March 2, 2026

Key Signs of Peyronie’s Disease

Man in pain covering his crotch with his hands

Peyronie’s disease is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue forms in the deeper tissues under the skin of the penis and can cause a curved erection, penile pain, a reduction in erect length or erectile dysfunction (Mayo Clinic, 2024). In some cases, it can also make penetrative sexual intercourse difficult or impossible.

At Uro Westmount, understand these types of changes and offer a clear, evidence-based explanation of what is happening. In our urology clinic in Montreal, we document penile curvature, identify plaques of fibrous scar tissue, and review how these findings affect function. The goal of this article is to describe the main signs of Peyronie’s disease, explain what they mean in practical terms, and outline when a focused urologic assessment may be appropriate.

Important Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease to Look Out For

Penile Curvature and Palpable Plaque

Curvature during erection is one of the established signs of Peyronie’s disease. The curvature occurs as a result of an accumulation of fibrous scar tissue forming a plaque within the tunica albuginea, the innermost layer of the testicular capsule which also covers the erectile tissue of the penis. The plaque restricts tissue expansion and can make the penis bend, or curve, toward the affected area and, in some cases, shorten during erection (NIDDK, 2022). When diagnosing Peyronie’s disease, the main focus is on confirming the presence of plaque and assessing how it affects shape and function during erection.

Changes in Erectile Function

If you have Peyronie’s disease, it can affect erection quality when scar tissue limits how the corpora cavernosa, the penile erectile tissue responsible for penile rigidity during erection, expands. During the acute phase, when inflammation is active, some patients notice painful erections and a change in sexual function.

In selected cases, a health care professional may discuss traction therapy, also called penile traction therapy, as a treatment option to address these mechanical effects. Physical exam findings help define the stage of the condition and guide those decisions.

Shortening of the Erect Penis

A reduction in length during erection, often described as penile shortening, is reported in some individuals with Peyronie’s disease. This change occurs when scar tissue buildup in the tunica albuginea limits how far the tissue can stretch. It may appear with or without a noticeable penile curve and can be more apparent when plaques extend around the shaft and create narrowing or other penile deformities. In some plaques, calcium buildup may even add rigidity. These changes typically reflect scar related structural changes and often remain relatively stable once the disease reaches the chronic phase.

Pain With Erection

Pain during erection is one of the common symptoms in the early course, or acute phase, of Peyronie’s disease. The discomfort usually stays near the area of the fibrous plaque and may be felt as an ache or a sharper, localized sensation. Other symptoms can include a change in firmness or the feeling of flat lumps along the shaft. While the plaque persists, pain often decreases as inflammation settles. Regarding treatment options, in selected cases, interferon injections, other penile injections may be discussed. For more advanced deformity, Peyronie’s disease surgery or a penile implant are both options.

Diagnose Peyronie's Disease At Uro Westmount

At Uro Westmount, our focus is to provide accurate information and thorough evaluation for people experiencing these symptoms. Understanding the presence, location, and nature of the plaque is the first step toward discussing treatment pathways. Those seeking further information about Peyronie’s disease or wishing to arrange a consultation can reach us through our contact page. A structured assessment allows us to explain the condition in detail and outline management approaches supported by current clinical evidence.