One of many Implant Journeys: Countdown to going Bionic
Posted: Fri Dec 09, 2022 12:14 pm
So, a week from today I hope to be Bionic – my implant has (finally) been scheduled for Fri 16th Dec to be performed by Professor Ralph at UCLH in London.
Winding the clock back...
I had a radical prostatectomy back in 2019, apparently nerve-sparing. The operation fortunately got rid of my cancer, caused no incontinence issues, however led to a battle with ED.
I was 51 when I had the radical prostatectomy – I am generally very fit (Ironman triathlete and ultra-runner) plus had an active sex-life with many then Fiancée (now wife). I really thought any ED issues would be short-lived but I expect like many people in the FT community, it has become much more of a problem than I originally thought it would be.
It is not for want of trying - I have been prescribed all the pills, creams, vacuum pump, injections (Caverject and Invicorp) etc.
Not much has really worked, although I have had some success with Invicorp injections (when I can get them). The vacuum pump has been useful but more for physio than anything else. I have been fortunate to obtain Invicorp on the NHS (I am based in the UK) and it has allowed me to have penetrative sex, however after over nearly 2 years of use I have developed Peyronies disease (approx. 30% curvature).
I don't really want to inject myself for the rest of my life plus there is some planning before use - not exactly ideal for being impulsive.
So, I started exploring penile implants and that led to a private consultation with Professor David Ralph in London. He gave me some confidence that I was a good candidate for a penile implant operation, albeit reminding me that I still had the option of continuing with the Invicorp.
We discussed the different penile implant options, the type of surgery, generally all the 'pros and cons' and what is detailed so well on FT.
I was so impressed with Professor Ralph I considered raiding my savings and paying the £12K+ to go private and have the operation as soon as possible.
On reflection I decided to go via the NHS and wait my turn. Fortunately, I have made it under Professor Ralph's care and now after a few false starts have a firm date in the diary (19th Dec) after approx. 10 months on the waiting list.
Anyway, that is my back story - another week to go, partly nervous, partly excited.
As far as I know I am going to be implanted with AMS 700 - I am a 'grower rather than a shower’ but obviously keen on getting the best sizing possible and no further loss of length.
I will report back on my progress and recovery journey. Great to have the support of the FT community.
Onwards and upwards (hopefully!)
Winding the clock back...
I had a radical prostatectomy back in 2019, apparently nerve-sparing. The operation fortunately got rid of my cancer, caused no incontinence issues, however led to a battle with ED.
I was 51 when I had the radical prostatectomy – I am generally very fit (Ironman triathlete and ultra-runner) plus had an active sex-life with many then Fiancée (now wife). I really thought any ED issues would be short-lived but I expect like many people in the FT community, it has become much more of a problem than I originally thought it would be.
It is not for want of trying - I have been prescribed all the pills, creams, vacuum pump, injections (Caverject and Invicorp) etc.
Not much has really worked, although I have had some success with Invicorp injections (when I can get them). The vacuum pump has been useful but more for physio than anything else. I have been fortunate to obtain Invicorp on the NHS (I am based in the UK) and it has allowed me to have penetrative sex, however after over nearly 2 years of use I have developed Peyronies disease (approx. 30% curvature).
I don't really want to inject myself for the rest of my life plus there is some planning before use - not exactly ideal for being impulsive.
So, I started exploring penile implants and that led to a private consultation with Professor David Ralph in London. He gave me some confidence that I was a good candidate for a penile implant operation, albeit reminding me that I still had the option of continuing with the Invicorp.
We discussed the different penile implant options, the type of surgery, generally all the 'pros and cons' and what is detailed so well on FT.
I was so impressed with Professor Ralph I considered raiding my savings and paying the £12K+ to go private and have the operation as soon as possible.
On reflection I decided to go via the NHS and wait my turn. Fortunately, I have made it under Professor Ralph's care and now after a few false starts have a firm date in the diary (19th Dec) after approx. 10 months on the waiting list.
Anyway, that is my back story - another week to go, partly nervous, partly excited.
As far as I know I am going to be implanted with AMS 700 - I am a 'grower rather than a shower’ but obviously keen on getting the best sizing possible and no further loss of length.
I will report back on my progress and recovery journey. Great to have the support of the FT community.
Onwards and upwards (hopefully!)