Episode 14 | Fertility and Other F Words

In 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 procedures
• The risks and complications of permanent penile girth enhancement treatments
• How HA fillers work for increasing penile girth and improving appearance
• What patients should know before considering penile filler procedures

Key Takeaways:

• Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are a temporary, non-surgical option for penile girth enhancement
• These fillers are FDA-approved for facial aesthetics, but are commonly used off-label for penile enhancement
• Product selection matters—viscosity, durability, and reversibility (ability to dissolve with hyaluronidase) are critical
• Injector technique and post-procedure care are essential for achieving a smooth, natural, and symmetric result
• Compared to permanent options, HA fillers offer greater safety, flexibility, and reversibility

Research Highlights (SMSNA 2025 – PhalloFILL Study)

Study overview

• 432 men treated by 28 providers using a standardized protocol
• Focus on relationship quality, intimacy, and self-confidence
• Real-world data collected via anonymous survey

Key findings

• 80% reported improved satisfaction during intimacy
• 75% reported improved partner satisfaction
• 52% reported increased frequency of intimacy
• 81% reported improved self-confidence and overall well-being

Bottom line

• Most men reported meaningful improvements beyond aesthetics, including confidence and relationships
• A small subset reported no change or worsening
• Reinforces the importance of patient selection, counseling, and setting realistic expectations

To watch content by Dr. Alex Tatem subscribe to his YouTube channel, @DrAlexTatem

Notice:

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.

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