Premature ejaculation is one of the most common sexual disorders facing many men in the world. It is a dysfunction in which the man is incapable of delaying ejaculation and results in distress, anxiety, and problems in relationships. Even though there is a range of treatments for premature ejaculation, some men may consider surgery to improve sexual performance. This paper highlights different surgical options for premature ejaculation, and the effectiveness, risks, and alternatives are discussed.
Types of Surgery for Premature Ejaculation:
1. Circumcision:
Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin of the penis. This surgery is believed to reduce the sensitivity of the penis and thus, delay ejaculation. However, there is limited evidence to support this claim. In fact, some studies have shown that circumcision may actually increase the risk of premature ejaculation.
2. Dorsal Nerve Transection:
Dorsal nerve transection is a surgical procedure that involves cutting the dorsal nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sensation from the penis to the brain. By cutting this nerve, it is believed that the sensation is reduced, and thus, ejaculation is delayed. However, this surgery is not commonly performed due to the risk of permanent numbness and loss of sensation in the penis.
3. Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy:
Selective dorsal rhizotomy is a type of surgery that involves selectively cutting the nerve fibers responsible for ejaculation. This procedure is usually reserved for men with spinal cord injuries or other neurological disorders. It is not a common treatment for PE and is associated with a high risk of complications, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Effectiveness and Risks of Premature Ejaculation Surgery:
The effectiveness of premature ejaculation surgery varies among individuals. While some men may experience a delay in ejaculation, others may not see any improvement in their condition. Additionally, these surgeries carry a high risk of complications, including infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. There is also a risk of permanent numbness and loss of sensation in the penis, which can affect sexual pleasure and function.
Alternatives to Surgery:
Surgery should only be considered as a last resort for treating premature ejaculation. There are various non-surgical options available that have been proven to be effective in managing PE. These include:
1. Behavioral Therapy:
Behavioral therapy involves techniques such as the stop-start method and the squeeze technique, which aim to help men gain control over their ejaculation. This therapy also focuses on reducing performance anxiety and improving communication with their partner.
2. Medications:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed medications for PE. These medications work by delaying ejaculation and have been found to be effective in improving the symptoms of PE. However, they may also have side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and decreased libido.
3. Topical Anesthetics:
Topical anesthetics, such as lidocaine or prilocaine, can be applied to the penis to reduce sensitivity and thus, delay ejaculation. These creams or sprays should be applied 15-20 minutes before sexual activity and may have some side effects such as reduced pleasure and temporary numbness.
4. Counseling:
Premature ejaculation can also be caused by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and relationship problems. Seeking counseling or therapy can help address these underlying issues and improve sexual performance.
Conclusion:
In other words, premature ejaculation surgery is not very common for treating PE because it is associated with high risks and poor efficacy. There are a variety of non-surgical alternatives that are effective in the management of PE. Surgery should be an option only after consultation with a healthcare professional, whereby all the risks and benefits are weighed. It should be borne in mind that PE is a treatable condition, and consulting a healthcare professional is the first step towards improving sexual satisfaction and quality of life.
