Penis enlargement – ​​About the meaning and risks of a surgical procedure

Penis enlargement is a topic that concerns many men worldwide. Whether to better satisfy your partner, for purely aesthetic reasons or to increase self-confidence - the interest in methods for enlarging the penis is enormous. But before you undergo treatment, you should get comprehensive information.

From a man's perspective, I haven't been very interested in the topic so far. To be honest, there was with one's own penis size , especially in younger years. I was not at all alone in this. Now I would like to delve deeper into the topic in this article.

During my research I came across Mr. Felix Jung and his team from UGRS Medical Services Ltd. based in Darmstadt and found answers to many questions on the topic. However, I didn't want to just rely on the representation of a provider for surgical penis enlargement, but rather gain in-depth insights into the motives, expectations, possibilities and risks of penis enlargement.

Stay with me and find out what I found out.

About penis size, images of masculinity and social pressure

Before we get into the different methods, it's important to understand why men doubt their penis sizes in the first place. Social pressure, pornography and personally perceived images of masculinity play a crucial role.

Most men underestimate their own penis length

Scientific studies have shown that most men underestimate their penis length. A report in the British Journal of Urology International shows that 45% of men believe they have a penis that is too small, even though most of them are within the normal range.

The study showed that 54 percent of men attributed their insecurities about their penis size to childhood experiences, while 41 percent derived this concern from adolescence, particularly from consuming adult films and pornography.

Author Rany Shamloul highlighted that many men do not feel equal to others, which can lead to mental health problems such as depression and social withdrawal. Dr. Keith Jarvi noted that men often have a better understanding of their finger lengths than the norm of their own anatomy.

In a study of 92 men in Cairo, almost all of them overestimated the normal length of a flaccid penis and complained about supposedly short limbs. However, the actual normal sizes are significantly below the assumptions; A flaccid penis is considered normal at four centimeters and stretched penises are on average between 14 and 16 centimeters long.

Amazingly, none of the study participants actually had a penis that was shorter than normal.

According to a meta-analysis in BJU International, the average erect penis length is actually only 13.12 cm, with a standard deviation of 1.66 cm. But the psychological component should not be underestimated.

The size does matter

But science has also made it clear: size counts.

A University of Ottawa study showed that women perceive men with larger penises as more attractive. The biologist behind this research, Brian Mautz, researched the evolutionary background of male genitalia and found that the human penis is relatively large compared to other primates - a result of sexual selection.

This insight can be found not only in pop culture, but also in biological studies. Mautz reports another project on fish behavior that showed that females may exhibit genital size preferences even before mating, which could influence the evolution of these traits.

As part of his research, he conducted a study in which he varied three variables of male appearance - body shape, height and penis size - in seven degrees. These 343 combinations were presented in a computer-generated image of a naked man that could be viewed from different perspectives. A group of 105 heterosexual women were then asked which image they found most sexually appealing.

The results revealed that body shape has a greater influence on male attractiveness than penis size. Around 80 percent of the differences in attractiveness scores can be attributed to stature, while penis size and height only contribute six and five percent, respectively.

This research highlights that female preferences exist in sexual selection. As a result, a proportion of women tend to place importance on penis size , even in their subconscious partner selection. This also explains why men have to specify their penis size on some erotic dating portals so that the woman in question can judge whether this man “suits” her individually.

In a video on her YouTube channel, the urologist and sex educator Dr. Rena Malik with the question of whether size actually plays a role or not.

“The vast majority of women really need clitoral stimulation to reach climax, and many women do not experience orgasm through vaginal penetration alone,”

she explains.

Psychological aspects of penis enlargement

In addition to the anatomical reasons, there is a psychological component to the desire for a larger limb that should not be underestimated.

The pursuit of penis enlargement is often deeply rooted in psychological factors. Insecurities and the pursuit of the masculine ideal can create strong psychological pressure.

Sex therapists emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and reflection on the true reasons behind the desire for penis enlargement. Men should ask themselves whether enlargement really improves their quality of life or whether other, less invasive methods (such as increasing self-confidence through relationships or sexual therapy) could be just as effective.

Self-image and self-esteem

One's own body image plays a crucial role in psychological well-being. Men who perceive their penis size as inadequate can often have reduced self-esteem.

This uncertainty can impact various areas of life, including relationships and social interactions. The belief that one is not living up to sexual expectations can lead to significant emotional distress.

