When oral medications and other ED treatments no longer work, a 3-piece inflatable penile implant is widely considered the gold standard solution — with satisfaction rates above 90% in published studies. The two devices you will encounter most often are the Coloplast Titan and the AMS 700. Both are excellent. The differences are subtle but meaningful, and the right choice depends on your anatomy, lifestyle, and goals.
Understanding 3-Piece Inflatable Penile Implants
A 3-piece inflatable penile prosthesis consists of three components: two cylinders implanted inside the corpora cavernosa, a fluid reservoir placed behind the abdominal wall, and a small pump concealed in the scrotum. When activated, the pump transfers fluid from the reservoir into the cylinders, creating an erection that closely mimics the natural process — both in appearance and rigidity.
The procedure is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia and typically takes 60–90 minutes. Most patients return home within 24 hours and resume sexual activity within 4–6 weeks. The implant is completely internal and undetectable when flaccid.
Clinical Insight
Penile implant surgery does not affect urination, ejaculation, orgasm sensation, or libido. The device restores erectile function — all other aspects of sexual health remain unchanged.
The Two Devices at a Glance
Coloplast
Titan & Titan Touch
- One-piece bioflex silicone cylinder
- Softer, more natural flaccid drape
- Touch-release pump mechanism
- Parylene coating for infection resistance
- Available in OTR (One-Touch Release) variant
- Lengths: 12–26 cm with rear tip extenders
Boston Scientific
AMS 700 CX / LGX
- Layered fabric-reinforced cylinder
- Firmer erection and flaccid state
- MS Pump with easy-squeeze deflation button
- InhibiZone antibiotic coating (minocycline / rifampin)
- LGX model also expands in length
- Lengths: 12–25 cm with standard & narrow-base options
Coloplast Titan vs AMS 700: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature |
Coloplast Titan |
AMS 700 |
| Manufacturer |
Coloplast (Denmark) |
Boston Scientific (USA) |
| Cylinder Material |
Bioflex silicone (single layer) |
Polyurethane fabric + silicone (multi-layer) |
| Erection Rigidity |
Excellent — slightly softer tip feel
Natural
|
Very firm throughout entire length
Maximum Rigidity
|
| Flaccid Appearance |
Softer, more natural drape |
Firmer flaccid state; sits closer to body |
| Pump Mechanism |
Touch-Release (OTR) — easier to deflate |
MS Pump — dedicated deflate button |
| Anti-infection Coating |
Hydrophilic parylene coating |
InhibiZone (minocycline + rifampin) |
| Length Expansion |
Girth only (CX equivalent) |
LGX model: girth + length expansion |
| Narrow-Base Option |
Yes (for smaller anatomy) |
Yes (NB cylinders available) |
| Revision Surgery Fit |
Excellent — preferred in scarred tissue |
Good — wider surgeon familiarity |
| Mechanical Reliability (10yr) |
>94% survival rate |
>93% survival rate |
| Patient Satisfaction |
~92–96% |
~91–95% |
| Warranty |
Lifetime (cylinders, pump, reservoir) |
Lifetime (cylinders, pump, reservoir) |
The Key Differences Explained
1. Cylinder Feel & Rigidity
The AMS 700's multi-layer construction produces a characteristically firm erection — many patients and partners describe it as the most natural-feeling rigidity. The Coloplast Titan, built from a single-layer bioflex silicone, also achieves excellent rigidity but with a marginally softer tip, which some men find more natural during intercourse.
For men who prioritize maximum stiffness, the AMS 700 CX is typically the preferred choice.
For men who prefer a slightly more flexible feel, particularly at the glans, the Titan may be a better fit.
2. The Pump: Touch-Release vs. MS Pump
The Coloplast Titan OTR uses a "touch-release" mechanism: to deflate, the patient simply squeezes and holds the upper part of the pump. Many men find this more intuitive, particularly older patients or those with limited hand dexterity.
The AMS 700 features a distinct deflation button on the MS Pump. Some patients prefer this clear, tactile separation between inflate and deflate functions. Your surgeon will demonstrate both before you decide.
3. Anti-Infection Technology
Infection is the most feared complication of penile implant surgery (occurring in roughly 1–3% of primary procedures). Both devices address this with proven coatings — but through different mechanisms.
The AMS 700 InhibiZone coating releases two antibiotics (minocycline and rifampin) locally in the first few days post-implant — the highest-risk window for bacterial colonisation. Studies show InhibiZone reduces infection risk by up to 60%.
The Coloplast Titan's hydrophilic coating absorbs antibiotic solution applied at the time of surgery (e.g., vancomycin/gentamicin), creating a tailored antibacterial barrier. Evidence for both approaches is strong and comparable in real-world outcomes.
4. Revision Surgery & Complex Cases
Patients who have undergone radical prostatectomy, Peyronie's disease correction, or previous implant surgery present with fibrotic and scarred corporal tissue.
In these cases, the Coloplast Titan's bioflex cylinder tends to be easier to size and implant precisely — a reason many experienced revision surgeons prefer it in re-do procedures.
In my practice, I’ve implanted both devices for over a decade. The truth is: in the right hands, both produce outstanding outcomes. The device decision accounts for perhaps 10% of the result — surgical experience and meticulous technique account for the other 90%.
— Consultant Urologist, Men's Health Istanbul
Ready to Reclaim Your Confidence?
Speak confidentially with one of our specialist urologists. We'll assess your situation and help you understand exactly which device — and which approach — is right for you.
Every case is unique. Request a free consultation and receive a personalised treatment plan.
Acıbadem Mah. Akasya Kent, Üsküdar/İstanbul
