Peyronie’s disease

At Circle Health Group, our consultant urologists are experts in identifying and treating Peyronie's disease, offering various private Peyronie's disease treatment options. We understand that this can be a sensitive and difficult topic to discuss, but we are here to provide the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

One of our experienced specialists will take a detailed history of your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and may recommend additional tests or scans to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition. Once a diagnosis has been made, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.

Treatment options for Peyronie's disease may include:

• Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
• Physiotherapy to improve the range of motion and reduce the curvature of the penis
• Injections to reduce inflammation and pain
• Surgery (in cases where more conservative treatment options have not been effective)

Our goal is to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. We will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you receive the best possible care and support. With our comprehensive Peyronie's disease treatment options, you can be sure that you are in good hands.

Symptoms of Peyronie's disease can vary from person to person, and the severity of the symptoms can also vary. It's important to note that not all men who have Peyronie's disease will experience symptoms.

The most common symptoms of Peyronie's disease include:

A curved or bent penis

This is the most common symptom of Peyronie's disease and is typically the first symptom that men notice. The curvature can vary from mild to severe, and can be in different directions, such as upward, downward, or to the side.

Pain during erections

Many men with Peyronie's disease experience pain during erections. This pain can be mild or severe, and can occur at the site of the plaque or along the entire penis. Pain can also occur during intercourse, which can affect sexual function.

Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection

Peyronie's disease can make it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. This can be due to the pain or the curvature of the penis, which can make intercourse difficult or impossible.

Emotional and psychological distress

Peyronie's disease can cause emotional and psychological distress for those affected by the condition. This can include depression, anxiety, and feelings of shame or embarrassment. These feelings happen as a result of the physical symptoms of Peyronie's disease, such as a curved or bent penis, and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. This emotional distress can also affect relationships and overall quality of life.

Other symptoms of Peyronie's disease

Less common Peyronie's disease symptoms include:

• Hard lumps or nodules on the penis - Some men with Peyronie's disease develop hard lumps or nodules on the penis. These lumps can be located at the site of the plaque and can be tender to the touch
• Shortening of the penis - Peyronie's disease can cause the penis to shorten, which can be due to the plaque or scar tissue pulling the penis in one direction. This can make intercourse difficult or impossible

Peyronie's disease can cause a significant curvature of the penis, often accompanied by pain and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. The affected area of the penis may also be swollen or hard to the touch. In some cases, the affected area may appear as a lump or swelling on the penis. It is important to note that every case of Peyronie's disease is different and the symptoms and appearance of the condition can vary from person to person.

Peyronie's disease vs normal curvature

A slight curvature of the penis is totally normal and not necessarily a symptom of Peyronie's disease. Peyronie's disease is characterised by a significant curvature of the penis, often accompanied by pain and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

Hourglass Peyronie's disease

Hourglass Peyronie's disease is a specific type of Peyronie's disease that causes a constriction or narrowing of the shaft of the penis, creating an hourglass shape. This can cause pain and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

Mild Peyronie's disease

Some cases of Peyronie's disease are mild, without much change in shape, and may not require treatment, though the condition can progress over time and may require treatment in the future.

The symptoms of Peyronie's disease can change over time. Some men may experience a worsening of symptoms, while others may experience improvement. If you are experiencing any symptoms of Peyronie's disease, it's important to seek the advice of a specialist.

Peyronie's disease is a condition that affects the tissue of the penis, causing the formation of scar tissue or plaque that can result in a curved or bent penis. The exact cause of Peyronie's disease is not fully understood, but there are several factors that are believed to contribute to the development of the condition.

Trauma or Injury

One of the most common causes of Peyronie's disease is trauma or injury to the penis. This can occur during sexual intercourse, sports activities, or any other activity that puts stress on the penis. Injury to the penis can cause inflammation and bleeding within the tissue, leading to the formation of scar tissue.

Genetics

Research suggests that there may be a genetic component to Peyronie's disease. Some people may be more prone to developing the condition due to inherited genetic factors. Studies have shown that men with Peyronie's disease are more likely to have a family member with the condition.

Age

As a person gets older, the risk of developing Peyronie's disease increases. The condition is most common in men over the age of 40. As men age, the connective tissue in the penis becomes less elastic and more prone to injury, increasing the risk of developing Peyronie's disease.

Other medical conditions

Certain medical conditions such as Dupuytren's contracture (a condition that affects the tissue of the hand and can cause the formation of scar tissue) have been linked to an increased risk of developing Peyronie's disease. Additionally, men with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol may be at increased risk for developing Peyronie's disease.

Medications

Some medications, including testosterone replacement therapy and certain blood pressure medications, have been linked to an increased risk of developing Peyronie's disease.

Not all cases of Peyronie's disease can be attributed to a specific cause. Some cases may be the result of a combination of factors.

There are several non-surgical options for treating Peyronie's disease, including medications, physiotherapy, and injections. These options can help to manage symptoms and improve the curvature of the penis.

Medications

Certain medications have been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with Peyronie's disease. In some cases, these medications may also help to reduce the curvature of the penis. These medications can be administered by injection and/or orally.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can help to improve the range of motion and reduce the curvature of the penis. Penile traction devices and vacuum erection devices have been shown to be effective in treating Peyronie's disease. These devices work by applying gentle pressure to the penis, stretching the tissue and improving blood flow. A therapist can help you to learn how to use these devices and guide you through the process.

