Specialist Care When an Implant Needs Revision
Revision penile implant surgery is one of the most specialised areas of prosthetic urology. Some men need revision because their device has reached the end of its mechanical life. Others present with pain, poor positioning, infection, erosion, incorrect sizing, glans instability, persistent curvature or dissatisfaction after surgery performed elsewhere.
As one of the higher-volume penile implant surgeons in NSW, Dr Ross Calopedos is frequently asked to manage complex revision cases, including some of the more challenging presentations in prosthetic urology.
Why Revision Surgery Is More Complex
Revision is usually more involved than first-time implant surgery. Scar tissue, infection, poor cylinder sizing, pump position issues and reservoir problems can all make further surgery more challenging. These cases require careful judgement, advanced surgical planning and a detailed understanding of how implants fail, how scar tissue behaves, and how to preserve future function.
Salvage Surgery for Infection
In the uncommon situation of an infected device, rather than simply removing the implant and waiting months before considering replacement, salvage surgery may be appropriate. This involves removing the infected device, thoroughly washing out the implant space and placing a new prosthesis, often an antibiotic-impregnated malleable implant, during the same operation.
The aim is to control infection while preserving penile length and preventing the scar contraction and loss of size that can occur when the implant space collapses after a device is removed. Not every patient is suitable for salvage surgery, but where appropriate it can be an important strategy for protecting future function.
Why the First Operation Matters
The best revision is the one that never becomes necessary. Correct implant sizing, careful tissue handling, appropriate device selection, infection prevention, comfortable pump positioning, safe reservoir placement and structured aftercare all reduce the risk of problems after surgery.
Dr Ross’s experience with complex revision directly informs how he approaches first-time implant surgery, understanding what can go wrong helps guide the decisions that matter from the very start.
Speak with Dr Ross
Considering Your Options?
A consultation with Dr Ross is the best place to understand whether this treatment is right for you, what it involves, and the results you can realistically expect.
He takes the time to listen, examine and explain your options clearly, so you can make an informed decision at your own pace, with expert, confidential advice tailored to your situation.
Ask Dr Ross.
If you are not ready to make an appointment but would like more information, we are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why Might a Penile Implant Need Revision?
Common reasons include a device reaching the end of its mechanical life, infection, erosion, incorrect sizing, pump or reservoir position problems, glans instability, persistent curvature, or dissatisfaction following surgery elsewhere. A thorough assessment determines what is needed in each case.
What Is Salvage Surgery?
Salvage surgery is performed when an implant becomes infected. Rather than removing the device and waiting months before replacement, the infected device is removed, the space is thoroughly washed out, and a new prosthesis is placed in the same operation where appropriate, helping to control infection while preserving penile length.
I Had My Implant Done Elsewhere. Can Dr Ross Help?
Yes. Dr Ross regularly manages revision and complex cases, including implants originally placed by other surgeons. If you are experiencing problems or are unhappy with a previous result, a consultation can clarify your options.
Visit Dr Ross at one of our convenient Sydney locations
Kalix Healthcare Specialists - Bella Vista
Suite 5.14 The Bond
8 Elizabeth Macarthur Drive, Bella Vista 2153
Kalix Healthcare Specialists - Kingsford
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