Genital Reconstruction & Revision
A curve present since birth, without Peyronie's plaque: how it's evaluated and when plication makes sense.
Written and reviewed by Shervin Badkhshan, MD · Last reviewed
November 2026
Part of:
Peyronie's and genital reconstruction
Outpatient
Recovery: 4–6 weeks
Fellowship-Trained Reconstructive Urology
AT A GLANCE
From symptoms to treatment
1. SYMPTOMS
• A curve that has always been there • No pain or lump • Difficulty with sex in some men
2. TESTING
• Exam • Photos or in-office measurement • Check of the urethral opening
Test result guides →
Congenital chordee is a curve of the penis that has been present since birth, without the scar plaque seen in Peyronie's disease. It's usually noticed in the teens or twenties once erections are fully developed.
What you might notice
A downward, sideways, or upward bend with erections that has always been there, without pain or a lump. Some men find it makes sex difficult or uncomfortable for them or their partner.
How I evaluate it
An exam and a review of photos or an in-office measurement of the curve during an erection. I also check that the urethral opening is in the normal position, because chordee can come with a mild form of hypospadias.
Treatment
If the curve doesn't bother you or get in the way, nothing needs to be done. If it does, plication straightens the penis with stitches on the longer side, as an outpatient surgery, without cutting into the erectile tissue.
Related
Need an Expert Evaluation?
See Dr. Badkhshan in person in Garden City or by video visit.
Book a Consultation
Your results and questions
Your actual test results, visit notes, and messages with your care team are in your patient portal, the same one you use to book visits. Send questions through the portal or call the office at (516) 535-1900. For anything urgent, call the office or go to the nearest emergency room.