Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease occurs when fibrous scar tissue, known as plaque, forms within the penis. This buildup can alter the shape and function of the penis, leading to a range of symptoms, including:

  • Curvature during erections
  • Difficulty with sexual activity
  • Painful erections
  • Shortening of the penis
  • Narrowing or indentation along the shaft

In addition to physical symptoms, many men experience emotional stress or anxiety related to these changes. Without treatment, Peyronie’s disease may continue to impact sexual function and overall quality of life. A urology specialist can evaluate the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include observation, medication or injections, or surgical correction depending on severity.

Questions and Answers

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 some men recall a specific injury during sexual activity that may have contributed to the condition, many do not identify a single event. In these cases, repeated minor trauma or normal wear over time may play a role in the development of scar tissue.

Certain health conditions may increase the risk, including erectile dysfunction, Dupuytren’s contracture, and diabetes. However, Peyronie’s disease can occur in otherwise healthy men at any stage of adulthood. It is a relatively common condition, and a range of safe, effective treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve function.

Am I At Risk for Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease is most commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 55. The risk may also be higher for individuals with a family history of the condition or those with a personal history of connective tissue disorders.

While age and genetics can increase risk, Peyronie’s disease can still occur in younger men and those without known risk factors. Because symptoms can develop gradually, early evaluation is important to identify changes, monitor progression, and determine the most appropriate treatment options.

How Do You Diagnose Peyronie’s Disease?

A diagnosis of Peyronie’s disease is often made based on a physical examination, as the condition typically presents with noticeable changes. In many cases, a urologist can identify the characteristic plaque and curvature during an in-office evaluation.

Additional imaging or testing is not always necessary but may be recommended in certain situations, particularly if there is concern about other underlying conditions or to better assess the extent of the plaque. Many men first notice a firm area or lump along the shaft of the penis, along with a new curvature during erections. A thorough evaluation helps confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment options.

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

Treatment for Peyronie’s disease is based on the severity of symptoms and the impact on daily life and sexual function. Common treatment options include:

Observation:
If curvature is mild and sexual function is not significantly affected, your urologist may recommend monitoring the condition. If symptoms progress or begin to interfere with intercourse, additional treatment may be considered.

Injections:
Xiaflex® is an FDA-approved medication injected directly into the plaque. When combined with guided stretching exercises, it can help break down scar tissue and reduce curvature. Treatment typically involves a series of cycles spaced several weeks apart.

Surgery:
For more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be recommended. Options such as penile implants can help straighten the penis and restore function. These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis.

If you are experiencing pain, curvature, or difficulty with sexual function, a urology evaluation can help determine the most effective treatment approach for your condition.

What is XiaFlex®?

Peyronie’s disease occurs when scar tissue (collagen) forms within the penis, leading to curvature during erections. Xiaflex® is an injectable medication composed of enzymes that specifically target and break down this scar tissue.

During treatment, a urologist delivers a series of Xiaflex® injections directly into the plaque. This is combined with guided modeling techniques to help gently straighten the penis over time. As the scar tissue is broken down, many patients experience improvement in both curvature and function.

Xiaflex® offers a nonsurgical treatment option for appropriate candidates and has been shown to be effective for many men, typically with minimal downtime and recovery.

Is XiaFlex® Right for Me?

Xiaflex® may be recommended for men who meet specific criteria, including:

  • The presence of a Peyronie’s plaque, or a palpable area of scar tissue beneath the skin of the penis
  • Penile curvature of at least 30 degrees during erection

Your urologist will evaluate your symptoms and perform a thorough examination to determine if Xiaflex® is an appropriate option for your condition. During your consultation, you can also review alternative treatment options to ensure the approach aligns with your goals and overall health.

What Can I Expect from XiaFlex®?

Xiaflex® treatment is performed in the office and typically begins with the application of a numbing agent to the area where the Peyronie’s plaque is located. Once the area is adequately numbed, the medication is carefully injected directly into the scar tissue to begin breaking down the plaque.

Following the injection, your urologist may perform gentle modeling techniques to help stretch and reshape the affected tissue, improving curvature. You will also be given specific instructions for at-home stretching exercises, which play an important role in supporting treatment and optimizing results over time.

XiaFlex® Results and Recovery

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

Throughout the treatment process, patients are instructed to perform specific straightening exercises at home as directed by their urologist. Adhering to these instructions is important for achieving optimal results. While Xiaflex® treatment generally involves minimal downtime, patients are usually advised to avoid sexual activity between treatment cycles. This nonsurgical approach has helped many men reduce curvature and improve overall symptoms associated with Peyronie’s disease.