Injections

Injections of collagenase clostridium histolyticum, a medication that breaks down collagen, can be used to treat Peyronie's disease. This treatment is typically recommended for men with severe cases of Peyronie's disease. The injections are usually given in a series of treatments and are administered by a consultant urologist.

Shockwave therapy

Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to break down the scar tissue that causes Peyronie's disease. This treatment can help to improve the curvature of the penis, reduce pain, and improve erectile function. The therapy is usually given in a series of treatments, typically 2-3 times a week for a period of 3-4 weeks. It is a relatively new treatment for Peyronie's disease, but studies have shown it to be effective.

In cases where more conservative treatment options have not been effective, surgery may be recommended. Surgery can help to straighten the penis and improve erectile function.

Penile grafting

Penile grafting involves taking tissue from another part of the body, such as the forearm, and using it to replace the scar tissue in the penis. This can help to straighten the penis and improve erectile function. This procedure is usually recommended for men with severe cases of Peyronie's disease and is performed by a consultant urological surgeon.

Penile plaque excision

During penile plaque excision, the surgeon removes the plaque that is causing the curvature of the penis. This can help to straighten the penis, but may result in erectile dysfunction. This procedure is usually recommended for men with severe cases of Peyronie's disease and is performed by a urologist.

Penile prosthesis implantation

Penile implant surgery is a surgical option that can be used to treat Peyronie's disease in cases where other treatments have not been effective or where erectile dysfunction is present. This procedure involves the insertion of a penile prosthesis, or artificial device, into the penis. This procedure can help to straighten your penis and improve erectile function, but it does come with the risk of complications, and it is not recommended for all patients. Your specialist at Circle Health Group can help you to determine if this procedure is the right option for you.

If you are experiencing symptoms of Peyronie's disease, it is important to seek the advice of a specialist. At Circle Health Group, our leading urologists are experts in identifying and treating Peyronie's disease, including private Peyronie's disease treatment options.

How we make a diagnosis

During your initial consultation, your specialist will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination of your penis. They may also order tests such as an ultrasound or MRI scan to assess the extent of the condition and determine the best course of treatment.

Your first consultation is crucial in determining the best course of treatment for Peyronie's disease. It is important to catch the condition early on in order to take the necessary steps to prevent it from progressing and causing more severe symptoms.

How we decide what treatment is best for you

Your consultant urologist will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and the severity of your Peyronie's disease. Treatment options may include medications, physiotherapy, injections, or surgery.

Don't let Peyronie's disease hold you back. Book a consultation today and let our experts help you find the treatment that is right for you.

We answer your commonly asked questions about Peyronie's disease.

Is Peyronie's disease permanent?

In some cases, Peyronie's disease may resolve on its own without treatment. However, in many cases the condition is chronic and can progress over time. Treatment options such as medication, physiotherapy, and surgery can help to manage symptoms and improve the curvature of the penis.

What does Peyronie's disease look like?

Peyronie's disease can cause a curved or bent penis, as well as a lump or swelling in the tissue of the penis. The curvature may be significant enough to make intercourse difficult, painful or even impossible.

Do vacuum pumps work for Peyronie's disease?

Vacuum pumps can be used to help improve the curvature of the penis in cases of Peyronie's disease. By applying gentle pressure to the penis, vacuum pumps can help to stretch the tissue and improve blood flow. Speak to your consultant about whether this is a safe and viable option for you.

How long does it take to cure Peyronie's disease?

The length of time it takes to treat Peyronie's disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment options chosen. In some cases, Peyronie's disease may resolve on its own without treatment. However, in many cases, treatment may be required to manage symptoms and improve the curvature of the penis.

How to cure Peyronie's disease without surgery?

There are several non-surgical treatment options for Peyronie's disease, including medication, physiotherapy, and injections. In some cases, these treatments may be effective in managing symptoms and improving the curvature of the penis without the need for surgery. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be the best option for achieving the desired outcome.

What is the best treatment for Peyronie's disease?

The best treatment for Peyronie's disease will depend on the individual case and the severity of the condition. Treatment options may include medication, physiotherapy, injections, or surgery. Our experienced specialists at Circle Health Group will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.

Does Peyronie's disease cause ED?

Peyronie's disease can cause erectile dysfunction (ED) by causing the tissue of the penis to become less flexible and less able to expand during an erection. Treatment options such as medication, physiotherapy, and surgery can help to manage symptoms and improve the curvature of the penis, which may help to improve ED.

How to prevent Peyronie's disease?

The exact cause of Peyronie's disease is not well understood, so it is difficult to say how to prevent the condition. However, research suggests that avoiding injury to the penis and managing other conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure may help to reduce the risk of developing Peyronie's disease.

Can you treat Peyronie's disease at home?

While some home remedies may help to manage symptoms of Peyronie's disease, such as stretching exercises, it is important to consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options such as medication, physiotherapy, and surgery can help to manage symptoms and improve the curvature of the penis.

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:

• Flexible appointment times and locations to suit your routine
• The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant fits your needs
• Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your specific requirements
• Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
• Private cosy ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
• Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
• Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care

If you would like to learn more about treatment for Peyronie's disease, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly on 0141 300 5009.

Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in January 2023. Next review due January 2026.

1. Is it normal to have a curved penis?, NHS
2. What Is Peyronie’s Disease?, WebMD
3. What is Peyronie’s Disease?, Urology Care Foundation
4. Peyronie’s Disease, Cleveland Clinic
5. Peyronie’s Disease, John Hopkins Medicine
6. Understanding ED: Peyronie’s Disease, Healthline
7. Penile Curvature, NIH