When it comes to penile prosthesis surgery, choosing the right surgeon is the most important decision you’ll make. While many men initially look for options close to home, it soon becomes clear that the best care is not always available locally. Surgeon experience, outcomes, and patient satisfaction often outweigh the convenience of proximity. That’s why many men travel hours, or even across state lines, to receive treatment from a specialist they trust.
At EDIN Vitality, we see patients from all over the country who want expert care in a supportive environment. If you’re considering traveling for surgery, here’s everything you need to know: from logistics and costs to recovery and follow-up care.
Why Patients Travel for Penile Prosthesis Surgery
Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men, and while oral medications and injections are first-line treatments, they don’t always provide lasting solutions. For men who need a more permanent option, penile implants can restore confidence, intimacy, and quality of life.
However, not every surgeon has the same level of training or experience with penile prostheses. In fact, research shows that surgeon volume is directly linked to better outcomes: fewer complications, more natural function, and greater long-term satisfaction.
This is why men often decide that traveling is worth it. Instead of settling for “who’s nearby,” they prioritize finding a surgeon who has dedicated their career to ED treatments and who has performed hundreds or even thousands of successful implant surgeries.
Surgeon Experience vs. Local Convenience
It’s natural to want a provider close to home. But when it comes to specialized procedures like penile prosthesis surgery, choosing based on location alone can lead to disappointment. Low-volume surgeons may only perform a handful of cases each year, which increases the risk of:
- Higher complication rates, including infection
- Device malfunction or early failure
- Less predictable or unsatisfactory outcomes
By contrast, high-volume specialists refine their technique through repetition, stay up to date on the latest devices and surgical methods, and understand how to navigate complex cases. That expertise is priceless, and often worth a plane ticket.
Key advantages of choosing a high-volume surgeon include:
- Consistently higher success rates
- Access to the newest implant technology and techniques
- Greater confidence in handling challenging or revision cases
- Better long-term satisfaction and outcomes
At EDIN Vitality, our surgeons are nationally recognized for their high success rates and exceptional patient satisfaction. For many men, the peace of mind that comes with working with a seasoned expert outweighs the hassle of traveling.
Planning the Logistics of Medical Travel
If you’re traveling for surgery, thoughtful planning can make the experience smoother and less stressful. Here’s what to consider:
Travel Arrangements
- Timing: Schedule flights or rides to arrive at least a day before surgery. This allows time to rest, meet with your surgeon, and complete any final pre-operative steps.
- Companions: Please bring a spouse, partner, or a trusted friend. Having someone by your side not only provides emotional support but also offers practical help during the early stages of recovery.
- Comfort: Book direct flights whenever possible, or opt for flexible fares in case your travel plans change.
Lodging
- Location: Stay at a hotel or short-term rental close to the surgical facility. This minimizes travel after the procedure.
- Amenities: Look for accommodations with comfortable beds, easy access to meals, and quiet environments ideal for rest.
- Partnerships: Some practices have preferred hotel partners that offer discounted rates or amenities that are patient-friendly.
Length of Stay
Most men remain near the surgeon’s location for at least 2–3 days after surgery. This allows for an initial follow-up visit, wound check, and confirmation that you’re safe to travel home. Complex cases may require a slightly longer stay; however, your care team will guide you throughout.
The Cost of Traveling for Care
Surgery always comes with financial considerations, and traveling adds another layer. But when handled correctly, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Surgical Costs
- Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans cover penile prosthesis surgery, but coverage varies. Ask your surgeon’s office to verify your benefits.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: If you’re paying cash, request a clear breakdown of surgical, facility, and anesthesia fees.
Travel-Related Costs
- Transportation: Airfare, gas, or rental cars.
- Lodging: Hotel or short-term rental expenses.
- Meals and Incidentals: Budget for dining and small daily costs.
Financing Options
Many practices, including EDIN Vitality, offer financing or payment plans. These allow patients to spread costs out over time, making expert care accessible regardless of budget.
While travel does add expenses, the investment in a high-volume specialist can prevent costly complications or revisions down the line.
Preparing for Surgery Away From Home
Traveling for care requires a little extra preparation:
- Medical Records: Please bring copies of your relevant medical history, lab results, and medication lists.
- Packing: Include loose, comfortable clothing for recovery, and any supplies your surgeon recommends (ice packs, wound care materials, etc.).
- Support System: Ensure your travel companion is aware of what to expect and how to assist you.
A good practice will provide a checklist to ensure that nothing gets overlooked.
