The two families in brief
Inflatable implants
An inflatable implant has cylinders in the penis that fill with sterile saline when you squeeze a small pump in the scrotum. Pressing a release area empties them again.
- Three-piece: two cylinders, a pump and a separate reservoir behind the abdominal wall. Examples: Coloplast Titan, Boston Scientific AMS 700, Rigicon Infla10.
- Two-piece: the pump and reservoir are combined in the scrotum, so nothing is placed in the abdomen. Example: ZSI 475.
Malleable (semi-rigid) implants
A malleable implant is a pair of bendable rods placed in the penis. There is no pump or fluid. You bend the penis up for intercourse and down afterwards. Examples: Coloplast Genesis, Boston Scientific AMS Spectra and Tactra, Rigicon Rigi10 and ZSI 100.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Three-piece inflatable | Malleable |
|---|---|---|
| Flaccid state | Soft and natural-looking | Always firm; can be bent down |
| Erection | Firm on demand, then deflated | Same firmness at all times |
| Discretion | Very discreet under clothing | Can be more noticeable, especially in tight clothes |
| Ease of use | Needs some hand dexterity to use the pump | Simple bending; no pump |
| Parts | Cylinders, pump, reservoir, tubing | Two rods |
| Mechanical failure | Possible over time, as with any mechanical device | Less likely, as there are no moving fluid parts |
| Operation | Around 45–60 minutes | Often shorter |
| Pressure on penile tissue | Only when inflated | Constant, which may slightly raise the risk of erosion in some men |
Who each type may suit
An inflatable implant may suit you if
- You want the penis to look and feel as natural as possible when soft
- Discretion in changing rooms or tight clothing matters to you
- You have enough hand strength and dexterity to use a small pump
A malleable implant may suit you if
- You have limited hand function, for example from arthritis, stroke or a neurological condition
- You want the simplest device with the fewest mechanical parts
- Placing a reservoir would be difficult, or a shorter operation is preferable for health reasons
- You need an easy way to hold a condom catheter or manage incontinence devices
These are general guides only. Your surgeon considers your health, anatomy and previous surgery as well as your preferences.
What stays the same
Whichever type you choose, the implant is placed entirely inside the body through a small incision. It does not normally change sensation, orgasm or ejaculation, and it does not change desire or add length. Recovery is similar: up to two nights in hospital, about six days in Istanbul and usually 4–6 weeks before intercourse. See the recovery guide.
Risks
Both types carry risks. These include infection, bleeding or haematoma, erosion, and changes in how the penis looks or feels. Inflatable devices can also fail mechanically over time. An implant is a permanent change: if it is removed, other treatments for erectile dysfunction are unlikely to work. Results vary from person to person. If a problem occurs, revision surgery may be needed.
Making the decision
Most men who are able to use a pump choose an inflatable implant, but a malleable device is a sound choice for many others. It is worth handling demonstration devices and talking the options through with your surgeon, and with your partner if you wish.
Our Basic package includes the Coloplast Titan Touch inflatable implant. If a malleable device suits you better, we will give you a personal quote; see penile implant cost in Turkey. To discuss your options with Prof. Dr. Ateş Kadıoğlu, contact us.
Last updated: 28 September 2026. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Medical disclaimer.