Penile Curvature Surgery

Penile curvature, like penile thinning and shortening, is classified as a structural deformity. It can cause painful or even physically impossible sexual intercourse for both the patient and their partner.
Many men with penile curvature are negatively affected both psychologically and sexually due to this physical condition, making treatment not just a choice, but often a necessity.

When it comes to penile curvature, Peyronie’s disease—typically seen in older men—is often the first condition that comes to mind. However, penile curvature can also be congenital (present from birth). Therefore, treatment approaches should be categorized into two distinct types: treatment for congenital penile curvature and treatment for Peyronie’s disease. As always, it’s important to begin with a clear understanding of the condition itself. In the following sections, I’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions, such as: 'What is penile curvature?', 'What causes it?', and 'Can it resolve on its own?

What Is Penile Curvature?

Penile curvature is a physical condition characterized by the bending of the penis downward, to the right, or to the left during erection, preventing it from extending in a straight direction. This condition can be either congenital (present from birth) or develop later in life with age. So, what causes it?
Penile curvature can be present from birth or may develop later in life. The causes of these two conditions are different

What Causes Congenital Penile Curvature?

Congenital penile curvature is a condition present from birth in male children. It may be noticeable during infancy, particularly when the penis is erect, and can sometimes be observed when a child urinates standing up, as the urine stream may curve abnormally. Raising parental awareness of these specific signs is important, as early consultation with a urology or andrology specialist can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. Congenital penile curvature is most commonly recognized during puberty, when erections become more frequent and pronounced. There are two main theories regarding its causes. One suggests that the curvature results from uneven development or asymmetry of the corpora cavernosa—the tubular structures within the penis responsible for erection. The second theory involves a condition called hypospadias, in which the opening of the urethra is located lower than normal on the underside of the penis. This abnormal position may interfere with the proper development of the spongy tissue in the penis, leading to curvature after birth.

What Causes Peyronie’s Disease?

Unlike congenital penile curvature, Peyronie’s disease typically develops later in life. It is caused by the formation of fibrous scar tissue, known as plaques, beneath the skin of the penis. These plaques develop in the tunica albuginea — the sheath that surrounds and protects the erectile chambers (corpora cavernosa) within the penis. As these hardened plaques grow, they pull on the surrounding tissue, resulting in bending or curving of the penis during erection. This curvature can cause pain during erections and sexual intercourse, and in severe cases, may even lead to penile fracture. Peyronie’s disease typically progresses in two stages: the acute phase and the chronic phase. Acute Phase (Usually lasts up to 18 months): Inflammation and formation of plaques begin. Curvature of the penis may develop. Pain may occur even without an erection. As plaques progress, pain may increase during erection. Chronic Phase: Begins once plaque formation stabilizes, generally 12–18 months after symptoms first appear. The curvature becomes stable and no longer worsens. Pain may decrease. Erectile dysfunction (ED) may develop or existing ED may worsen. Although the exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is still unknown, several risk factors have been identified: Trauma to the penis Repeated micro-injuries during sexual activity Autoimmune disorders affecting connective tissue Diabetes Advanced age Because multiple risk factors are involved, it is difficult to predict exactly who will develop Peyronie’s disease. What’s important is to recognize the symptoms early and seek medical evaluation to explore appropriate treatment options for penile curvature.

Why Is Early Diagnosis Important?

As with many other medical conditions, early diagnosis plays a crucial role in penile curvature. Whether it is congenital or develops later in life, if left untreated or if treatment is delayed, penile curvature can negatively affect a man's psychological well-being, interfere with sexual function, and potentially lead to erectile dysfunction.