Erectile dysfunction: What causes a lopsided erection?

What might cause an uneven or lopsided erection? The back part of the penis enlarges, but the front part remains small.

- Kay / Kentucky

Answer

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Erect penis

Minor abnormalities of the penis during erection are common. They usually aren't serious and don't require evaluation or treatment. However, an abnormality severe enough to interfere with sexual activity (erectile dysfunction) should be evaluated by a urologist.

The penis contains two spongy, cylinder-shaped structures. When a male becomes sexually aroused, nerve impulses increase blood flow into both cylinders. This influx of blood causes an erection by expanding, straightening and stiffening the penis. Rarely, an erection of unequal fullness as you describe can occur if the cylinders don't fill and expand properly.

The most common cause of curved erect penis is Peyronie's disease. This condition results from scarring of the lining of the cylinders. Other less common causes of a crooked or lopsided erect penis include congenital abnormalities of the cylinders or scarring of the cylinders from trauma, surgery or radiation.

Regardless of the cause of such an abnormality, treatment is available. Discuss your concerns with your doctor or urologist.

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