Living with an enlarged prostate—also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—can significantly affect a man’s quality of life, causing symptoms like frequent urination, weak urine flow, or incomplete bladder emptying.
Fortunately, advances in treatment have made it easier to manage BPH without invasive surgery. One promising option is UroLift, a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve symptoms quickly and effectively. Below, we look at UroLift’s uses, benefits, risks, and how it compares to other treatments.
What Is UroLift?
UroLift is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure used to treat BPH by lifting and holding the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, restoring normal urine flow. Unlike other treatments, UroLift doesn’t involve cutting, heating, or removing prostate tissue. Instead, it uses small, permanent implants to relieve the blockage caused by the prostate’s enlargement, improving urinary function with minimal downtime.
Who Is UroLift for?
The UroLift System is recommended for men with moderate to severe BPH, especially those who:
- Experience bothersome urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination, weak stream, or trouble starting/stopping urination
- Are looking for a non-surgical treatment that preserves sexual function
- Prefer a quick recovery with minimal disruption to their routine
- Cannot or prefer not to take daily medications for BPH management
UroLift may not be suitable for individuals with very large prostates or those with other underlying urological conditions. Consulting with a urologist like board-certified urologist, Dr. Hampel is essential to determine if this treatment is right for you.
UroLift Procedure Overview
The UroLift procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and takes around one hour. Here’s what to expect:
- Preparation: The procedure is typically done under local or light sedation, meaning most patients stay awake but feel minimal discomfort.
- Implant Placement: A small instrument is inserted through the urethra to access the prostate. The device places tiny implants to pull back the obstructive prostate tissue, creating a clear path for urine to flow.
- Immediate Results: Once the implants are in place, patients often notice an immediate improvement in urinary symptoms.
Since no tissue is removed, no catheter is required in most cases, and patients can go home the same day.
What Are the Benefits of UroLift?
The UroLift System offers several advantages over traditional BPH treatments:
- Minimally invasive: No cutting or heating of tissue
- Quick recovery: Many patients resume normal activities within a few days
- Preserves sexual function: UroLift has a low risk of sexual side effects, unlike some other BPH treatments
- Immediate symptom relief: Many patients experience a noticeable improvement within a few days
- Long-lasting results: Clinical studies show durable symptom relief for up to 5 years after the procedure
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Like any medical procedure, UroLift carries some risks, but they are generally mild and temporary. Some potential side effects include:
- Urinary discomfort or burning during urination (usually resolves in a few days)
- Blood in urine for a short period
- Urgency or frequency of urination immediately after the procedure
- In rare cases, implant dislodgement or infection
These side effects usually improve on their own within a week or two. If symptoms persist, follow-up with your healthcare provider is recommended.
Post-Procedure Care
After UroLift, most patients experience minimal downtime. Here’s what to expect during recovery:
- Resume normal activities: Most patients return to regular routines within 2-3 days.
- Hydrate well: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out the urinary system.
- Temporary symptoms: Some urinary discomfort or frequency may occur but should improve within a few days.
- Follow-up visit: A follow-up appointment with your urologist ensures everything is healing properly and functioning as expected.
Following these post-procedure guidelines can help ensure a smooth recovery.
Clinical Evidence Supporting UroLift
The UroLift System is backed by clinical trials and long-term studies showing significant improvements in urinary symptoms, quality of life, and patient satisfaction. Research demonstrates that UroLift offers effective relief without compromising sexual function, which is a common concern with other treatments. Many patients report lasting results for up to five years after the procedure.
Comparing UroLift to Other BPH Treatments
When it comes to managing BPH, patients have several treatment options. Here’s how UroLift compares:
- Medications (Alpha Blockers or 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors): These drugs can relieve symptoms but may cause side effects like dizziness or decreased libido. Medications also require lifelong use.
- TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate): A surgical procedure that involves removing part of the prostate. While effective, it requires general anesthesia and comes with a longer recovery time and higher risk of sexual dysfunction.
- Laser Therapy: Uses heat to remove excess tissue, offering faster recovery than surgery but still carries some risk of urinary or sexual side effects.
Compared to other treatments, UroLift offers a faster, non-surgical option with fewer risks, particularly for preserving sexual function, and it allows patients to avoid long-term medication use.
For many patients, it strikes the right balance between effectiveness, convenience, and quality of life. However, it’s essential to consult with Dr. Hampel to determine the best treatment based on your individual needs.
Final Thoughts: Is UroLift Right for You?
UroLift is a game-changer for men with BPH who want fast relief without major surgery or long recovery times. With minimal downtime, preservation of sexual function, and lasting symptom relief, it offers an attractive alternative to traditional treatments.
If you or someone you know is struggling with BPH symptoms, talk to Dr. Ori Hampel about whether UroLift is the right solution. Managing an enlarged prostate doesn’t have to disrupt your life—and with the right treatment, you can get back to living comfortably and confidently.
Call (713) 477-8600 to schedule a consultation in our urology clinic in Pasadena and Webster, TX to see if UroLift is the right choice for you!