Peyronie's disease causes an erection to curve, as a result of a problem with how the body heals after an injury. It's a connective tissue disorder: the body fails to properly regulate the amount of scar tissue it lays down, and the excess accumulates as a lump beneath the skin of the penis, known as Peyronie's plaque.
You may be able to feel this lump of scar tissue if you feel along the inside of the bend. The erect penis curves upward if the plaque develops on the top, or to one side if it develops on that side.
What causes it
- Injury to the penis during sex, an accident, or physical activity, often minor enough that it wasn't noticed at the time
- Genetics: men with relatives who have Peyronie's or related connective tissue disorders (such as Dupuytren's contracture) are more susceptible
- Age: older men are more likely to have erections that are less rigid and more flexible, which increases the chance of the micro-injury that starts the process
Symptoms
- A curved erection, with or without pain
- A palpable plaque or hard bulge along the shaft
- Pain during erection, especially in the early phase
- Shortening of the erect penis
- Erectile dysfunction, which frequently develops alongside
- Difficulty or discomfort with intercourse, and the frustration and anxiety that come with it
Two phases, two approaches
The acute phase (roughly the first 6 to 18 months) involves active inflammation, changing curvature and often pain. Treatment here aims to interrupt the scarring process before the plaque matures.
The chronic phase follows, when the curve has stabilized and pain has usually resolved. Treatment here focuses on reducing the existing plaque and improving function.
Knowing which phase you're in changes what we recommend, which is why an in-person assessment matters.
Treatment options
- Shockwave / pulse wave therapy to target the plaque and improve blood flow
- Injectable therapies administered directly into the plaque
- Traction therapy protocols
- Treatment of accompanying erectile dysfunction, which is often the more distressing symptom
- Referral for surgical evaluation in severe, stable cases where non-surgical options aren't sufficient. We'll tell you when that's the right call
Don't wait it out
Peyronie's is far more treatable in its earlier phase. If you've noticed a change in curvature, a lump, or pain with erection, come in and get it assessed. This is a routine conversation for our providers.