Science of Safety

Penile enhancement procedures have grown in popularity, but the risks associated with some techniques—especially those performed by non-urologists—can be significant. It's important to be aware of the potential dangers posed by certain enhancement methods, such as fat injections, silicone sleeves, and non-specialist hyaluronic acid (HA) injections. Here’s an overview of the risks tied to these procedures and why UroFill® stands out as the safer, more reliable option.

HA Injections by Non-Urologists: Why Expertise Matters

Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections have become a popular method for penile girth enhancement, but when performed by non-urologists (such as cosmetic surgeons or general practitioners), the risks increase dramatically. These providers often lack the specific anatomical expertise required for safe injections. Urologists, trained in the intricate anatomy of the penis, understand the importance of injecting between Buck's and Dartos fascia. Injecting into the wrong anatomical plane can lead to complications such as filler migration, infection, and even erectile dysfunction.

Studies have shown that non-specialist cannula techniques often result in complications like granuloma formation and tissue necrosis due to improper placement of the filler. In contrast, the patented UroFill® technique ensures precise placement, significantly reducing the risk of these complications

Intracavernosal Injections Before HA: A Dangerous Technique

Some providers use intracavernosal injections (ICI) to induce an erection before administering HA, but this increases the likelihood of inadvertently injecting filler into the corpora cavernosa. Such a mistake can cause irreversible erectile dysfunction or, in some cases, lead to severe complications like pulmonary embolism. These are rare but life-threatening risks that make this technique particularly dangerous​

Silicone Sleeves: Permanent Solutions, Permanent Problems

Silicone sleeves, rebranded as Penuma or Himplant, are marketed as an option for permanent solutions for penile girth enhancement. However, the Penuma procedure is invasive, requires a longer recovery time, and carries several risks and complications such as severe swelling (oedema), the development of lumps beneath the skin, other deformities that may impair sexual function, deep infections, wounds that don’t heal properly, and extensive scarring that results in penile curvature and entrapment of the erect penis resulting in a shorter buried appearance. The Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA), in a recent position paper, states that "placement of Penuma/Himplant devices should be considered investigational and be performed under the supervision of IRBs pending the availability of long-term data." Other reported complications include:

• Device erosion: Implants may erode through the skin or tissue.

• Penile sensory loss: A loss of sensation can occur, leading to reduced sexual pleasure.

• Erectile dysfunction: Severe cases have even required the implantation of penile prostheses

Fat Injections: Unpredictable and Risky

Fat transfer, another popular method, involves taking fat from another part of the body and injecting it into the penis. However, this method has high complication rates. Up to 70% of the fat is typically reabsorbed by the body within a year, making the results unpredictable and temporary at best. Additionally, fat injections carry the risk of granuloma formation, fat necrosis, and, in severe cases, fat embolism, which can be fatal​.

PLA, Silicone, and Synthetic Fillers: Long-Term Damage

Injections with synthetic materials like polylactic acid (PLA) or silicone are often marketed as permanent solutions, but these materials can trigger severe immune responses, leading to granulomas, filler migration, and skin necrosis. In extreme cases, surgical removal and tissue grafting may be required to correct the damage. The SMSNA strongly advises against these procedures due to their high complication rates.

Dermal Grafts: Infection and Deformity

Dermal grafting, though less common today, is still used by some providers for girth enhancement. This method carries significant risks, including penile shortening, infection, and the development of penile deformities such as curvature. Once fibrosis occurs, the tunica albuginea (the fibrous covering of the erectile tissue) can lose its elasticity, leading to permanent deformities and difficulties with erections​.

Why UroFill® is the Safer Choice

The UroFill® technique stands apart from these risky procedures. By using crosslinked hyaluronic acid and injecting it into the correct anatomical planes, UroFill® enhances both girth and flaccid length without compromising the natural structure or function of the penis. This minimally invasive technique, performed only by certified urologists, offers predictable results.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today to explore safer options for penile enhancement and avoid the risks associated with these invasive procedures.

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To book in for your Men's Health Consultation and Pre-UroFill Assessment, call East Sydney Private Consulting Suites at 1300 017 888 or (02) 9145 2177 to schedule your in person or Telehealth appointment with Dr. Ross Calopedos. Start your journey to better men’s health and a more confident you today!

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