UroLift® for an enlarged prostate
A minimally invasive BPH treatment that lifts and holds enlarged prostate tissue out of the way so it no longer blocks the urethra. There is no cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Chirag Dave
Key facts
- Treats urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Small permanent implants hold prostate tissue away from the urethra.
- No cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue.
- An option for men who prefer not to take BPH medication long-term.
Why the prostate causes urinary symptoms
The prostate surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. As the prostate enlarges with age, it can press on and narrow the urethra. That causes symptoms such as frequent urination day and night, a weak or slow stream, trouble starting, urgency and a feeling that the bladder is not empty.
How UroLift works
- The UroLift delivery device is passed through the urethra to reach the enlarged prostate.
- Small UroLift implants are placed to lift and hold the enlarged tissue out of the way, widening the opening of the urethra.
- The delivery device is removed, leaving the implants in place and the channel more open.
Who may be a candidate
- Men with bothersome urinary symptoms caused by BPH.
- Men who have had side effects or limited relief from BPH medication, or who prefer not to take it long-term.
- Men who want an option that does not remove prostate tissue.
Prostate size and shape matter. Your urologist will check whether UroLift suits your anatomy or whether another treatment, such as prostate artery embolization or TURP or laser surgery, is a better match.
Before the procedure
Your evaluation usually includes a review of your symptoms and medications, a urine flow test (you urinate into a flow meter) and an ultrasound to see whether urine is left in the bladder afterward. These tests help show whether the prostate is the cause of your symptoms.
After UroLift
For a short time afterward, some men have burning with urination, urgency or a need to urinate more often. Your urologist will explain what to expect, which medicines can help, and when to resume work, exercise and sexual activity.
More information from the manufacturer: urolift.com.
UroLift FAQ
Does UroLift remove prostate tissue?
No. UroLift lifts or holds the enlarged tissue out of the way so it no longer blocks the urethra. There is no cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue.
Are the UroLift implants permanent?
Yes. The small implants are designed to stay in place to keep the prostate tissue held open.
How is UroLift different from TURP?
TURP removes prostate tissue and needs a catheter for several days afterward. UroLift leaves the tissue in place and holds it out of the way.
How is UroLift different from prostate artery embolization?
UroLift is done through the urethra and opens the channel right away by holding tissue apart. PAE is done through a blood vessel and works by shrinking the prostate gradually.
What is recovery like?
Short-term effects can include burning with urination and needing to urinate more often for a short time. Your urologist will tell you when you can return to work and normal activity.
Can I stop my BPH medication after UroLift?
Some men use UroLift as an alternative to long-term medication. Do not stop any medication until your urologist tells you to.
Physicians who treat BPH
Talk with a urologist
Appointments at 14 Advanced Urology offices across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. Find an office.