Does Obesity Affect Penis Size? the Impact of Body Fat - Urology

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Obesity and Penis Size


I would like to ask if the penis can appear smaller due to obesity because of the accumulation of fat in the lower abdomen.
So, the perceived shrinkage is not actually a real reduction in size, but rather it is being obscured? For example, in the ninth grade, my erect length was around 11-12 cm, even reaching 13 cm at times.
However, by the second year of high school, it decreased to 10-11 cm, and now in my third year of college, it measures only 8-9 cm.
During this time, I gained about 30-40 kg, while my height only increased by about 10 cm (170 cm, 93 kg).
Is this the reason for the perceived shrinkage? If I lose weight and reach a standard weight, will the length of my penis return to what it was before?

Dà sān shēng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/16

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Third-year student: Hello, the buried penis may be caused by obesity.
Weight loss can certainly help restore it.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/09/16

More Info


Obesity can indeed have an impact on perceived penis size, primarily due to the accumulation of fat in the abdominal area. This phenomenon is often referred to as "buried penis," where excess fat around the pubic region can obscure the base of the penis, making it appear shorter than it actually is. When a person gains weight, particularly in the abdominal area, the fat can create a layer that effectively "hides" part of the penis, leading to the perception of a decrease in size.

In your case, you mentioned that your weight has increased significantly over the years, which correlates with the changes you've observed in your penis size measurements. It's important to note that the actual length of the penis does not decrease; rather, it may seem shorter due to the surrounding fat. When you lose weight, especially from the abdominal region, you may find that more of the penis becomes visible, which can give the impression of an increase in size.

The average erect penis size varies widely among individuals, and factors such as genetics, hormonal levels, and overall health can influence size. However, the perception of size can be affected by body composition. Studies have shown that men with higher body fat percentages may report feeling less satisfied with their penis size, which can be linked to body image issues and self-esteem.

If you are considering weight loss and fitness as a means to improve your overall health and potentially enhance the appearance of your penis, it is a positive step. Achieving a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can not only improve your body image but also have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

To calculate a healthy weight range, you can use the Body Mass Index (BMI) formula, which is weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is generally considered healthy. However, it is essential to remember that BMI does not account for muscle mass, bone density, and fat distribution, so it should be used as a general guideline rather than a definitive measure of health.

In conclusion, while obesity can affect the perceived size of the penis due to fat accumulation in the abdominal area, losing weight can help reveal more of the penis and improve overall health. If you are serious about losing weight, consider consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized advice and support tailored to your needs. Additionally, incorporating strength training and cardiovascular exercises into your routine can enhance fat loss and improve your body composition, leading to better health outcomes and potentially a more favorable perception of your body.

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