Must-Know Facts for Men about Peyronie’s Disease

By Dr. David Samadi

Men, does your erection look different from what it used to? Does it have a curve or bend? Does it look shorter than usual? Are you having difficulty with sex?   

If you answered “yes” to any of the questions, you may have a condition called Peyronie’s disease. While technically not a disease, Peyronie’s is characterized by penile curvature due to scar tissue formation and affects approximately 1 in 100 men—though the true number may be higher due to underreporting. Understanding the condition and seeking early medical guidance can help prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes.

Recognizing the Signs of Peyronie’s Disease

The first indication of Peyronie’s disease is usually a noticeable change in the shape of the erect penis. The curvature can occur in any direction, though an upward bend is most common. Other signs include narrowing, an hourglass-like shape, or indentations. Many men also experience pain during erections and difficulty with sexual intercourse.

A doctor can diagnose Peyronie’s disease through a physical examination and an ultrasound, which assesses blood flow and detects scar tissue inside the penis.

Causes and Risk Factors

Despite being labeled a “disease,” Peyronie’s is caused by injury. This can result from trauma during sexual activity, sports, or other accidents. While some men recall a specific injury, many do not, as minor traumas can accumulate over time.

In a healthy healing process, the body repairs small injuries without issue. However, in some cases, scar tissue—also called plaque—develops, leading to reduced flexibility and curvature.

Certain factors increase the risk of Peyronie’s disease, including:

• Diabetes: About 11% of men with Peyronie’s also have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, suggesting a strong connection.
• Dupuytren’s Contracture: This hand condition causes fingers to bend abnormally and is linked to a higher likelihood of developing Peyronie’s disease.
• Genetics and Age: Men over 50 are more susceptible to decreased tissue elasticity and healing capacity.

Potential Complications

Beyond physical changes, Peyronie’s disease can significantly impact mental health. Studies suggest nearly half of affected men experience depression or anxiety, often due to concerns about sexual performance and self-esteem. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is another potential consequence, either as a direct result of the condition or due to performance anxiety.

Treatment Options

If you notice changes in your penis, consulting a doctor early is crucial. Initial treatment may focus on symptom management while the condition stabilizes, typically taking about a year. Treatment options include:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Medications: Collagenase injections can help break down scar tissue, improving curvature by about 20 degrees in moderate cases.
• Oral and Topical Therapies: Although less effective, some men try vitamin E, potassium aminobenzoate, or penile traction devices to reduce curvature.

Surgical Treatments (for severe cases)

• Plication: This procedure involves stitching the opposite side of the curvature to straighten the penis. While effective, it may result in a slightly shorter penis.
• Grafting: In more severe cases, the scar tissue is removed and replaced with graft material to restore normal function.
• Penile Implant: This option is ideal for men with both Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction, as it straightens the penis and restores erectile function.

When to Seek Help

The most important step in managing Peyronie’s disease is consulting a specialist familiar with all treatment options. If the curvature is mild and does not interfere with sexual function, monitoring the condition may be enough. However, if it affects intimacy, causes pain, or leads to emotional distress, treatment can improve both physical and mental well-being.

Conclusion

Peyronie’s disease is more common than many men realize, and while it can be distressing, it is treatable. Early diagnosis and the right medical guidance can help preserve sexual health and confidence. If you notice changes, don’t hesitate to seek help—effective solutions are available.

Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy.  Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two book, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery, and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.