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Q:	I recently read an article here about a guy who was concerned about his penis being too big. The answer stated that this was determined by the person’s genes. I understand that genes can sometimes cause a person to have a penis that is larger than "normal," but I am worried I may have some sort of growth abnormality similar to that of the Elephant Man. I am 19 and my penis is about 8 1/2 inches around and slightly over 9 inches long when erect. I think it has stopped growing because it has not changed in the last two years. I don't want anyone looking at it or talking about it because I feel like it might not be normal and I am deformed. Is something wrong with me?
A:	Heredity simply refers to the transmission of certain characteristics from parent to child. This transmission occurs via genes located on chromosomes inherited from both parents. The "Elephant Man" had a condition known as neurofibromatosis that can produce disfiguring tumors under the skin, but has nothing to do with penis size. You are not "deformed." More young men are concerned about their penis being too small rather than too large. As noted in the earlier reply, your penis is not “too large for sex,” since in a female, the walls of the vagina expand and lengthen in response to sexual excitement, so the vagina can accommodate even a large penis. You are also correct in noting that further growth is unlikely. Please feel free to discuss these concerns with your physician at your next routine visit. You're not alone. Take a look at a few of the questions related to this topic that other teens have asked us. I think my penis is too large. Should I talk to my doctor? When I get an erection it's six to seven inches long, is that normal for my age? I get erections when I work out. What should I do? For more information, check out these articles: Growing Up as a Boy Just for Guys – All About Puberty The Normal Penis The Truth About Masturbation Posted 7-22-02 Do you have a question? As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full .