Peyronie’s Disease

What Causes Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease develops when abnormal scar tissue forms within the erectile tissue of the penis. The exact cause is not always clear. While about 20% of men recall a specific injury to the penis—often occurring during sexual activity—most men do not remember any particular trauma. In many cases, experts believe that the normal stress and minor injuries that can occur during regular sexual activity may contribute to the development of this scar tissue over time.

Certain health conditions may increase the likelihood of developing Peyronie’s disease, including erectile dysfunction, Dupuytren’s contracture, and diabetes. However, Peyronie’s disease can affect men of any age and background. It is a relatively common condition and nothing to feel embarrassed about, and safe, effective treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Am I At Risk for Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease is most commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 55. Men who have a family history of Peyronie’s disease or a personal history of connective tissue disorders may have a higher risk of developing the condition.

How Do You Diagnose Peyronie’s Disease?

Diagnosing Peyronie’s disease is often straightforward because the condition usually causes noticeable physical changes. In many cases, a urologist can confirm the diagnosis during a physical examination.

During the exam, your doctor will check for areas of hardened scar tissue and evaluate any curvature of the penis. Imaging or additional diagnostic tests are rarely necessary unless your urologist suspects another underlying condition.

Many men first notice Peyronie’s disease themselves after feeling a lump or firm area in the penis or observing a new curve during erections. A physician can confirm the diagnosis through a careful physical evaluation and, when needed, further testing.

What are the Most Effective Treatments for Peyronie’s Disease?

Treatment for Peyronie’s disease depends on the severity of the condition and how much it affects your daily life and sexual function. Your urologist will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your symptoms.

Observation:
If the curvature is mild and does not interfere with sexual activity, your doctor may recommend monitoring the condition over time. However, if symptoms worsen or begin to affect sexual function, treatment may be recommended to reduce plaque or correct the curvature.

Injections:
Xiaflex® is an FDA-approved medication that can be injected directly into the plaque within the penis. When combined with specific stretching and straightening exercises, Xiaflex helps break down the scar tissue responsible for the curvature. Treatment typically involves one to four cycles, spaced about six weeks apart, with each cycle consisting of two injections. Many men experience significant improvement with this treatment.

Surgery:
In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended. One option includes placing a penile implant, which can help straighten the penis while restoring normal sexual function. This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes less than an hour.

You do not have to live with painful erections, difficulty during intercourse, or other complications related to Peyronie’s disease. If you believe you may have Peyronie’s disease, contact Urology Associates to schedule an evaluation and learn more about your treatment options.

What is XiaFlex®?

Peyronie’s disease occurs when scar tissue (collagen) builds up within the penis, causing it to curve during erections. Xiaflex® is an injectable medication made from enzymes designed to break down this scar tissue.

During treatment, your urologist administers a series of injections directly into the plaque, followed by guided reshaping therapy to help reduce curvature. By targeting and breaking down the collagen buildup, Xiaflex® can improve penile curvature and restore function.

For many men, Xiaflex® is an effective, nonsurgical treatment option for Peyronie’s disease that requires little to no downtime.

Is XiaFlex® Right for Me?

Xiaflex® treatment is typically recommended for men who have specific symptoms associated with Peyronie’s disease, including:

• A Peyronie’s plaque, which is a firm area or lump of scar tissue that can be felt beneath the skin of the penis

• An erection that curves at least 30 degrees

During your consultation, your urologist will review your symptoms and perform an evaluation to determine whether Xiaflex® is an appropriate treatment option for you. If it is not the best fit, there are several other effective treatments for Peyronie’s disease that your doctor can discuss to help you choose the option that best meets your needs.

What Can I Expect from XiaFlex®?

Xiaflex® treatment is performed in the Urology Associates office. To start the procedure, a numbing cream is applied to the area where the injection will be given—directly into the Peyronie’s plaque beneath the skin. Once the area is numb, the medication is carefully injected into the scar tissue, beginning the process of breaking down the plaque.

After the injection, your urologist will gently stretch and straighten the penis to help remodel the tissue and improve the curvature. You will also receive instructions on how to perform similar stretching exercises at home to support the treatment and enhance results.

XiaFlex® Results and Recovery

Most patients need a series of Xiaflex® treatments, typically one to four treatment cycles spaced about six weeks apart. This schedule allows time for the medication’s collagenase enzymes to gradually break down the scar tissue responsible for penile curvature.

During treatment, you will also perform straightening and stretching exercises at home following your urologist’s instructions. Consistently performing these exercises is an important part of achieving the best possible results.

Xiaflex® treatments generally do not require a recovery period, but patients are usually advised to avoid sexual activity between treatment cycles. With proper care and guidance from your urologist, Xiaflex® can provide significant improvement for many men with Peyronie’s disease.