Peyronie's Disease: Understanding Penile Curvature and Treatment

Peyronie's disease is a connective tissue disorder that causes the development of fibrous scar tissue (plaque) inside the penis, resulting in curvature, pain, and sometimes erectile dysfunction. It affects up to 10% of men but is often underreported due to embarrassment. Dr. Christopher Vendryes, MD provides discreet, effective treatment in Plantation, FL.

What Causes Peyronie's Disease?

The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from microtrauma during intercourse that triggers abnormal scar formation in genetically predisposed men. It is associated with Dupuytren's contracture, diabetes, and connective tissue disorders.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms include penile curvature (often during erection), palpable plaque or hard area under the skin, pain with erection, shortening of the penis, and erectile dysfunction. Diagnosis is made through physical examination and sometimes ultrasound to assess plaque size and location.

Non-Surgical Treatments

First-line treatments include oral medications, penile traction therapy, vacuum erection devices, and Xiaflex (collagenase) injections — an FDA-approved enzyme that breaks down plaque. Xiaflex can reduce curvature by 30–35% in appropriately selected patients.

Surgical Options

For severe curvature or cases unresponsive to non-surgical treatment, surgical options include penile plication (suturing the opposite side to straighten the penis) and plaque incision with grafting. For men with both Peyronie's and severe ED, penile implant surgery is highly effective.

When to See a Urologist

Any new penile curvature, pain with erection, or palpable lump should be evaluated. Early treatment during the active inflammatory phase often produces the best results.