Peyronie disease is more common than most men realize, affecting an estimated 5 to 10 percent of adult men. If you have noticed a curve, indentation, shortening, or pain with erections that was not there before, you may be dealing with Peyronie disease. It is not something you caused, it is not something you should ignore, and it is treatable.
At Urology Associates of Green Bay, we offer the full range of Peyronie disease treatment, from Xiaflex injections to surgical correction to penile prosthesis placement for men with both curvature and erectile dysfunction. Your care is overseen by board certified urologists with experience in male sexual health and reconstructive surgery.
Concerned about penile curvature? Schedule a confidential consultation. Call (920) 433-9400 (De Pere) or (715) 732-3420 (Marinette), or request an appointment online.
Understanding the Disease
Peyronie disease is caused by the formation of fibrous scar tissue (plaque) inside the tunica albuginea, the tough sheath surrounding the erectile bodies of the penis. This plaque prevents normal expansion during an erection, pulling the penis toward the side of the scar and creating curvature, indentation, or an hourglass deformity. It can also cause penile shortening and pain, particularly during the early phase of the disease.
The disease typically progresses through two phases. The acute phase, lasting roughly 6 to 18 months, involves active inflammation and potential worsening of curvature. The chronic or stable phase occurs once the plaque has matured and the curvature has stopped changing. Treatment decisions depend on which phase you are in, the degree of curvature, the impact on sexual function, and your goals.
Xiaflex Injection Therapy
For men in the stable phase with moderate curvature (typically 30 degrees or more), Xiaflex (collagenase clostridium histolyticum) is an FDA approved injectable treatment that breaks down the collagen in the plaque. Treatment involves a series of injection cycles performed in our office, with each cycle consisting of two injections spaced a few days apart followed by a period of penile modeling exercises. Most men complete three to four cycles.
Xiaflex can produce meaningful improvement in curvature, though it does not eliminate the plaque entirely. The goal is to reduce curvature enough to restore comfortable, functional intercourse. Not every patient is a candidate, and we discuss realistic expectations before starting treatment.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is considered for men in the stable phase whose curvature is severe, who have not responded to Xiaflex, or who have both Peyronie disease and erectile dysfunction. We offer several surgical approaches tailored to the individual situation.
Plication procedures straighten the penis by placing permanent sutures on the side opposite the plaque. This is the simplest surgical approach and works well for men with adequate erectile function and moderate curvature. It does result in some penile shortening on the longer side.
Plaque incision or excision with grafting involves cutting into or removing the scar tissue and placing a graft to restore normal anatomy. This approach is used for more severe curvature or complex deformities and can preserve more length than plication, though the recovery is longer.
For men with both Peyronie disease and ED, penile prosthesis placement combined with intraoperative straightening addresses both problems in a single surgery. The prosthesis restores erectile function, and the curvature is corrected during the same procedure through modeling, plication, or grafting as needed. Dr. Mian performs these combined procedures at Emplify Health in Green Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peyronie disease?
Peyronie disease is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue (plaque) forms inside the penis, causing curvature, indentation, shortening, or pain with erections. It affects an estimated 5 to 10 percent of men and can significantly impact sexual function and quality of life.
What causes Peyronie disease?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from repeated minor trauma to the penis during sexual activity or other physical stress, followed by an abnormal wound healing response that produces scar tissue. Genetics and connective tissue disorders may also play a role.
Can Peyronie disease improve on its own?
In some cases, pain may improve over time as the acute phase resolves. Significant curvature rarely improves substantially without treatment, however. For men whose curvature is interfering with sexual function or causing distress, waiting is not always the best option. We can help you understand where you are in the disease process and what your realistic options are.
Is ED related to Peyronie disease?
Yes, ED can co-occur with Peyronie disease. It may result from the plaque itself affecting blood flow, from the psychological impact of the curvature, or from an underlying vascular condition that contributes to both problems. When both are present, a penile prosthesis combined with surgical straightening can address both in a single procedure.
Do you see patients from outside the Green Bay area?
Yes. We see patients from across northeastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Call our De Pere office at (920) 433-9400 or our Marinette office at (715) 732-3420.
Get Answers
Peyronie disease can be frustrating and isolating, but it is common, it is not your fault, and effective treatment is available. A confidential evaluation is the first step. Call our De Pere office at (920) 433-9400 or our Marinette office at (715) 732-3420.
Urology Associates of Green Bay. Comprehensive Peyronie disease care, from Xiaflex to surgical correction.