Complications of glans penis augmentation

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Plastic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Glans penis augmentation (GPA) is a reconstructive surgery for selected patients with small glans penis.
• Injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) gel has been used for GPA since 2003.
• Irreversible fillers and indirect augmentation with grafts/scaffolds are alternatives to HA gel, addressing longevity and surface undulation issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the current status of glans penis augmentation (GPA).
• To discuss the limitations and complications associated with different GPA techniques.
• To analyze referred complicated cases for a deeper understanding of GPA challenges.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on injectable fillers (hyaluronic acid, irreversible fillers) and indirect augmentation methods (dermofat grafts, scaffolds).
• Analysis of complications associated with GPA, including lump formation, pain, and vascular compromise.
• Case study review of referred complicated GPA cases.

Main Results:

• Hyaluronic acid (HA) gel fillers are commonly used but have limitations such as poor longevity and surface undulation.
• Irreversible fillers aim to improve HA gel longevity.
• Indirect augmentation methods can lead to hard, painful lumps and are difficult to remove; blunt dissection carries risks of vascular compromise and glans necrosis.

Conclusions:

• Glans penis augmentation (GPA) techniques, including HA gel fillers and indirect augmentation, have significant limitations and potential complications.
• The review highlights the need for improved, safer, and more effective methods for GPA.
• Understanding these challenges is crucial for managing patients undergoing or considering GPA.