If you’re considering a penile implant to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), you likely have one big question: What will sex be like afterward? The good news is, for many men and their partners, intimacy not only returns, it improves!
Below, we’ll walk through what to expect during sex with a penile implant, plus how the procedure works, what recovery looks like, and why satisfaction rates are so high.
First, What Is a Penile Implant?
A penile implant is a medical device placed inside the penis during a surgical procedure. It’s designed to help men with ED achieve and maintain an erection strong enough for intercourse, even when other treatments like medication haven’t worked.
There are two main types of implants:
- Inflatable implants, which use a fluid-filled system you activate with a small pump hidden in the scrotum.
- Malleable (or semi-rigid) implants, which you position manually.
Both types of implants are internal, discreet, and tailored to your lifestyle and needs. Remember: Your doctor can help you determine which choice is right for you!
What to Expect During Sex
One of the biggest advantages of a penile implant is that it offers on-demand control. When you’re ready for intimacy, you simply activate the implant—and when you’re done, you deactivate it (in the case of an inflatable device).
Here’s what many men report after healing:
- Natural-feeling erections: The implant gives you a firm, reliable erection that feels similar to a natural one—for you and your partner.
- No interference with orgasm or sensation: A penile implant doesn’t affect your ability to climax or feel pleasure. If anything, knowing you can perform reliably may even enhance your experience.
- Spontaneity returns: No waiting for pills to kick in, no worrying about timing. That freedom brings confidence back into your sex life.
What About Your Partner?
Studies show high partner satisfaction rates after a penile implant. Open communication helps, your partner may need time to adjust, but most couples appreciate the renewed sense of connection and spontaneity.
In fact, for many couples, restoring the ability to be intimate on their own terms strengthens emotional closeness. And because the implant is discreet, most partners say they can’t tell the difference!
The Procedure and Recovery
Penile implant surgery is a routine, outpatient procedure that typically takes under an hour. It’s performed under general or spinal anesthesia, and most men return home the same day or the next.
After surgery, you’ll likely experience:
- Mild soreness, swelling, or bruising in the groin area
- Pain that improves steadily over the first week or two
- Restrictions on heavy lifting, sexual activity, and strenuous movement for about 4–6 weeks
Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and teach you how to use the device. Most men can return to normal sexual activity within 6 to 8 weeks, depending on individual healing.
While every person’s recovery is different, the vast majority find the discomfort manageable and temporary, especially when compared to the long-term benefits.
Why Satisfaction Is So High
Penile implants have one of the highest satisfaction rates of any ED treatment, both for patients and their partners. Here’s why:
- Long-lasting results: Once implanted, most devices work well for 10 to 15 years or longer.
- Predictability: Unlike pills or injections, you don’t have to guess whether it’ll work. The implant gives you reliable results every time.
- Discretion: The implant is completely internal—nothing is visible from the outside, and no one will know unless you tell them.
- Confidence boost: Many men report feeling younger, more in control, and more connected to their partner after the procedure.
Most importantly, it restores a part of life that feels personal, powerful, and affirming. And that can have positive ripple effects on mood, relationships, and overall well-being.
The Bottom Line
Sex after a penile implant can feel freeing, empowering, and deeply satisfying. If ED has been holding you back, this solution may be the key to a confident, fulfilling sex life.
Curious about your options? Contact Dr. Nannan Thirumavalavan at (216) 285-5036 today to learn more about whether a penile implant is right for you!