What is a penile implant?
A penile implant (also called a penile prosthesis) is a medical device placed inside the penis to help men with erectile dysfunction (ED) achieve and maintain an erection. It’s a permanent solution for men who haven't found success with medications or other treatments.
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How does a penile implant work?
The implant mimics the natural erection process. The way it works depends on its type:
1. Inflatable penile implants provide the most natural-feeling erection with the ability to control when and how long you have an erection. To create an erection, the patient activates the pump in the scrotum, which transfers fluid into the cylinders to make the penis firm. Inflatable implants can have:
- 2 pieces: this version includes the penis pump and cylinders only. The fluid is stored directly in the pump.
- 3 pieces: adds a reservoir in the abdomen. The reservoir stores the fluid, allowing for a more natural-feeling and adjustable erection.
2. Malleable implants are bendable rods that keep the penis permanently firm but you can adjust the angle to your preference.
How much does a penile implant cost?
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According to Bookimed’s research, the average penile implant surgery cost is between $6,000 and $20,000.
However, costs vary widely depending on where you have the procedure done.
- In the US and UK, the penile implant price can range from $15,000 to $40,000. For more complex cases, hospitals may charge up to $50,000.
- In Turkey, the cost of penile implant surgery ranges from $5,500 to $14,500.
- In Thailand, penile implants cost between $8,000 and $16,000.
By choosing to have the surgery in countries like Turkey or Thailand, you can save up to 60%–70% compared to US or UK prices.
👉 Note: The lower costs in these countries are mainly due to the lower cost of living and operational expenses. Plus, Turkey and Thailand are major medical tourism hubs, so clinics offer competitive pricing to attract foreign patients.
Surgeons in Turkey and Thailand are members of international organizations like the European Association of Urology. They have international training, work in globally accredited clinics, and use FDA-approved implants.
How much do different types of penile implants cost?
The cost of penile surgery also depends on the type of implant:
➤ Malleable implants are less expensive and easier to maintain, but don’t offer as much flexibility. They cost around $8,500 in Turkey and Thailand, and between $16,000–$19,000 in the US.
➤ Inflatable penile prosthesis costs 40%–70% more because they contain more sophisticated mechanical components and require more complex surgery. Advanced 3-piece inflatable implants with girth expansion cost $14,000 to $16,000 internationally and can reach around $35,000 in the US.
What factors affect penile implant cost?
The final penile prosthesis price depends on several key factors:
1. Type of implant
Inflatable penile prosthesis will cost more than malleable options due to their added components and adjustability.
2. Geographic location
US-based procedures typically cost 60%–70% more than the same surgery in countries like Turkey or Thailand. Even within the US, prices vary between major cities and smaller towns.
3. Surgeon’s experience
A more experienced surgeon might charge higher fees, but can contribute to better outcomes and fewer complications.
4. Clinic’s reputation
Highly rated, well-known clinics with advanced technology or international accreditations charge higher fees for their services.
5. Included services
Clinics in Turkey and Thailand offer all-inclusive packages covering surgery, accommodation, transportation, and follow-up care. On the other hand, clinics in the US and UK usually charge separately for each service. Remember that, if not included in the cost, facility fees like operating room time, hospital stay, and nursing care will account for 30%–40% of the total bill.
What’s included in the cost of penile implant surgery?
In some clinics, the cost may only cover the surgeon’s fee, and additional expenses like anesthesia, facility fees, and follow-up care will be charged separately.
However, clinics in Turkey and Thailand offer package deals that cover:
- surgery and all associated fees (including anesthesia);
- consultations before and after surgery;
- hospitalization and post-operative care.
Clinics also offer all-inclusive packages that include:
- VIP rooms;
- hotel stay;
- transfers (airport to hotel/clinic);
- pre-op tests;
- post-op medications;
- meals during your stay.
An all-inclusive package helps avoid surprise costs and provides a more comfortable experience.
Does health insurance cover penile implant surgery?
Yes, health insurance plans usually cover penile implant surgery when it's deemed medically necessary.
To qualify, you'll need to demonstrate:
- a medical diagnosis of erectile dysfunction;
- failed attempts with less invasive treatments (like oral medications, injections, or vacuum devices);
- significant impact on your quality of life.
Even with approval, the extent of insurance coverage varies by insurance company and policy. Some plans offer only partial coverage.
In any case, expect some out-of-pocket costs, including:
- deductible payments (often $1,000–$5,000);
- coinsurance (10%–30% of the approved amount);
- copayments for office visits and follow-up care.
How does penile implant surgery compare to other ED treatments?
Other common treatments for erectile dysfunction include:
- oral medications — help increase blood flow to the penis for an erection ($20–$70 per pill);
- penile injections — meds directly injected into the penis to cause an erection ($650–$700 per month of moderate use).
Since penile prosthesis can last up to 20 years, it involves higher short-term costs but lower long-term expenses. In contrast, other ED treatments like oral medications come with recurring costs, so the expenses can quickly add up to $700–$950 per year. These costs continue year after year, making them a more expensive treatment option in the long run.
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ED treatment
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20-year cost
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Considerations
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Penile prosthesis surgery
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$5,500+
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One-time cost, complete control of erections
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ED pills
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$14,000+
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Require timing and use before each sexual intercourse
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Penile injections
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$156,000+
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Require training, may cause slight pain and priapism
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➡️ Read more about the cost of erectile dysfunction treatment.
In addition to the traditional methods, there are some innovative methods to treat erectile dysfunction, though these may also have ongoing costs:
1. P-Shot (Priapus Shot)
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is injected into the penis to enhance blood flow and improve erectile function.
✦ Effect duration: 12+ months.
✦ Cost: $1,000–$2,400.
2. Shock wave therapy
Low-intensity sound waves stimulate blood vessel growth in the penis.
✦ Effect duration: 1–2 years.
✦ Cost: $650–$3,500.
3. Stem cell therapy
Stem cells regenerate erectile tissue and blood vessels.
✦ Effect duration: 1–3 years.
✦ Cost: $1,600–$5,000 per session.
4. Botox for ED
Botox injections relax muscles in the penis and improve blood flow.
✦ Effect duration: 6–8 months
✦ Cost: $1,000–$2,000.
➡️ Read Bookimed’s research into the latest ED treatments.
Resources
- Mayo Clinic. (2024). Penile implants. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/penile-implants/about/pac-20384916
- Michigan Medicine. (2024). The truth about penile implants. https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/truth-about-penile-implants
- International Journal of Impotence Research. (2024). Patient out-of-pocket costs for guideline-recommended treatments for erectile dysfunction: a medicare cost modeling analysis. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41443-024-00903-9
- Medical News Today. (2025). Does Medicare cover penile implants? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-medicare-cover-penile-implants