Genital Cosmetic Surgery for Men: Myths & Misconceptions

Surgical exploration began with curiosity about how the human body works and how it is affected by various factors. Today, though, surgery is not only performed out of medical necessity but also for aesthetic purposes.

People seek out plastic surgeons for hundreds of different reasons. Here, we'll discuss five common myths about genital cosmetic surgery for men and look at what the facts actually say.

Myth: Only adult entertainers get genital cosmetic surgery.

Reality: Over the past two decades, genital cosmetic surgery for both men and women has gained popularity, especially in developed countries such as the United States. Several studies have found that for many men, the size and general appearance of their genitals often has an impact on their self-esteem. So it's not surprising that even men who don't publicly show their genitals for work or entertainment may also want to undergo cosmetic surgery.

For a man with a shorter-than-average penis, a hidden penis, retreated testicles or a sagging scrotum, genital cosmetic surgery may be an effective way to boost confidence by addressing their physical insecurity. A man might seek genital cosmetic surgery for health purposes, too, such as getting testicular implants after cancer.

Myth: Male genital cosmetic surgery has only aesthetic benefits.

Reality: While it's true that many men who seek genital cosmetic surgery do so to improve the overall aesthetics of their package, such procedures can also have functional benefits. Correcting an aesthetic issue through genital cosmetic surgery has the potential to make a man less self-conscious in bed and, in turn, improve his sexual confidence and performance.

Myth: Men can choose from many different types of male genital cosmetic surgery.

Reality: Unlike women's many choices for procedures, only a few genital cosmetic procedures are available for men, and the most common ones are related to penis enhancement.

There are two main types of cosmetic surgery for the penis. One is penile elongation surgery, which usually involves making the penis more visible by cutting the ligament that connects the base of the penis to the lower pelvis, so more of the organ is externally visible.

The other main type of surgery is penile girth enhancement, which focuses on adding thickness to the penis. Typically, a doctor will remove fatty tissue from other areas of the body where it is found in excess, such as the abdomen, and inject it under the skin of the penis.

Myth: Since it's just plastic surgery, male genital cosmetic surgery isn't risky.

Reality: As is the case with any surgery—whether it's for medical reasons or aesthetic purposes—there is risk involved for anyone who undergoes male genital cosmetic surgery. This includes the prospect of infection, scarring, reduced penile sensitivity, less rigid erections and more. Any decision to go under the knife is a big one, no matter the reason. Always be sure to carry out your own research and seek trustworthy professional advice before you decide to move forward.

Myth: If I have testicular implants, they will be obvious to others.

Reality: Thanks to advances in medical technology, testicular implants have become more and more realistic. Some men worry that testicular implants will be obvious to any outside observer, but that's not the case. Men who get testicular implants tend to do so after losing one or both testicles to cancer, and while implants are completely optional, many men report that getting them helps restore their pre-cancer self-confidence. While you may notice a slight difference in how malleable the implants are compared to real testicles, they will typically look just like the real thing.

If you're considering genital cosmetic surgery, be sure to do plenty of research and talk to your doctor about what to expect ahead of time.