01
Three typical causes
- A degree of curvature left uncorrected at the first operation.
- Contraction of scar tissue that forms during healing.
- A length mismatch between the underside and top side becoming more apparent with growth.
Hypospadias Surgery • After Surgery
This page is part of hypospadias surgery.Read the full treatment overview on the hub page
Recurrent Penile Curvature
Curvature reappearing after surgery can be seen especially as the child grows. The cause is often not that the first operation fell short, but that a previously hidden mismatch becomes apparent as the penis grows.
Who this is forPatients whose curvature has returned
Reading≈1 minByProf. Dr. Ali AvanoğluUpdated
In brief3 madde
- Three typical causes: A degree of curvature left uncorrected at the first operation.
- Evaluation: A photograph taken from the side during an erection — the single most valuable piece of information at examination.
- Correction: When only the curvature is present, a single operation is usually enough.
02
Evaluation
- A photograph taken from the side during an erection — the single most valuable piece of information at examination.
- Measuring the angle during a medication-induced erection, if needed.
- A definitive measurement with an artificial erection test during surgery.
- The channel is also assessed, since curvature can be accompanied by a stricture.
03
Correction
When only the curvature is present, a single operation is usually enough. If the channel is also affected and the tissue is inadequate, a staged plan comes into consideration. The choice of method depends on the angle and on how acceptable a degree of length loss is.
- In corrections performed before puberty is complete, some recurrence of curvature with further growth is possible; timing is therefore discussed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Should we wait until puberty is over?
If the curvature isn't interfering with function, waiting can be reasonable — correction performed once growth is complete tends to be more lasting. The decision is based on how much the curvature affects daily life.
Related pagesFull index →
Surgical TechniquesPenile Curvature Correction MethodsThere are two main ways to correct penile curvature, and the choice is based on the measured angle and the patient's priorities: shortening the top surface (plication) or lengthening the underside (a graft).BasicsHypospadias and Penile Curvature (Chordee)Curvature is the second key determinant in hypospadias, after the position of the opening. Repairing the channel without first correcting the curvature only builds it on a penis that stays bent — that's why the order is always: curvature first, channel second.Follow-up and AssessmentReassessment During AdolescenceThe real result of a repair done in childhood only becomes clear during adolescence. The penis grows, tissues change, and details that were not noticeable at a young age become apparent during this period.Hypospadias in AdultsHypospadias + Penile Curvature in AdultsIn adults, curvature is not only a matter of appearance: past 30 degrees it can make intercourse difficult and cause pain. The degree of curvature determines whether correction is needed before the channel repair.
Hypospadias Surgery topic clustersMain treatment page →
Contact us
With the hypospadias assessment that fits your situation would you like to reach the doctor?
There are two ways. If you'd like the doctor to already know your situation before replying, start with the short assessment; if your question is brief, write to us directly. Both reach the same team.
1
Let me assess my situation firstRecommended
The Roadmap asks a few questions in about 2 minutes, collects your answers with an anatomical diagram, and produces a ready-made summary. That summary is added to your WhatsApp message — the doctor replies already knowing your situation.
Start the Roadmap
2
I'll write directly
Fill in the form; your message opens ready-made in WhatsApp (you can edit it before sending), or you can send it directly by email. This page's topic is added to the message automatically.
Editor's note: Age and a short sentence are enough; you don't need to use medical terms. Please don't send photos — the doctor will request them through a secure channel if needed. What you write is only sent when you submit it; this page does not store anything.