Influences of media and culture

The media and popular culture contribute significantly to expectations and insecurities surrounding penis size. Pornography and advertising often present unrealistic standards that can lead to distorted self-perceptions in men.

These external influences can increase the desire to conform to the socially constructed ideal.

Relationship and sex life

Sexual confidence is an important part of healthy, intimate relationships. The fear of not being able to satisfy your partner sexually can have a negative impact on your sexual experience.

Penis enlargement is often seen as a way to increase sexual self-confidence and thus improve relationship experiences.

Body dysmorphic disorder

Extreme and irrational discomfort with one's body size may body dysmorphic disorder . This psychological condition causes those affected to perceive their body as severely deformed or unattractive, even though objectively there are no or only minor deviations.

An experienced psychologist can help diagnose this condition and recommend appropriate therapeutic measures before considering aesthetic or surgical procedures.

Role of psychotherapy

Sex therapy and psychological counseling can provide long-term solutions that go beyond physical changes. Here men can learn to better understand their insecurities and develop strategies to strengthen their self-confidence.

Psychotherapy can particularly help with dealing with the psychological effects of penis enlargement, managing expectations and formulating realistic goals.

Methods of penis enlargement

Now that we have an overview of the different motivations for penis enlargement as well as psychological aspects, let's next look at the methods available to achieve this.

At this point we would like to mention that this is not medical advice. As journalists, we delve into this topic and present researched information from a layperson's perspective in the best possible way.

Before deciding to have a procedure, you MUST consult a medical expert or specialist.

Penis enlargement methods are varied, ranging from non-invasive techniques to surgical procedures. Each method has its own benefits, risks and success rates. Here are the main methods in detail:

1. Surgical procedures

International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), around 3,000 penis lengthening procedures take place in Germany

a. Ligamentolysis (cutting the suspensory ligament) for optical lengthening

This method involves cutting the suspensory ligament (a ligament that connects the penis to the pubic bone). When the penis is lengthened, the shaft usually gains up to 2.5 centimeters in length when not erect.

To do this, the surgeon partially cuts through the retaining ligaments that pull the penis into the abdomen, making the hidden part visible to the outside. To prevent the ligaments from growing together, a dissolvable placeholder is used. The procedure takes around two hours and is mainly carried out under general anesthesia.

Advantages : This method can visually lengthen the flaccid penis.

Risks : Infection, bleeding, and the need for daily stretching after the procedure to prevent retraction. The results when erect are often less significant.

b. Skin and fat grafting (penile thickening)

This involves removing fat or skin from other areas of the body and implanting it into the penis. When the penis thickens, the circumference can increase by up to two centimeters.

The body's own fat, typically taken from the stomach or thighs, or alternative fillers such as silicone or hyaluronic acid are injected under the skin of the penis.

Benefits : This method can increase both the length and girth of the penis.

Risks : Infections, irregular results, scarring, and possible need for revision surgery.

c. Penile prosthesis

A penile prosthesis is an implant that is surgically inserted to increase the length and girth of the penis.

Benefits : Long-lasting results and improved strength.

Risks : Higher risk of complications, including infection and mechanical failure of the implant.

2. Non-surgical methods

a. Hyaluronic acid injections

Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring gel, is injected into the penis to increase girth.

Pros : Minimal invasiveness and quick recovery time.

Risks : Temporary results (usually up to a year), irregular appearance and allergic reactions.

b. Vacuum pumps

These devices create negative pressure that draws blood into the penis and causes it to temporarily swell.

Pros : Immediate, albeit temporary, enlargement. May have certain longer term effects when used continuously in combination with rings.

Risks : Bruising, tissue damage if used excessively and not a permanent solution.

c. Penis stretcher and extender

These devices apply continuous pulling force to the penis, which can result in elongation.

Pros : Non-invasive and potentially lasting results with consistent use for months.

Risks : Inconvenience, skin irritation and the need for long periods of wear per day (several hours).

3. Medicinal and herbal methods

a. Prescription medications

There are no medications approved by medical societies specifically for penis enlargement, but medications can treat sexual dysfunction.

Benefits : Treatment of erectile dysfunction and improved sexual performance.

Risks : Medication side effects such as headaches, stomach upset, and cardiovascular risks.

b. Herbal supplements

Many products claim to increase penis size using natural ingredients.

