The erections last between 40 and 60 minutes and most men report no adverse side effects. In a small percentage of men, scar tissue may form at the site of the injection. Because having an implant will destroy the natural erection reflex, it is important to use this option only when erections are unlikely to improve on their own. The rod can be bent up into an erection, or down into a relaxed position. The implant procedure is simple and there is little risk of infection or other complications.
Inflatable implants are more complicated.
They are made up of a small reservoir, two cylinders on either side of the penis, and a pump that transfers fluid into the cylinders to create an erection. After sex, a valve releases the liquid back into the reservoir. There are several models of inflatable implants that range from simple to more complex. For a more comprehensive discussion of penile implants click here . When dealing with erectile dysfunction, it may make sense to start with the least invasive method first, and proceed from there.