthening surgery, penis girth augmentation or both.

The cosmetic procedure was pioneered by Dr. Long, Professor of Plastic Surgery, Wuhan, China. In 1984, a young man who had his penis bitten off by a dog during infancy, asked Dr. Long if he could lengthen his penis so that he might marry. A reconstructive procedure using plastic surgical techniques was performed successfully. Dr. Long was then able to offer his knowledge and skill to cosmetic patients who, although normal, were unhappy with their size.  Many normal adult men would prefer to have a longer penis. The penis is the ultimate symbol of virility. To improve self-esteem, some men desire a larger penis, a desire that is similar, in many respects, to that of women who want breast augmentation.

THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR PENIS LENGTHENING

At the first consultation, patients were told whether they were acceptable candidates for surgery. A candidate had to be healthy (pass the physical), close to his ideal weight and have realistic expectations about the results of surgery. Age, race and sexual orientation were not limiting factors. None was promised any specific length increase. All patients except five underwent surgery in a private ambulatory surgical facility. Those admitted to hospital included a diabetic patient, a hypertensive patient, a geriatric patient.

TYPES OF ANESTHESIA

Phalloplasty can be performed under general anesthesia, so you'll sleep through the operation, or under intravenous sedation and local anesthesia.

THE SURGERY

Incisions are made at the root of the penis (junction of the penis and pubic area). The penis is then released from its attachments (suspensory ligaments) to the pubic symphysis. The space is closed with local tissue and no implant is used. Skin from the penis and/or the pubic area is used to cover the new extended penis. Post-op traction is used to reduce the chance of retraction and provide more natural shaft skin.

Function (urination and copulation) should not be affected. But, the angle of the erection will change slightly from more vertical to more horizontal.

AFTER YOUR SURGERY

For the first few days, your penis and scrotum are usually swollen and bruised for two to three weeks. Pain is not severe. Soreness in the groin and pubic regions which lasts for about ten days is controlled with light oral analgesics. The scar in the pubic hair area may take many months to fade and soften but it is hidden and not usually a concern. Your doctor will give you instructions for showering and changing your dressings. And though you may not be able to stand straight at first, you should start walking as soon as possible. Bathing and gradual ambulation usually commenced on the third postoperative day.

Surface stitches will be removed in 10 to 14 days.

Penile traction was started at approximately two weeks post operation or when the incisions were well united and there was no shaft edema. Traction was gradually increased and continued until the cutaneous scars were mature (four to six months post operation). Rigorous physical and sexual activities were discouraged in the first month post operation.

HOW MUCH CAN THE PENIS BE LENGTHENED?

The amount varies with each individual. At present, there is no test to determine the amount pre-operatively. From 1/2 to 2 inches is a reasonable estimate. Also, the use of weights (or other means of traction) attached to the penis after surgery not only maintains the new length, but also may add further length. The increase in length varies depending on a patient's anatomy.

ALL SURGERY CARRIES SOME UNCERTAINTY AND RISK

Thousands of Phalloplastyes are performed successfully each year. When done by a qualified plastic surgeon who is trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

Post-operative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but can occur. Infection can be treated with drainage and antibiotics, but will prolong your hospital stay. You can minimize the risk of blood clots by moving around as soon after the surgery as possible.

Poor healing, which results in conspicuous scars, may necessitate a second operation. Smokers should be advised to stop, as smoking may increase the risk of complications and delay healing. Function (urination and copulation) should not be affected. But, the angle of the erection will change slightly from more vertical to more horizontal.