Bent penis, or correctly medically termed ‘Peyronie’s Disease’ is a painful condition in which a man’s penis develops a curve typically 45 degrees or greater giving the appearance of a bent penis. Even if there is a little curve in your penis, that doesn’t mean you have Peyronie’s disease. Men who’ve had a curvature their whole lives don’t have Peyronie’s disease. In most cases, the scar forms on the top of the penis, causing it to curve upwards when it becomes erect.
Peyronie’s disease is due to the accumulation of abnormal scar tissue or plaques inside the penis. The condition can develop when repeated mild trauma to the penis causes minor damage that accumulates over time.
The trauma caused could be from sports injuries, an accident or sexual activity. Damage causes scar tissue to develop, and the scars (lesions) decrease the ability of the penis to stretch and the organ leans toward the side of the scar.
Other possible underlying causes of a bent penis include:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Inherited fibrous tissue (collagen) abnormality
Peyronie’s disease can also develop in a small percentage of men who undergo radical prostatectomy.
Treatment is offered to men who are experiencing pain, who are unable to engage in sexual activities because of the curvature, and if the curvature is worsening. Surgery is an option to patients if the curvature is severe or if the bent penis prevents sexual activity. Before surgery is performed, the curvature should be stable for at least three months and other treatment options should have been explored.
Peyronie’s disease can cause a significant amount of pain and some penile shortening, as well as prevent men from having sex because of the angle of the penis and/or the pain.
Men with Peyronie’s disease often experience much anxiety and distress related to the disorder.
Diagnosis of Peyronie’s disease involves taking a complete medical history, including any circumstances surrounding the onset of symptoms, and a physical examination. The hardened tissue caused by the disorder can be felt upon examination . Sometimes, it might be necessary to perform the examination with the penis erect. This is achieved by injecting a vasoactive substance that affects the blood vessels in the penis, causing erection.
To book an appointment with our specialist team please contact us to arrange a consultation.
