Q:
I was surfing on the internet yesterday and found that there are a lot of
sites about how to enlarge the penis. Those methods are healthy?
A: There are a number
of websites devoted to penis enlargement. Whether or not these “techniques”
actually work is debatable. In general, there are four basic categories
of penis enlargement strategies:
1) Manual stretching techniques - Also referred
to as jelqing, these exercises involve applying a “milking” (stretching
and squeezing) action along the length of the penis from base to tip for
long periods of time every day on a regular basis. The theory is
that continually stretching and expanding the penis and forcing blood
along its internal chambers will induce tissues to grow and permit a bigger
erection. To date, there is no scientific proof that these techniques
are effective in lengthening penis size. And, if the penis is handled
too roughly, there is risk of damaging internal tissues which may lead
to scar formations, pain and disfigurement. Nevertheless, this is
certainly the safest of all the methods.
2) Stretching with penile weights and mechanical
devices - This strategy involves fastening a weighted device to the penis
or attaching a framework device that puts the penis under tension and
stretches it lengthwise. Once again, there is no scientific proof
that these devices are effective in lengthening penis size. Also,
they pose a greater risk of injury because the individual has less control
over how the penis is handled.
3) Pumps - This strategy involves inserting the
penis into a cylinder that is fitted around the base. Air is then
extracted from the cylinder with a mechanical or electric vacuum pump
forcing the penis to swell. The theory is that increasing blood
flow to the penis will result in increased penis size. Although
the penis will expand temporarily, there is no scientific proof that this
increase is permanent. Additionally there is risk of injury with
this method. Excessive vacuum pressure can lead to hemorrhaging
of and damage to the penis.
4) Surgery - Surgical procedures can be done
to increase penile length and girth. It’s important to note, however,
that penile augmentation surgery is still new. Many controversial
issues remain unresolved such as unpredictable outcomes and potentially
disastrous consequences that may result from even minor complications.
A recent study revealed that 68% of patients who underwent these operations
were dissatisfied with the results and 50% said they would not have the
surgery given the chance to decide again.
So, in answer to your question “is it healthy?”
-- the healthiest strategy is to learn to accept and enjoy the penis that
nature gave you.
References: Penis Size Page,
www.penis-size-page.com; Klein, R. (1999). Penile Augmentation
Surgery. Electronic Journal of Human Sexuality. www.ejhs.org