For men living with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH), day-to-day life can be frustrating. Frequent trips to the bathroom, a weak urine stream, and disturbed nights are all too familiar for many.
Fortunately, there are treatment options that don’t involve major surgery or lengthy recovery times. Read further to find out everything you need to know about how this minimally invasive procedure works, from preparation through to recovery.
What Is BPH and Why Does It Need Treatment?
The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. When it becomes enlarged, it may press against the urethra and restrict urine flow. This is what causes the uncomfortable and disruptive urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
Left unaddressed, BPH symptoms may worsen over time. While medication is often tried first, it doesn’t work for everyone and may come with unwanted side effects. For men seeking a longer-term solution, a procedural approach might be more appropriate.
What Is the UroLift Procedure?
The UroLift system is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve BPH symptoms without cutting, heating, or removing any prostate tissue. Tiny implants are used to lift and hold the enlarged prostate lobes apart, opening up the urethra and restoring normal urine flow.
It’s carried out as a day-case procedure, meaning most patients will go home the same day. It’s typically performed under sedation or general anaesthesia, and it doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay.
Who Is It Suitable For?
UroLift may be a good option for men who have moderate to severe BPH symptoms and who’d prefer to avoid traditional surgery. It’s particularly worth considering if any of the following apply:
- You’ve tried BPH medication but haven’t been happy with the results or the side effects
- You don’t want to take daily medication long-term
- You’d like to preserve your sexual function
- You want to return to normal life quickly with minimal downtime
It’s worth noting that UroLift isn’t suitable for everyone. The size and shape of the prostate will need to be assessed beforehand, and a specialist may recommend a cystoscopy to evaluate this. Always consult with a urologist before deciding on any treatment.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The procedure itself follows a clear and straightforward process:
- Preparation: Minimal preparation is usually required. Your doctor will advise you on any medication adjustments beforehand.
- Anaesthesia: The procedure may be carried out under local, regional, or general anaesthesia, depending on your individual circumstances.
- Inserting the device: A small delivery device is passed through the urethra to reach the prostate.
- Placing the implants: Tiny permanent implants are positioned to lift and hold the prostate lobes apart, relieving the blockage.
- Completion: Because there’s no tissue removal involved, the procedure is completed relatively quickly.
The whole process typically takes less than an hour, and patients are usually discharged the same day.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from UroLift tends to be quicker than with more invasive surgical options. Many men may notice an improvement in their symptoms within two to four weeks of the procedure.
In the days immediately afterwards, it’s common to experience some mild pelvic discomfort, a temporary increase in urinary urgency or frequency, or some blood in the urine. These symptoms are generally short-lived and typically resolve within a few weeks. Drinking plenty of water can help flush the urinary system during this time.
In Closing
For men looking for a minimally invasive way to address BPH symptoms, UroLift offers a well-established option with a relatively swift recovery and no reported impact on sexual function in clinical studies.
As with any medical procedure, it’s essential to speak with a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether it’s the right choice for you. A specialist will assess your individual case and help you weigh up all the available options before moving forward.
