Short answer: Yes—there is peer-reviewed evidence that penile traction therapy (PTT) can increase penile length in specific contexts (e.g., Peyronie’s disease, post-surgery, and in otherwise healthy men seeking modest length gains). Below you’ll find plain-English summaries of the studies you cited, realistic expectations, and safety guidance so you can judge the claims you see online with a healthy skeptic’s eye.
Key Takeaways (Before You Dive In)
Evidence exists: Multiple peer-reviewed papers report measurable length increases and, in some studies, reduced curvature in Peyronie’s disease.
Modest, gradual gains: Think millimeters to a couple of centimeters over weeks to months—not overnight changes.
Dose matters: Most positive trials required daily wear (often several hours) for many weeks.
First-line in some cases: A urology review recommended traction devices as a first-line option for men seeking lengthening procedures.
Safety first: Incorrect use can cause pain, numbness, or skin injury. Follow a gradual protocol and stop if you feel pain or color changes.
What the Studies Report (Plain-English Summaries)
1) Peyronie’s disease—PTT improves curvature/length (2013)
Source: ScienceDirect article on conservative management of Peyronie’s disease
Link: sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2090598X13000399 Why it matters: For Peyronie’s disease (penile curvature due to fibrosis), traction has been studied as a non-surgical option. The paper discusses traction devices as part of conservative therapy, noting improvements in curvature and length in selected patients when worn consistently.
2) Early clinical reporting—traction increased length (2009)
Summary piece on research presented in 2009
Link: sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090305080516.htm Why it matters: Popular-press coverage of an early clinical study reported meaningful length increases with extender use. Exact percentages vary by cohort and protocol, but the consistent theme is gradual gains with daily wear.
“Results achieved do not seem to be inferior to surgery, making these traction devices an ideal first-line treatment option for patients seeking a penile lengthening procedure.”
Why it matters: In motivated patients, PTT can be tried before considering invasive surgery, acknowledging that surgery carries higher risk and cost.
4) Glans and shaft changes—length and glans size (2010)
Link (abstract): onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01662.x Why it matters: This journal article reported statistically significant increases in penile length and, in the cohort studied, glans size with adherence to a traction protocol.
Study / Source
Population
Protocol (typical)
Reported Outcomes
ScienceDirect 2013 (Peyronie’s overview)
Men with Peyronie’s disease
Daily traction over weeks–months
Improved curvature; length preservation/traction-related length increase in some patients
ScienceDaily 2009 summary
Men using extenders
Multi-hour daily wear, multi-week
Measurable increases in length with adherence
BJU Int. 2010 review (extenders vs surgery)
Men seeking lengthening
Traction first; surgery second-line
PTT recommended as first-line lengthening option
J Sex Med 2010 article
Men adhering to PTT
Structured daily traction
Increased penile length; change in glans size reported
Realistic Expectations & Timelines
Time on device: Many protocols use 2–6 hours per day, gradually titrated up, for 8–24+ weeks.
Magnitude of change: Small, cumulative gains (think millimeters per month). Claims of extreme changes in short periods are not consistent with peer-reviewed data.
Individual variability: Response differs by anatomy, adherence, device fit, and whether the indication is cosmetic, post-surgical, or Peyronie’s disease.
Safety First: How to Use Traction More Safely
This does not replace medical advice. If you have diabetes, vascular disease, Peyronie’s pain, active skin lesions, neuropathy, or you’re on anticoagulants, consult a clinician before starting.
Start low, go slow: Begin with short sessions and modest tension. Increase gradually as tolerated.
Watch your skin and sensation: Stop immediately if you notice numbness, tingling, coldness, color change, or pain.
Don’t exceed recommended tension/time: More is not always better; over-tension risks injury.
Hygiene & fit: Keep the device clean, follow manufacturer fitting guidance, and avoid trapping or pinching skin.
Set expectations: Track measurements monthly, not daily. Patience and consistency matter far more than brute force.
FAQs (Evidence-Based)
Do extenders actually work?
Several peer-reviewed papers report length increases with daily traction and improvements in curvature for Peyronie’s disease. Results are typically modest and require adherence (see studies above).
Are the results permanent?
Studies report durable gains when the protocol is completed, but long-term maintenance data are limited. Some clinicians suggest occasional “maintenance” wear, especially post-surgery or with Peyronie’s disease.
Is traction better than surgery?
Not “better” across the board, but a urologic review concluded that PTT results are not inferior to surgery for lengthening, making it a reasonable first-line option for men seeking length with fewer risks and lower cost.
How long until I notice anything?
Most reports describe weeks before measurable changes. Plan for a multi-month commitment.
What are the main risks?
Irritation, discomfort, numbness, decreased sensation from over-tension or poor fit, and skin injury if misused. Proper fit and gradual progression reduce risk.
Bottom line: If you stay skeptical, read the studies, and follow a cautious, structured protocol, penile traction is a reasonable, evidence-supported non-surgical option for modest length gains and for specific medical indications. If you decide to try a device, speak with a clinician first—especially if you have any underlying health issues.
I am interested in all aspects related to mens's health, in particular sexual health as we age. In my spare time I like to train with weights since that's a great way to boost your testosterone levels and feel overall happy. It is never too late to change your lifestyle into something better. Small positive changes will accumulate over time and bring you happiness in life. You can find my opinions on supplements and devices for men on this website, and also from users such as yourself. Remember to do your research before buying anything.
