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UroLift in Gangnam, Seoul: A Guide for International Patients. Enlarged prostate, without removing tissue.
UroLift is a minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate (BPH). Small implants open the urinary channel instead of cutting tissue away.
- About 15–20 minutes
- Usually no catheter
- Same-day discharge
- Aims to preserve ejaculation
UroLift vs medication vs TURP: how do BPH treatments compare?
A general overview. The right choice depends on your prostate size, symptoms and priorities, and your urologist decides with you.
| Feature | Medication | UroLift | Resection surgery (TURP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it works | Daily pills relax or shrink the prostate | Implants hold tissue aside to open the channel | Prostate tissue is cut away from inside |
| Tissue removed | None | None | Yes |
| Anesthesia | None | Local or sedation | Usually spinal or general |
| Catheter and stay | Not applicable | Usually no catheter; same-day discharge | Catheter and hospital stay are common |
| Sexual side effects | Some medicines can affect ejaculation or libido | Designed to preserve erection and ejaculation | Changes to ejaculation are common |
| Best suited to | Mild to moderate symptoms | Selected prostate sizes and shapes | Larger prostates or more severe blockage |
Who is a good candidate for UroLift?
Not every enlarged prostate suits UroLift. An exam and imaging come first.
May suit you if
UroLift is often considered by men who want to avoid daily medicine or tissue removal.
- Bothersome urinary symptoms from BPH
- Medicine is not working well or causes side effects
- Preserving ejaculation is important to you
- You prefer a short, same-day procedure
Another approach may be better if
Your urologist may suggest Rezum, a combined approach or a different treatment.
- The prostate is very large
- The prostate has a shape that implants cannot hold well
- Other conditions need to be ruled out first
- You cannot pass urine at all (needs prompt care)
What happens on UroLift treatment day?
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Assessment
A urologist reviews your symptoms, examines you and checks the prostate's size and shape to confirm UroLift is suitable. Bring a list of current medicines.
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Anesthesia
Local or sedation anesthesia is used, depending on your needs and the urologist's advice.
-
Implant placement
Through the urethra, small implants are placed to pull and hold the enlarged tissue aside. Nothing is cut away. The procedure takes about 15–20 minutes.
-
Home the same day
A urinary catheter is usually not needed, and you go home the same day. Daily activities can resume the same day. Your urologist explains which temporary urinary symptoms are expected.
Frequently asked questions
What is UroLift, in simple terms?
UroLift, or prostatic urethral lift, treats an enlarged prostate. As the prostate grows, it squeezes the urethra, the tube that carries urine. UroLift places small implants that pull the enlarged tissue aside, like tying back curtains, to widen the channel. No prostate tissue is removed, which is why it is called a non-resection treatment.
Will UroLift affect my erections or ejaculation?
UroLift is designed to preserve sexual function, including erection and ejaculation, because it does not remove prostate tissue. This is one of the main reasons men choose it over resection surgery such as TURP. Individual experiences can vary, so discuss your priorities and any existing sexual health concerns with your urologist during consultation.
Will I need a urinary catheter after UroLift?
Usually not. Most men go home the same day without a catheter, and daily activities can resume the same day. Some men have temporary urinary symptoms such as burning, urgency or a little blood in the urine as things settle. Your urologist explains what is expected and when to contact the clinic.
Is UroLift a permanent fix for BPH?
UroLift can relieve symptoms, but the prostate can continue to grow with age, so some men need further treatment in the future. Results vary between people, and no treatment can promise a permanent cure. Your urologist explains how UroLift fits your situation and what follow-up is recommended.
What if my prostate is too large for UroLift?
Larger prostates, or prostates with a certain shape, may not be held well by implants alone. HIGHST Urology Clinic also offers Rezum and other BPH care, and a combined or different approach may be advised. Your urologist decides after examining you and assessing your prostate, so you are not committed to UroLift in advance.
Can I have UroLift in Seoul as a visitor?
Yes. HIGHST Urology Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul treats foreign patients without Korean national insurance or ID. You consult with a urologist in English and pay directly by card or cash, with an itemized quote after assessment. Because discharge is usually same-day, plan a few days in Seoul and ask your coordinator about follow-up.
HIGHST Urology Clinic Gangnam
Address
14–15F, 655 Seolleung-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Gangnam-gu Office Station, Exit 2
Opening hours (KST)
Mon–Fri 09:30–18:30
Sat 09:30–15:30
Sun & public holidays closed
Contact
WhatsApp (English): +82 10-3487-1618
Clinic: +82 2-514-1415
Talk to a urologist, privately
Message us in English — a coordinator replies and a urologist reviews your question.
Medical information on this page is general and does not replace a consultation. Timing, results and suitability vary by individual.