Peyronie’s disease is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue, called plaque, develops inside the penis, causing it to bend or curve during erection. It affects an estimated 1 in 10 men, though many cases go undiagnosed due to embarrassment or lack of awareness.
The plaque typically forms on the upper side of the penis but can occur on the bottom or sides as well. As the plaque builds, it pulls on surrounding tissue and creates a curve that can range from mild to severe. In some cases, the curvature is significant enough to prevent sexual intercourse entirely.
Peyronie’s disease is not caused by cancer and does not increase cancer risk. However, it can cause considerable physical discomfort, erectile dysfunction, penile shortening, and psychological distress including anxiety and depression.
At INTIMÉ Miami, Dr. Robbins provides comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment plans for all stages of Peyronie’s disease.
Peyronie’s disease progresses through two phases: an acute (inflammatory) phase lasting 6–18 months, and a chronic (stable) phase where the plaque has matured and the curvature no longer changes.
The exact cause is not fully understood, but research points to a combination of trauma, genetics, and connective tissue abnormalities.
Repeated micro-trauma during sexual activity, sports, or accidents is the most commonly cited trigger. Injury to the tunica albuginea initiates an abnormal healing response that produces excess scar tissue.
Men with a family history of Peyronie’s or related connective tissue disorders such as Dupuytren’s contracture are at significantly higher risk. There appears to be a hereditary component to the abnormal scarring response.
Most commonly diagnosed in men ages 40–70. Diabetes, high blood pressure, tobacco use, and prior pelvic or prostate surgery are associated with increased risk. Low testosterone may also play a contributing role.
Dr. Robbins tailors treatment to the phase and severity of your condition, from non-invasive therapies to surgical correction.
Low-intensity shockwave therapy delivers focused acoustic waves to the plaque, helping reduce pain and may help remodel scar tissue. Non-invasive with no downtime. Most effective during the acute phase.
Learn More →The only FDA-approved injectable treatment for Peyronie’s disease. Xiaflex breaks down the collagen in the plaque through a series of injections combined with penile modeling exercises. Indicated for men with curvature of 30 degrees or more.
Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy uses concentrated growth factors from your own blood to promote tissue healing and may help reduce plaque formation during the active phase.
Learn More →Pentoxifylline and other oral agents may help slow plaque progression during the acute phase. Valuable as part of a combination approach, particularly for pain management.
For stable, severe curvature that interferes with intercourse. Options include penile plication, plaque incision with grafting, and penile prosthesis for concurrent severe ED. Dr. Robbins will discuss each approach based on your anatomy and goals.
Many patients benefit from a multimodal approach combining shockwave therapy, PRP, oral medications, and traction devices. Dr. Robbins develops personalized protocols based on disease phase, curvature degree, and treatment goals.
Early intervention during the acute phase typically produces better outcomes. Schedule a consultation if you notice any of the following:
Board-certified urologist Dr. David Robbins brings over 20 years of specialized experience in sexual medicine and penile disorders. As a urological surgeon, he is uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat all stages of Peyronie’s disease — from early medical management to complex surgical reconstruction.
Dr. Robbins trained at NYU School of Medicine and completed his urological residency at NYU Langone. He is board-certified by the American Board of Urology and is a member of the American Urological Association, the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, and the International Society for Sexual Medicine.
Every patient receives a thorough evaluation including physical examination, assessment of curvature degree and plaque characteristics, erectile function testing, and a candid discussion of all available treatment options.
Peyronie’s disease is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue called plaque forms inside the penis, causing it to bend or curve during erection. It affects an estimated 1 in 10 men, though many cases go unreported.
It is believed to result from repeated micro-trauma to the penis during sexual activity or injury. Genetic predisposition, connective tissue disorders, age, diabetes, and prior pelvic surgery are known risk factors.
In a small percentage of cases, mild Peyronie’s may resolve without treatment. However, most cases stabilize or worsen. Early intervention during the acute phase typically produces better outcomes.
Options include oral medications, Xiaflex injections (the only FDA-approved injection for Peyronie’s), shockwave therapy, PRP therapy, and surgical correction. Dr. Robbins will recommend an individualized plan based on phase and severity.
No. Many men have a natural slight curvature that is entirely normal. Peyronie’s is characterized by new or worsening curvature caused by scar tissue, often with pain or erectile difficulty. If your curvature has changed, see a urologist.
Consult a urologist if you notice a new curve, feel a hard lump under the skin, experience pain during erections, notice shortening, or have difficulty with intercourse due to curvature. Early evaluation allows more treatment options.
Many insurance plans cover evaluation and treatment of Peyronie’s disease as it is a recognized medical condition. Coverage for specific treatments varies by plan. Our office can help verify your coverage.