Aug, 23 2025
Can avanafil help ED when there’s curvature, scarring, or nerve injury? Clear, evidence-based guide on who benefits, how to use it, safety, and next steps.
Peyronie's Disease – What It Is and How to Manage It
Did you know that up to 1 in 100 men will develop a noticeable bend in their penis at some point? That’s Peyronie's disease, a condition where scar tissue forms inside the shaft and causes curvature, pain, or difficulty during sex. If you’ve noticed a new bend or ache after an injury, you’re probably wondering what’s going on and how to fix it.
Common Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
The first clue is usually a change in shape. A curved shaft that points up, down, or sideways can appear suddenly or develop slowly over months. Along with the bend, many men feel pain during erections – often described as a sharp tug or dull ache that fades after a few minutes.
Other red flags include lumps or hard spots you can feel under the skin and a shortening of the penis when it’s erect. Some guys also notice trouble getting or keeping an erection because the scar tissue interferes with blood flow. If any of these symptoms show up, don’t wait; early assessment makes treatment easier.
Why It Happens and Treatment Choices
Peyronie's disease starts when tiny tears in the tunica albuginea – the tough layer around the erectile tissue – heal with excess collagen. The body’s natural scar‑forming process creates a plaque that can’t stretch like surrounding tissue, leading to curvature.
Risk factors include a recent blow to the groin, genetics (it sometimes runs in families), and certain health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Smoking and excessive alcohol use may also slow healing and worsen scar formation.
When it comes to treatment, there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. Doctors often start with “watchful waiting” for the first six months because the plaque can stabilize on its own. During that time, gentle stretching exercises or a vacuum device may help maintain length and reduce curvature.
If the bend is painful or interferes with sex after three to six months, medication becomes an option. Oral drugs like pentoxifylline have mixed results, while direct injections of collagenase (Xiaflex) break down the scar tissue more reliably. Injections are usually given in a series and can shrink the plaque enough for a noticeable improvement.
When non‑surgical methods don’t work, surgical correction is considered. Procedures range from cutting the plaque (plaque excision) to implanting a penile prosthesis for severe cases. Surgery carries risks like infection or loss of sensation, so it’s reserved for men with stable disease who still can’t have satisfying intercourse.
Aside from medical care, lifestyle tweaks can support recovery. Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing blood sugar help the body heal faster. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants may also reduce inflammation around the scar tissue.
The bottom line: if you notice a new bend or pain, schedule an appointment with a urologist who knows Peyronie's disease. Early diagnosis lets you explore less invasive options and avoid permanent deformity. Remember, many men recover well with proper treatment – you don’t have to live with the condition in silence.