Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease is a disorder where the penis bends or curves abnormally while erect. Peyronie’s disease can sometimes be painful and affects about 10% of middle-aged men.

Our board-certified urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta have extensive experience diagnosing Peyronie’s disease and performing medical therapy or corrective procedures when necessary. To schedule a Peyronie’s disease consultation, call one of our offices in Georgia today!

What Is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease occurs when fibrous scar tissue develops inside the penis and causes it to bend or curve. The condition ranges in severity; in extreme cases, the penis curves upward, downward, or severely to the side.

Penises vary in shape and size, and some have a natural curve. The abnormal curve associated with Peyronie’s disease can cause painful erections and make sexual intercourse uncomfortable or, in some cases, even impossible.

What Causes Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease develops when scar tissue builds inside the penis. Medical researchers don’t know precisely what causes scar tissue to form. Many believe it’s due to trauma to the penis during intercourse, athletic activity, or an accident. After an injury, scar tissue can develop, shifting the shape of the penis in the process.

You’re more likely to develop Peyronie’s disease if you have a family history of the condition. Age may be a factor, as many cases of Peyronie’s disease occur in men aged 55 or older. Connective tissue disorders can also lead to Peyronie’s disease since the body already shows signs of abnormal healing habits.

How Is Peyronie’s Disease Treated?

Depending on the severity of your condition and whether or not it affects your life, your doctor might recommend monitoring your situation. However, if the bend or curve of your penis is causing painful erections or the inability to have intercourse, a variety of treatment options are available.

First, the team at Urology of Greater Atlanta uses Penile Duplex Doppler Ultrasound to assess the nature of the plaque and scar tissue in the penis. It allows for a detailed survey of the corpora cavernosa to identify the location and extent of calcification or scarring inside the erectile tissue of the penis. This can help to determine if you are a candidate for certain therapies or operations.

Your physician might prescribe medication to weaken the scar tissue and return your penis to a natural shape. If that proves ineffective, your doctor might suggest an injection containing collagenase, administered into the plaque of your penis in a series of treatments to soften the scar tissue.

They may also suggest trying penile molding to correct the issue. There are also surgical procedures to correct the curvature.

Book a Visit Today

If you notice a change in the shape of your penis, make an appointment with Urology of Greater Atlanta for a consultation immediately. Peyronie’s disease can affect men gradually or all at once; it’s best to address it as soon as possible. Contact one of our offices in Georgia today to schedule an appointment!