Laser Therapy for BPH: Is It a Better Alternative to Surgery?
Understanding BPH and Its Symptoms
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that affects men as they age. The enlarged prostate presses against the urethra, leading to symptoms such as:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Difficulty starting and stopping urination
- A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Urgency and increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
While medications can provide temporary relief, many men eventually require a procedure to remove excess prostate tissue.
What is Laser Therapy for BPH?
Laser therapy is a modern, minimally invasive treatment that uses laser energy to remove or shrink excess prostate tissue. Unlike traditional surgery, it does not require large incisions and offers a quicker recovery time.
The most commonly used laser procedures for BPH include:
✅ Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP): Removes obstructive prostate tissue using a holmium laser, allowing better urine flow.
✅ Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate (PVP): Also known as GreenLight laser therapy, this method vaporizes enlarged prostate tissue.
✅ Thulium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (ThuLEP): Similar to HoLEP but uses a thulium laser for precise tissue removal.
Laser Therapy vs. Traditional Surgery: Which is Better?
| Feature | Laser Therapy | Traditional Surgery (TURP, Open Prostatectomy) |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive (no major incisions) | Requires incisions or endoscopic instruments |
| Hospital Stay | Outpatient or 24-hour stay | 2-3 days hospitalization |
| Recovery Time | 1-2 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Risk of Bleeding | Minimal, suitable for patients on blood thinners | Higher risk, not ideal for blood thinner users |
| Catheter Use | Shorter duration (1 day or less) | Longer catheterization needed |
| Side Effects | Lower risk of erectile dysfunction & incontinence | Higher chances of complications |
Who Can Benefit from Laser Therapy?
Laser therapy is ideal for:
✔️ Men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms.
✔️ Patients who cannot undergo traditional surgery due to health risks.
✔️ Those on blood thinners or at risk of excessive bleeding.
✔️ Individuals seeking faster recovery with fewer side effects.
However, men with extremely large prostates may still require conventional surgery for complete symptom relief.
Final Thoughts
Laser therapy for BPH offers a safer, faster, and more effective alternative to surgery, with fewer complications and a shorter recovery time. If you’re struggling with BPH symptoms, consulting an experienced urologist like Dr. Ranjan Dey can help determine the best treatment for you.