What Peyronie's disease is
Peyronie's disease is scar tissue (plaque) that forms under the skin of the penis. The scar does not stretch the way normal tissue does, so erections can bend, shorten or narrow. It is more common than many men realize, it is not cancer and it is not contagious. It is a medical condition, and it can be treated.
Common signs
- A new curve or bend with erections
- A firm lump or band you can feel along the shaft
- Pain with erections, especially early on
- Shortening, narrowing or an hourglass shape
- Difficulty with intercourse, or erection problems
Two phases
In the early, active phase, which often lasts several months, the curve may change and erections may be painful. In the stable phase, pain usually settles and the curve stops changing. The phase matters, because some treatments work best at one stage and surgery is usually considered only once the curve has been stable.
Evaluation
A private visit includes a history and a focused exam. Dr. Neal Patel may ask for photos of the curve taken at home, or measure it in the office during an erection brought on by medicine, so treatment can be planned around the real degree and direction of the bend. Erection quality is checked too, because erectile dysfunction often goes along with Peyronie's disease.
Treatment options
- Watchful waiting for mild curves that do not interfere with sex.
- Penile traction therapy, a device worn at home that can help with length and curvature.
- Injections into the plaque, done in the office as a series, for selected men with a stable curve.
- Surgery for a severe or disabling curve once the disease is stable. Depending on the curve and erection quality, this can mean straightening the penis or, for men who also have ED, placing a penile implant.
Dr. Neal Patel reviews which options fit your situation, including their benefits, risks and expected results.
Your next step
Call 678-344-8900 to book a private visit with Dr. Neal Patel in Johns Creek or Cumming. See all men's health services.
Frequently asked questions
Does Peyronie's disease go away on its own? Pain often improves over time, and a small number of men see the curve improve, but for most the curve stays the same or worsens without treatment.
Is Peyronie's disease cancer? No. It is benign scar tissue and does not turn into cancer.
When should I see a urologist about a curved penis? See a urologist if a curve is new, painful, getting worse, or makes sex difficult. Early evaluation helps with planning, even if treatment waits.
Can Peyronie's disease be treated without surgery? Often, yes. Traction therapy and in-office injections help many men, and surgery is usually reserved for severe, stable curves.
Where Dr. Neal Patel sees patients
Dr. Neal Patel sees patients from across metro Atlanta at two Advanced Urology offices:
- Johns Creek: 10730 Medlock Bridge Rd, Ste 110, Johns Creek, GA 30097
- Cumming: 4150 Deputy Bill Cantrell Memorial Rd, Ste 180, Cumming, GA 30040
His Advanced Urology team also sees patients in Decatur and Braselton. Call 678-344-8900 to book. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.
Preparing for your visit with Dr. Neal Patel
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, any prior urine, blood or PSA results, and the reports (or discs) from recent imaging. If you can, arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because a urine sample and a bladder scan are often part of the first visit. Write down your main questions so nothing is missed. A family member is welcome to join you. If you prefer Spanish or Korean, let the office know when you book so language support is ready.
Your chart is reviewed before you arrive, and insurance requirements for likely imaging or procedures are checked up front so approvals can move sooner. Before you leave, your orders, prescriptions and follow-up plan are reviewed with you, and you receive education materials tailored to your condition.
At the end of the visit you will receive a written summary in your preferred language that explains what was found, what was ordered and what happens next. Your primary care physician or referring doctor receives a clear update letter with findings, plan and next steps, so everyone caring for you stays informed. Dr. Neal Patel sees patients at the Johns Creek and Cumming offices; call 678-344-8900.
Reviewed by Dr. Neal Patel, MD, board-certified urologist. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.