Adult Hypospadias

Correcting a Childhood Condition, Restoring Confidence in Adulthood

What Is Adult Hypospadias?

Adult hypospadias occurs when the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip. Although hypospadias is usually treated in childhood, many adults continue to experience symptoms because the original repair did not hold up over time, complications developed later, or the condition was never treated at all.

In adults, hypospadias may be caused by:

A childhood repair that did not succeed long-term
History of prior urethral surgery or chronic catheter use
Untreated childhood hypospadias that persists into adulthood

Mild cases may cause cosmetic concerns, but moderate to severe cases can lead to urine spraying, difficulty with urination, curvature, painful erections, sexual dysfunction, or repeated infections and scarring. These challenges often affect confidence, relationships, and quality of life.

At The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, our surgeons specialize in complex urethral and reconstructive techniques that correct both the functional and emotional impact of adult hypospadias. Our goal is to provide lasting improvement, restore normal urinary and sexual function, and help patients regain confidence in adulthood.

Common Symptoms of Adult Hypospadias

Adults with hypospadias may experience:

Urine spraying or difficulty with urinary stream
Curvature of the penis (chordee)
Recurrent fistulas or strictures after childhood surgery
Difficulty with sexual function
Emotional or psychological distress from appearance or complications

Even if you’ve lived with symptoms for years, advanced reconstructive surgery can often restore both function and confidence.

Causes and Risk Factors

Most adult hypospadias cases are:

Congenital (present at birth but untreated)
Surgical complications from incomplete or failed childhood repair
Progressive scarring or damage from prior interventions

Because these cases often involve scar tissue or prior surgeries, they require advanced expertise for durable repair.

Advanced Treatments for Adult Hypospadias

Many adults with hypospadias have already been through multiple surgeries. Our surgeons are nationally recognized for performing complex and redo repairs that succeed where others have not. Treatment options may include:

Primary Hypospadias Repair (for untreated cases)
Surgical correction of the urethral opening and penile alignment to restore normal urinary and sexual function.
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Revision Hypospadias Surgery
Correcting complications from prior childhood repairs, including fistulas, strictures, or persistent curvature.
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Chordee Correction
Straightening the penis to improve both urinary stream and sexual function.

Fistula Repair
This procedure closes abnormal passages that have developed after past failed surgeries.
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Urethroplasty with Graft or Flap
Healthy tissue from nearby areas (such as muscle, skin, or buccal mucosa) is used to rebuild the urethra when there is extensive scarring or damage.
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Which approach is right for you depends on the type of hypospadias, whether you’ve had prior surgeries, and your goals for function and appearance. Our team will guide you toward the option that provides the best long-term outcome.

Are You a Candidate?

You may be a candidate if:

You were never treated for hypospadias as a child.
You had prior childhood repairs but still have complications.
You’re experiencing difficulties with urination, sexual function, or recurrent fistulas/strictures.

Even if you’ve been told your case is “too complex,” our specialists are experienced in treating the most challenging situations. Schedule a consultation to explore your options.

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Meet the Team

Our reconstructive urologists are nationally recognized experts in adult hypospadias repair, including complex revisions and cases with significant scarring. With advanced training in urethral reconstruction, grafting techniques, and precision microsurgery, our team provides individualized care focused on restoring natural function, comfort, and confidence. Patients from across the country trust our specialists to deliver solutions that last when earlier treatments have not.

Physician

Alex Xu

Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Hypospadias

Why wasn’t my childhood repair successful?

Childhood hypospadias repairs sometimes break down over time or were not fully corrected. Scar tissue, growth, or complications can contribute.

Will I need a catheter after surgery?

A temporary catheter is often used during initial healing, with follow-up to ensure the repair is durable.

What is recovery like?

Most patients return home within a few days of surgery and can resume light activities within 2–4 weeks. Full recovery takes longer, but many patients notice significant improvement once the catheter is removed. Our team will guide you through every stage.

Will insurance cover urethroplasty or related procedures?

In most cases, yes. Urethral reconstruction is generally considered medically necessary. Visit our insurance information page for more information, or contact our financial coordinators to confirm your coverage.

Do I need a referral to see a specialist at The Institute?

No referral is required. Patients may request an appointment directly. If another doctor referred you, we will collaborate with your care team to ensure seamless communication.

How do I know if The Institute is the right place for me?

Patients travel to us from across the country and around the world because of our rare expertise in pelvic and urologic nerve surgery. If you’ve been struggling without answers, our team can provide a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.