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Peyronie's Disease and Xiaflex Treatment

A patient-focused guide to penile curvature, plaque formation, and non-surgical treatment with Xiaflex for appropriate men.

What Peyronie's Disease Is

Peyronie's disease is a condition in which scar tissue, called a plaque, develops inside the penis and causes curvature, pain, shortening, or difficulty with intercourse. It can also lead to emotional distress and frustration because the change often happens suddenly and feels very personal.

The condition is common enough that many men experience it, but not every man seeks treatment. The good news is that Peyronie's disease can often be evaluated and treated, especially when you see a urologist who manages this condition regularly.

What Xiaflex Does

Xiaflex is an injectable treatment made from collagenase clostridium histolyticum. It is designed to break down the collagen within the Peyronie's plaque and help reduce penile curvature in appropriate patients.

Xiaflex is a non-surgical treatment option for men with Peyronie's disease who meet the proper criteria. It is not a quick fix, but for the right patient it can be an important part of treatment.

How Xiaflex Treatment Works

Each treatment cycle involves several office visits over a few days. Typically, the first Xiaflex injection is given in the office, followed by a second injection 1 to 3 days later, and then in-office modeling or straightening by the urology team shortly after that.

After each cycle, patients are instructed to perform daily at-home stretching and straightening exercises, often for about 6 weeks. Depending on response, treatment can involve up to four cycles.

Why Modeling Matters

Xiaflex works best when it is paired with penile modeling, meaning gentle stretching and straightening of the penis after treatment. This helps guide the healing process and may improve the final result.

At-home exercises are an important part of treatment and should be done exactly as instructed by your care team. Skipping this part can reduce the benefit of therapy.

What Improvement to Expect

The goal of Xiaflex is to improve penile curvature and reduce the functional impact of Peyronie's disease. Studies and patient materials show that many men experience meaningful improvement, especially when treatment is done carefully and combined with daily modeling.

Results vary from patient to patient. Some men improve enough to have easier intercourse and less bother, while others may still need additional treatment options.

Safety and Side Effects

Xiaflex is only available through a restricted program because of the risk of serious penile injury, including corporal rupture. The medication should only be given by a trained urology specialist who is familiar with the protocol.

Common side effects include bruising, swelling, pain, and temporary tenderness. Patients should also be aware of rarer but more serious reactions, including sudden pain, fainting, chest symptoms, or back pain reactions.

Who Should See a Specialist

You should see a urologist if you have penile curvature, pain with erections, trouble having intercourse, or a lump or plaque in the penis. An evaluation can help determine whether you are in the right phase of Peyronie's disease for Xiaflex or another treatment approach.

Some men may be better served by traction therapy, medications, or surgery depending on the degree of curvature, the stability of the condition, and erectile function.

Frequently Asked Questions