Why does the penis shrink, bend, and lose firmness over time

Part of the explanation lies in the accumulation of fat in the pubic area, which ‘hides’ part of the base. But there are also internal changes. ‘There is a loss of elasticity and fibrosis in the tissues, which makes the penis appear smaller,’ explains Felipe Pinho, a urologist at Mater Dei Salvador Hospital and director of teaching and research at IBCR (Brazilian Institute of Robotic Surgery). Decreased testosterone levels can also lead to a decrease in nocturnal erections, which may impact the size and diameter of the genital organ. Arie Carneiro, a urologist at Einstein Hospital Israelita, adds another factor: the reduction, with advancing age, of the muscular structure that exists in part of the penis. ‘The lack of nocturnal erections, a reduction in the frequency of sexual intercourse or masturbation, and erectile dysfunction are the main causes of penile muscle loss,’ he says.