World's first Penis transplant led to a baby just 6 months Later

A man received a penis transplant — and became a father just six months later.

In 2014, South African surgeons performed the world’s first successful penis transplant on a 21-year-old man who had lost his organ during a traditional circumcision ceremony. 

The nine-hour operation, led by a team from Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, was completed in December 2014.

 Just three months later, the patient had regained urinary and sexual function—and a healthy baby was born six months after the surgery, proving the transplant's full success.

 The case highlights the severe risks associated with ritual circumcisions in South Africa, where dozens of boys are injured or killed each year.

While penis transplants are not life-saving in the conventional sense, the medical team argued their profound psychological impact is undeniable. 

Many men suffer intense stigma and mental distress following genital mutilation, sometimes leading to suicide. 

Dr. Andre Van der Merwe, lead surgeon, emphasized that restoring this physical function can restore a person’s sense of identity and dignity. Using microsurgical techniques inspired by face transplants, the team successfully connected delicate nerves and blood vessels—an achievement that may pave the way for more procedures in regions with high rates of penile injury.

James Gallagher, “South Africans perform first 'successful' penis transplant” BBC News, 13 March 2015.