Curvature of the Penis (Peyronie's Disease)

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and will examine your penis, looking for tender, firm areas of scar tissue (plaques) during a physical examination. Usually, this is all that is needed to diagnose the problem. If your doctor needs more information, he or she may order an X-ray to look for calcium deposits in scar tissue, or ask you to bring in photographs of your erect penis to better determine the extent of the damage. In addition, men who are considering surgery may be asked to undergo special testing of sexual function to determine the best method of repairing the problem.

Expected Duration

A curve in the penis that is present since birth or is caused by scarring from an injury will not go away unless it is corrected with surgery.

How long Peyronie's disease lasts is difficult to predict. In more than a third of men, there is gradual improvement over 12 to 18 months without any specific treatment. In others, the scarring is permanent or worsens over time.