Penis Enlargement Surgery: How Much Does It Cost and Is It Worth the Risk?

Penuma is a form of penile augmentation surgery that places a silicone implant beneath the skin of the penis to create the appearance and feel of increased length and girth. It is intended for cosmetic enhancement, is not approved as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, and typically isn’t covered by health insurance. The procedure can be costly.

How much does it cost?

Penuma is the sole penile enlargement implant cleared for commercial distribution under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) 510(k) pathway. The device holds FDA clearance specifically for cosmetic augmentation.

The out-of-pocket expense for the operation is roughly $15,000, with an initial deposit of about $1,000 required.

Currently, Penuma is not covered by insurance plans and is not authorized to treat erectile dysfunction.

The procedure was developed by James Elist, MD, FACS, FICS, based in Beverly Hills, California. He remains one of only a couple of certified providers.

Continue reading to find out how the Penuma implant is placed, the possible complications, and whether it demonstrably increases penis size.

How does this procedure work?

The Penuma implant is a crescent-shaped, medical-grade silicone device positioned under the penile skin to augment both length and circumference. It comes in three sizes: large, extra-large, and extra-extra-large.

The anatomical structures that determine penile form are mainly two types:

• Corporeal bodies (corpora cavernosa): two cylindrical structures running side-by-side along the dorsal (top) aspect of the penis
• Corpus spongiosum: a single cylindrical structure along the ventral (underside) of the penis that envelops the urethra, the channel for urine

Your Penuma device is tailored to suit your penis anatomy and is placed over the corpora cavernosa like an external sheath.

The implant is introduced via an incision in the groin area just above the penis base. The device stretches the overlying skin and tissues, producing a fuller and longer-looking shaft.

According to Dr. Elist’s site, individuals who undergo the Penuma procedure report average increases in length and girth of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches in both the flaccid and erect states.

The average adult male penis measures about 3.6 inches in length (and about 3.7 inches in circumference) when flaccid, and roughly 5.2 inches long (4.6 inches in girth) when erect.

With the Penuma implant, an average penis might reach up to roughly 6.1 inches flaccid and about 7.7 inches when erect.

Things to consider

Key points to know about Penuma surgery include:

• If you are not already circumcised, you will need to undergo circumcision prior to implant placement.
• The operation is performed on an outpatient basis; you can return home the same day.
• You must arrange transportation to and from the surgical facility.
• Surgery typically requires 45 minutes to an hour to complete.
• General anesthesia is used so you will be asleep during the procedure.
• A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled two to three days after surgery.
• Postoperative swelling of the penis can persist for several weeks.
• You should refrain from masturbation and sexual intercourse for about six weeks after the procedure.

Are there any side effects or risks?

As with any operation, there are risks tied to anesthesia.

Common side effects related to anesthesia may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• fatigue
• hoarseness
• confusion

Anesthesia can also raise the risk of more serious events such as:

• pneumonia
• heart attack
• stroke

The Penuma manufacturer notes that patients may experience painful erections and some reduction in penile sensation during the first few weeks; these effects are generally transient.

If pain or numbness persists beyond several days, contact your surgeon. In certain instances, removing and then reinserting the implant has relieved these problems.

Research evaluating men who underwent this surgery lists potential complications including:

• implant perforation and infection
• separation or failure of sutures (suture detachment)
• implant fragmentation
• blood clots forming in penile tissues

Additionally, post-surgical appearance may result in a markedly bulkier penis or a shape you find unsatisfactory.

Discuss realistic expectations about your postoperative penile appearance with your surgeon before proceeding.

Is this procedure always successful?

The Penuma website asserts a high success and satisfaction rate, claiming that many complications stem from inadequate adherence to postoperative care instructions.

An analysis published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine on a cohort of 400 men who had the Penuma implant reported that 81 percent rated their satisfaction as “high” or “very high.”

A minority of participants developed complications such as seroma, scar tissue, and infection. Approximately 3 percent required implant removal because of postoperative problems.

The bottom line

Penuma is an expensive cosmetic option that some individuals may find valuable.

Manufacturers report substantial satisfaction and enhanced self-confidence among many recipients, but the procedure can also produce undesired, sometimes lasting adverse effects.

If you are worried about your penis size or shape, consult your physician. They can discuss nonoperative alternatives and help determine whether surgery is an appropriate option for you.