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