Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the procedure take?
Penis lengthening typically takes 1 hour and penis widening 2 hours. The surgery is performed in an outpatient surgery center.
2. What type of anesthesia is used?
It is recommended that general anesthesia is used which is performed by board-certified anesthesiologists. Intravenous sedation can be used in patients who do not desire general anesthesia.
3. Is there a lot of pain after the procedure?
Most patients report mild-moderate pain for a few days following the procedure. This is well-controlled with Vicodin or Tylenol #3.
4. How long should I remain in the Los Angeles area?
It is recommended that patients arrive 1 day prior to surgery and stay at least 2 days following their surgery.
5. When can I return to work?
Most patients can return to non-physical work in 2-3 days after surgery. Patients with physical work can usually return within 1 week.
6. Does it matter if I'm not circumcised?
Circumcision is required prior to penile widening with Alloderm (preferably at least 1 month prior). It is not required prior to penile lengthening.
7. Are the length gains greater in the flaccid or erect states?
Initially, the length gain is usually greater in the flaccid state. However, after the penis stretching program is completed, the length gains in the flaccid and erect state are usually similar.
8. Can the penis enlargement procedures be performed together?
Yes, penis lengthening, penis widening with Alloderm, and penis glans enlargement with hyaluronic-acid gel can be performed together.
9. What are the risks of penis lengthening surgery?
The most common complication following penis lengthening surgery is bleeding which is usually caused by excessive activity soon after the procedure. Possible but rare complications include infection, keloid scarring, penis shortening, erectile dysfunction, or decrease in penis sensation.
10. What are the risks of penis widening surgery with Alloderm?
The most common complication following penis widening surgery with Alloderm is infection which is usually caused by water entering the incision site. Possible but rare complications include penis skin sloughing (especially in smokers), penis shortening, hematoma or seroma formation (collection of blood or serum under the skin), erectile dysfunction, or decrease in penis sensation.
11. What are the risks of penis glans enlargement with hyaluronic-acid gel?
We have not seen any significant complication to date. Possible but rare complications include infection, decrease in penis sensation, change in ejaculatory or erectile function.
12. Are the results of the penis enlargement procedures permanent?
The results from penis lengthening and penis widening are expected to be permanent. The results from penis glans enlargement with hyaluronic-acid gel injections are expected to diminish within 12 months.
13. Will insurance cover these procedures?
Insurance will sometimes cover these procedures if related to a congenital deformity such as micro-penis (less than 4 inches erect) or if medically necessary as in the case of concealed or buried penis in obese patients.