Pros : Easy accessibility and lower cost.

Risks : Insufficient scientific evidence for effectiveness, potential side effects, and drug interactions.

A few more words about risks and side effects

Every method of penis enlargement carries risks. Surgical procedures can cause complications such as infection, bleeding, or permanent damage to nerves and tissue. A study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine shows that post-surgical complications can affect up to 40% of cases.

Non-surgical methods also have their downsides. Excessive use of vacuum pumps can lead to bruising and tissue damage, while hyaluronic acid injections can lead to irregular results and allergic reactions.

Minimize risks: Why you should definitely rely on experienced experts

Men often fall into the wrong hands, especially through lure offers and misleading advertising on the Internet, or cheap offers from abroad (e.g. Türkiye). In the worst case, the result can be a completely unsuccessful operation that leaves irreversible damage.

Therefore, choosing a trustworthy and, above all, well-trained and experienced expert is essential.

The UGRS Center for Phalloplasty is one such highly specialized medical facility in Germany that focuses on phalloplastic surgeries, including penis enlargement and reconstructive procedures.

The UGRS Center is characterized by its experienced surgeons who provide comprehensive advice and inform patients about options, risks and expectations. This is where Dr. med. Christoph Jethon particularly stands out as the responsible operator. Super-specialized in surgical penis enlargement, his special skills in precise and gentle surgery on the male penis were already noticed at the HARVARD University Medical Partner Hygeia and the Scandinavian Clinic for Plastic Surgery.

He is, among others, a member of the Hesse State Medical Association, the German Society for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (DGPRÄC), the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgers (ISAPS), UGRS-International Medical Group and Interplast Germany eV and has successfully performed over 6,700 penis enlargements. For FOCUS Gesundheit, this was worth a clear recommendation in the “Plastic & Aesthetic Surgeon” category this year.

With state-of-the-art procedures, high-quality medical equipment and a team led by Dr. med. Jörn Ege Siana and Dr. med. Henny Roos' surgical technique for penis enlargement, which was developed specifically for the UGRS, aims to achieve far above-average results.

A special feature is a surgical procedure that allows the penis to be lengthened and thickened when it is erect . Not only is the flaccid penis visually lengthened, but it also adds 3-6 cm more

The penis thickening occurs in aesthetic proportion to the length of the penis; on average, an increase in circumference of 2.8 cm was achieved in UGRS patients.

In addition, the procedure is carried out on an outpatient basis and without general anesthesia (only local anesthesia with twilight sleep), which means the patient can go home on the same day. The scar from this microinvasive procedure is surprisingly short (about 3 cm) and is well hidden.

If you compare these UGRS numbers with the average results of penis enlargement, as recorded by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) , then the UGRS results are well above average.

statement from the UGRS shows how competently we deal with possible risks and side effects :

Holistic patient care also includes careful postoperative aftercare.

How much does penis enlargement cost? Does the health insurance company cover it?

The financial obligations for aesthetic corrections usually have to be borne by yourself, as health insurance companies only cover the costs in exceptional cases, such as serious diagnoses such as severe erectile dysfunction, penile curvature or micropenis.

A surgical extension costs between 7,000 and 9,000 euros. For thickening by injection, prices start at around 2,500 euros, although the effect could only last for a few years.

In most cases, a combination of lengthening and thickening saves on overall costs. Some establishments also offer convenient installment payments.

Important considerations before making a decision

Before you decide on penis enlargement, you should consider several factors:

1. Realistic Expectations : Understand that many methods can only produce moderate change.

2. Cost : Treatments can be expensive and are rarely covered by health insurance.

3. Recovery time : Surgical procedures in particular require significant recovery time and follow-up care.

4. Long-term risks and complications : Consider possible long-term consequences and discuss risks with your doctor thoroughly.

The decision-making process

Choosing to undergo penis enlargement is a deeply personal decision that should not be taken lightly. Many experts recommend comprehensive consultation and evaluation by a qualified urologist or plastic surgeon.

These specialists can help you find the best method for your individual needs and ensure you are clearly informed of the risks and benefits.

Final Thoughts

Penis enlargement remains a complex topic with many facets. While some men can experience positive results from certain procedures, there are risks associated with any procedure. It is crucial to keep your expectations realistic and be fully informed before taking such a step.

Communicating with medical specialists and possibly sex therapists can help you make the best decision for your physical and mental health.