Expert: Stephen W. Leslie, MD - 1/12/2007

Question
I had a a implant put in 6 months ago. From the very onset the pump was and is very hard to get the transfer of fuild.second, on the right side there is this large "bump" that can not only be seen but felt then the tube is not pumped up.
During sex I can't feel as much at all. not numb just that the skin is not pulled as tight over the head. I feel it is because I am now 2 1/2 inches shorter than I was before the implantation was done. My penis is also not as thick by about half.

The implant fills during the day without pumping. My doctor has wanted to place a new implant in then he changes his mind back and forth to a point I have no idea what we are going to do to fix this.

The other thing is that the insurance company says they will not pay for a second implant. I assume that is why he is back and forth on wanting go back to the OR

I have made the worst call in my life letting him do this, all with the promise of a better sex life, a normal working penis, I don't think going from about 8 inches to 5 is normal.

I don't want to sue this guy , I just want to fix it.  

Answer
All of the companies that make inflatable implats will replace the parts for free if they are not working properly.  If the implant is broken and not working the way it should and your insurance company will not cover the surgery to fix it, you should appeal that decision.  Every state has an insurance commissioner or council that regulates insurance.  Keep every piece of paper and strenuously present your case.  You have nothing to lose.

Also, contact your state medical society and urology society for assistance.

Finally, if your physician seems uncertain about what to do, consult another urologist for second opinion.  A university urology medical teaching center is likely to have a specialist with extensive experience in penile implants who can advise you.