Doctors Break Down Penile Fillers: Results, Risks, and Reality

Episode 14 | Fertility and Other F WordsIn this episode of Fertility and Other F Words, Dr. Amy Pearlman and Dr. Larry Lipshultz sit down with Alex Tatem, MD to discuss one of the most talked-about topics in men’s health right now: penile girth enhancement.Dr. Tatem is a board-certified, fellowship-trained urologist specializing in men’s health, sexual medicine, and male fertility. He earned his medical degree at the Medical College of Georgia, completed his urology residency at Indiana University School of Medicine, and went on to complete fellowship training in Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, where Dr. Lipshultz had the opportunity to work alongside him.He now practices in Indianapolis, helping lead a high-volume men’s health program focused on erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, male infertility, and complex prosthetic surgery. Beyond the clinic and operating room, Dr. Tatem is also a standout educator on social media, known for breaking down nuanced men’s health topics into clear, practical, and highly engaging content for both patients and clinicians.In This Episode, We Discuss:Penile girth enhancement using hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers (off-label use)Non-surgical options for penile enlargement and how they compare to permanent proceduresThe risks and complications of permanent penile girth enhancement treatmentsHow HA fillers work for increasing penile girth and improving appearanceWhat patients should know before considering penile filler proceduresKey Takeaways:Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are a temporary, non-surgical option for penile girth enhancementThese fillers are FDA-approved for facial aesthetics, but are commonly used off-label for penile enhancementProduct selection matters—viscosity, durability, and reversibility (ability to dissolve with hyaluronidase) are criticalInjector technique and post-procedure care are essential for achieving a smooth, natural, and symmetric resultCompared to permanent options, HA fillers offer greater safety, flexibility, and reversibilityResearch Highlights (SMSNA 2025 – PhalloFILL Study)Study overview432 men treated by 28 providers using a standardized protocolFocus on relationship quality, intimacy, and self-confidenceReal-world data collected via anonymous surveyKey findings80% reported improved satisfaction during intimacy75% reported improved partner satisfaction52% reported increased frequency of intimacy81% reported improved self-confidence and overall well-beingBottom lineMost men reported meaningful improvements beyond aesthetics, including confidence and relationshipsA small subset reported no change or worseningReinforces the importance of patient selection, counseling, and setting realistic expectationsTo watch content by Dr. Alex Tatem subscribe to his YouTube channel, @DrAlexTatemNotice: The Fertility and Other F Words webcast and YouTube channel are intended for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute the practice of medicine nor do they provide medical advice or create a doctor–patient relationship. Use of the information provided through this webcast, YouTube channel, or any linked materials is at the listener’s/viewer’s own risk. The content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners/viewers should never disregard or delay seeking medical advice for any health condition and are strongly encouraged to consult their own qualified health care professional with any questions or concerns.All content from the Fertility and Other F Words webcast is th