Follow-Up Care and Continuity After Surgery
One of the biggest concerns patients have about traveling is follow-up care. The good news is that most patients with penile prosthesis implants only require a small number of in-person visits.
- Immediate Follow-Up: This typically occurs within a few days of surgery to assess incisions and progress.
- Device Activation: For inflatable implants, activation typically occurs around 4–6 weeks post-operatively.
- Long-Term Support: After activation, most issues can be managed virtually through phone calls, video visits, or coordination with local providers if needed.
At EDIN Vitality, we create a personalized follow-up plan for each patient. Whether you’re down the street or across the country, our team ensures you always have access to guidance and support.
Emotional and Relationship Considerations
Traveling for surgery is not just a physical journey; it’s often an emotional one. ED can take a toll on self-esteem, intimacy, and relationships. Choosing to travel for treatment demonstrates a powerful commitment to reclaiming your confidence and quality of life.
Involving your partner in the journey can be especially meaningful. From planning the trip to attending follow-ups, many couples find the process strengthens their relationship and opens conversations about intimacy, expectations, and the future.
Is Traveling Worth It for a Penile Prosthesis?
For most men, the answer is simple: yes. While it may feel easier to stay local, the long-term benefits of working with a high-volume, experienced surgeon far outweigh the temporary inconveniences of travel. Patients who travel often report:
- Greater confidence in their care team
- Fewer complications and faster recovery
- Higher satisfaction with results
- Renewed intimacy and quality of life
When you consider what’s at stake —your health, your confidence, and your relationships —the decision becomes clear.
Why Patients Choose EDIN Vitality
At EDIN Vitality, men from across the United States and abroad trust us with their care. Our reputation is built on three pillars:
- Expertise: Our surgeons perform a high volume of penile prosthesis procedures annually, achieving consistently excellent outcomes.
- Support: We guide patients through every step, from travel planning and financing to recovery and follow-up.
- Compassion: We understand the sensitivity of ED and create a welcoming environment where patients feel respected, supported, and empowered.
Traveling for surgery may feel daunting, but with the right team, the process can be smooth, safe, and ultimately life-changing.
Let EDIN Vitality Connect You to the Best Surgeon
Choosing to undergo penile prosthesis surgery is not just about restoring function; it’s about reclaiming confidence, intimacy, and quality of life. However, the truth is that not every surgeon possesses the same skill, training, or experience. That’s where EDIN Vitality makes all the difference.
EDIN Vitality is a network of the nation’s top surgeons. We don’t just perform procedures; we connect you directly with some of the most experienced penile prosthesis surgeons in the country. These are specialists who have dedicated their careers to treating erectile dysfunction and who perform this surgery at a far higher volume than the national average. The result? Lower complication rates, higher satisfaction, and outcomes that give you back not only your performance, but also your peace of mind.
For many men, traveling a few hours, or even across the country, is a small step compared to the lifelong impact of choosing the right surgeon. And at EDIN Vitality, we make that journey seamless. From helping you navigate logistics and financing to ensuring you have continuous follow-up care, our team is here to support you.
Don’t let distance stand between you and the outcome you deserve. Take the first step toward lasting confidence and restored intimacy by scheduling your consultation with EDIN Vitality today. Patients across the nation trust us to guide them from silence to strength. Now, it’s your turn.
References
¹ Fishbein, M. (1932). Medical Follies: An Analysis of the Profit Motive in Medicine.
² Lane, P. (Director). (2016). NUTS! [Documentary].
³ Trost, L., & Hellstrom, W. J. G. (2013). “Erectile Dysfunction.” The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 10(1), 20–29.
⁴ FDA.gov – Penile Prostheses Overview. https://www.fda.gov
⁵ Wilson, S. K., et al. (2007). “Five-Year Follow-Up of the AMS 700 CX Penile Prosthesis.” The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 4(3), 737–745.
⁶ U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Sexual Enhancement and Energy Product Notifications.”
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/medication-health-fraud-notifications/sexual-enhancement-and-energy-product-notifications
⁷ Huo, S., et al. “Efficacy and Adverse Events of Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Adult Men With Hypogonadism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2018.
⁸ SMSNA. “Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction.”
https://www.smsna.org/patients/sexual-health-articles/shockwave-therapy-for-erectile-dysfunction
⁹ Stahl, P.J. (2020). “Stem cells pose risk, offer promise for ED, other diseases.” Urology Times.
¹⁰ Cleveland Clinic. “Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment.”
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10035-erectile-dysfunction