UroLift Procedure for Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

What is BPH (enlarged prostate)?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition where the prostate enlarges with age. As it grows, it can press on the urethra and block urine flow. BPH is not cancer, but it can affect daily life and sleep.

Common symptoms of BPH

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Weak or slow urine stream
• Trouble starting urination
• Feeling like the bladder is not fully empty
• Sudden urge to urinate

If you have these symptoms, a urologist can help determine the cause and discuss treatment options.

What is the UroLift procedure?

UroLift is a minimally invasive treatment for BPH that opens the blocked urethra without cutting, heating, or removing prostate tissue. Small implants are placed to hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, improving urine flow.

• Typically done in-office or outpatient setting
• Usually takes under one hour
• Most patients go home the same day
• Often no catheter required

How does UroLift work?

The UroLift system lifts and holds prostate tissue so it no longer blocks urine flow.

Step-by-step:

1. A small delivery device is inserted through the urethra
2. Tiny implants are placed to hold prostate tissue aside
3. The urethra opens, allowing better urine flow
4. The device is removed, leaving implants in place

What are the benefits of UroLift?

• Minimally invasive, no major surgery
• Fast recovery with minimal downtime
• Symptom relief often within weeks
• Preserves sexual function in most patients
• Can reduce or eliminate the need for medications

Who is a good candidate for UroLift?

You may be a candidate if you:

• Are age 45 or older
• Have symptoms of BPH
• Want to avoid long-term medication or surgery

A urologist will evaluate your symptoms and prostate size to confirm if this option is appropriate.

Check out this interview Dr. Kristina Kramer did for the John Muir Health Gala, which benefited the Medical Intensive Care at John Muir Hospital.

What is recovery like?

Most patients return home the same day. You may experience:

• Mild burning with urination
• Blood in urine
• Urgency or frequency to urinate

These symptoms usually improve within 2–4 weeks.

Does UroLift affect sexual function?

UroLift is designed to treat BPH without causing new, long-term erectile or ejaculatory dysfunction in most patients.

Does insurance cover UroLift?

UroLift is typically covered by Medicare and many private insurance plans. Coverage varies, so check with your provider.

When should you see a doctor for BPH?

Talk to a provider if:

• Symptoms are affecting sleep or daily life
• You have difficulty urinating
• Medications are not helping

Schedule a consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, talk with your urologist or primary care provider to discuss your options, including UroLift. A provider can help determine the most appropriate next step based on your symptoms and health history.