Skyline Urology
Urologists located in Torrance, CA
Did you know that 6 out of every 100 men between the ages of 40 and 70 have Peyronie’s disease? And because many men are too embarrassed to discuss the problem with a physician, the number is probably even higher. Urologists Royal S. Park, MD, and Alec S. Koo, MD, at Skyline Urology located in Torrance, California, offer compassionate care for Peyronie’s disease in a private, state-of-the-art environment. Call to schedule an exam today or book online.
Peyronie’s Disease Q & A
What is Peyronie’s disease?
Peyronie’s disease is a painful condition marked by the development of fibrous scar tissue inside a man’s penis. Over time, this scar tissue causes the penis to bend, making it difficult to get an erection or have sex.
What are the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease?
The symptoms of Peyronie’s disease vary from patient-to-patient. Sometimes the condition comes on suddenly with no warning, other times it develops gradually. The most common side effects associated with Peyronie’s disease include:
Scar tissue
As Peyronie’s disease progresses, bands of hardened tissue and noticeable lumps develop under the skin of your penis.
Bending and shortening of the penis
Penises vary in shape and size and a slight curvature is nothing to worry about. However, Peyronie’s disease significantly alters the appearance of your penis. If you have Peyronie’s disease, your penis may bend up or down or even develop an hourglass shape.
Erectile problems and pain
Peyronie’s disease is a leading cause of erectile dysfunction. Many men also experience pain with or without an erection.
What are the phases of Peyronie’s disease?
Peyronie’s disease develops during two separate phases: chronic and acute.
Acute phase
The acute phase lasts between 6-18 months. During this time period, scar tissue and plaques begin forming, causing your penis to bend. As more scar tissue develops, it’s common to experience pain during erections.
Chronic phase
The chronic phase occurs when scar tissue stops forming, preventing your penis from bending any further. During the chronic phase, it’s rare to experience pain during an erection.
How is Peyronie’s disease diagnosed?
The team at Skyline Urology offers comprehensive screening and diagnosis of Peyronie’s disease. In most cases, a physical exam is enough to pinpoint the symptoms, as scar tissue and plaque are visible even without an erection.
To determine how much your penis curves, your Skyline Urology provider may also inject a drug to induce an erection. They can also perform a dynamic ultrasound to detect calcium buildup and monitor blood flow to your penis.
How is Peyronie’s disease treated?
Treatment for Peyronie’s disease depends on the severity of your symptoms. At Skyline Urology, the team offers an array of treatment options including oral prescription medications as well as penile injections, including Xiaflex and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and noninvasive, low-intensity shock wave therapy.
For men suffering from painful erections, surgical intervention may be necessary. However, you should put off surgery until the plaque stops developing and pain ceases for between 9-12 months.
Don’t let Peyronie’s disease put a damper on your sex life, call or use the online booking tool to make an appointment at Skyline Urology today.