Ligament release surgery explained - Moorgate Andrology

Ligament Release Surgery Explained

Ligament release surgery, also known as suspensory ligament release, is a surgical procedure intended to increase the amount of penile shaft visible outside the body, particularly when the penis is flaccid.

It may be considered by men seeking an improvement in visible penile length. However, the procedure does not increase the actual length of the erectile tissue, and any change in appearance varies between individuals.

How It Works

• The suspensory ligament helps attach and support the penis in relation to the pubic bone.
• During surgery, the ligament is partially or fully released, depending on the surgical approach.
• Releasing the ligament may allow more of the penile shaft to hang externally, making the flaccid penis appear longer.
• The effect on erect length is variable and may be limited. An increase in visible flaccid length does not necessarily translate into an equivalent increase in erect length.

The procedure requires careful assessment because releasing the suspensory ligament can affect penile support and erection angle.

Myths vs Facts

• Myth: Ligament release dramatically increases erect length.
  Fact: The main intended benefit is increased visible flaccid length. Any change in erect length is variable and may be limited.
• Myth: Ligament release has no effect on penile support.
  Fact: The suspensory ligament contributes to penile support and erection angle. Releasing it can affect support or the angle of erection, and these risks should be discussed before surgery.
• Myth: Ligament release is completely safe when performed by a qualified urologist.
  Fact: Having an appropriately qualified and experienced surgeon is important, but no operation is risk-free. Potential complications include scarring, changes in sensation, wound problems, dissatisfaction with the result and changes in erection angle or support.

Combining Procedures

Some men may consider combining ligament release surgery with penile girth enhancement, such as hyaluronic acid fillers.

These procedures address different aspects of penile appearance:

• Ligament release surgery aims to increase visible penile length, particularly when flaccid.
• Penile fillers are a non-surgical option for increasing girth.

Combining treatments is not appropriate for everyone. The potential benefits, limitations, risks and timing of each procedure should be assessed individually by your urologist. A combined approach does not guarantee a better overall result.

Recovery

Recovery following ligament release surgery varies between patients. Temporary swelling, bruising and discomfort around the surgical area are common during the initial healing period.

• Follow your surgeon's individual wound-care and activity instructions.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and activities that place tension on the surgical area until advised otherwise.
• Do not resume sexual activity or masturbation until your surgeon confirms that healing is sufficient.
• Attend recommended follow-up appointments so that healing, penile support and the outcome can be assessed.

Some patients may be advised to use a penile traction device following surgery, but this should only be started when recommended by their surgeon.

Your surgeon will explain the expected recovery period and when you can gradually return to normal activities. Recovery and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Next Steps

If you are considering ligament release surgery, a consultation with a specialist urologist can help establish whether the procedure is suitable for you.

During your consultation, you can discuss:

• Your reasons for considering surgery and the results you hope to achieve.
• Your individual anatomy and clinical suitability.
• The potential benefits and limitations of ligament release.
• Possible complications, including changes to penile support and erection angle.
• Recovery, aftercare and realistic expectations.

You can also explore our penis enlargement surgery options and penis filler treatments.

About Moorgate Andrology

Moorgate Andrology is a UK-based specialist clinic providing penis enlargement surgery, penile filler treatment, and peyronies disease management.

Treatments are delivered using a medically-led approach focused on safety, precision, and natural-looking outcomes