UroLift for BPH

Frequent trips to the bathroom, a weak urine stream, or the feeling that your bladder never quite empties are all common signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that affects many men with age.

As the prostate grows, it can press against the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. This narrowing makes it harder for urine to pass through, leading to symptoms such as:

• Difficulty starting urination
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• A sudden urge to go
• The feeling that your bladder is not fully empty
• Interrupted sleep due to nighttime urination or nocturia

While not life-threatening, BPH can be frustrating, disruptive, and significantly affect quality of life.

Fortunately, there are several effective treatments, like UroLift.

The UroLift® for BPH procedure is a minimally invasive treatment that helps improve urine flow without the need for major surgery or ongoing medication.

Traditional treatments often involve cutting or removing prostate tissue. Instead, UroLift uses tiny implants to gently hold back the tissue pressing on your urethra. This process opens the urinary channel, making it easier to pass urine, relieving BPH symptoms.

The UroLift procedure is typically done in an outpatient setting, meaning you can go home the same day. It usually takes less than an hour and is performed under local or light sedation, so you remain comfortable and alert throughout.

During the procedure, your doctor uses a small instrument that is passed through the urethra. No incisions are made because the tiny implants are delivered into the prostate through this device.

The implants act like tie-backs. They gently pull back and hold the enlarged prostate tissue that’s pressing on the urethra. This creates a wider opening for urine to pass through. UroLift opens the channel instead of cutting or removing tissue. This way, it clears the blockage without damaging nearby structures.

Because the treatment doesn’t involve heating, cutting, or removing prostate tissue, recovery time is often shorter than with other options.

After the procedure, you might notice some temporary side effects like mild burning with urination, the urge to go more often, or light blood in the urine. These typically improve within 1 to 2 weeks.

While not everyone needs one, your doctor may place a catheter temporarily to help with urination during recovery. Most men find that their urinary symptoms improve significantly within the first month. Most men can resume normal activities within a few days.

One of the main reasons men choose UroLift is because it offers real relief from BPH symptoms without the need for major surgery or long-term medications. In many cases, urinary symptoms begin to improve within just a couple of weeks after the procedure.

Unlike some other treatments for BPH, UroLift doesn’t interfere with sexual function. That means no new issues with erections or ejaculation, which is an important consideration for many men.

Because it’s done as an outpatient procedure, there’s no need for a hospital stay. Most men are back to their usual routines within a few days, with minimal downtime. And since UroLift doesn’t require ongoing medication, you can avoid the side effects that sometimes come with BPH drugs, like:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Sexual side effects

Overall, it’s an effective option for men who want relief without the hassle or risks of traditional surgery.

It may not be recommended if you have a very large prostate or a significant middle lobe involvement. Your urologist can evaluate whether UroLift is a good match for your anatomy and symptoms.

1. How long do the UroLift implants last?

The implants are designed to be permanent and stay in place for life. However, BPH can continue to progress over time, so some men may eventually need additional treatment. That said, many experience relief for several years before considering any other procedures.

2. Can I still have other procedures in the future if I choose UroLift now?

Yes, having the UroLift procedure doesn’t limit your future treatment options. If your symptoms change or return over time, you can still consider other BPH therapies. UroLift is often chosen as a less invasive alternative before moving on to surgical options.

3. Does UroLift cause sexual side effects?

One of the key benefits of UroLift is that it typically does not cause sexual side effects. Unlike some other BPH treatments, UroLift preserves sexual function. For many men, this makes it an appealing option when considering treatment for urinary symptoms.