UroLift® prostate treatment
A minimally invasive treatment for enlarged prostate symptoms.
We offer UroLift® prostate treatment to help relieve urinary difficulties caused by an enlarged prostate while aiming to preserve sexual function and quality of life.Â
Sometimes also called
- Prostatic urethral lift
At a glance
-
Typical hospital stay
Day case -
Procedure duration
60 mins -
Type of anaesthetic
Local with or without sedation -
Available to self-pay?
Yes -
Covered by health insurance?
Yes
Why Spire?
- Fast access to diagnostic tests and scans
- Expert, personalised treatments
- Internationally and nationally renowned consultants
- Clear, simple pricing and flexible payment options
Using implants, the UroLift® system provides an alternative to drugs or major surgery to treat an enlarged prostate. It opens up the blocked urethra by lifting the enlarged prostate out of the way without any cutting, heating or removal of the tissue.
Why you might need it
If you’ve been suffering from an enlarged prostate or BHP (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: a non-cancerous growth of the prostate, which causes it to enlarge and press on the urethra) you’ve probably been experiencing urinary problems, such as:
- The frequent need to go to the toilet
- An urgent feeling of needing to urinate
- Delay or difficulty on starting urination
- Feeling that you can’t completely empty your bladder
- A stream that starts and stops and is weak
For some men, the symptoms will be mild, but for others the symptoms can have a detrimental affect on their lives, requiring them to seek treatment.
UroLift® is a new, minimally invasive treatment we offer at Spire to help open up the blocked urethra using inserted implants to lift or hold up the prostate tissue. It does not involve cutting, heating or removing any of the tissue, which can have long term side effects on erectile function and urinary incontinence.
The implants are made from surgical stainless steel, which resists corrosion and allows them to be permanent.
UroLift® doesn’t require an overnight stay and you can typically return to normal daily activities soon after treatment. It’s the only procedure for BHP that preserves sexual functions.
Find a Spire hospital offering this treatment
Who will do it?
Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.
All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.
Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.
Before your treatment
You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.
We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest medication to relax the muscles around the bladder or shrink the prostate. We may also consider TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) either by laser or traditional surgery.
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Preparing for your treatment
We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.
For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.
Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.
The procedure
We understand that having surgery can potentially be a time of anxiety and worry. Our experienced and caring medical staff will be there for you every step of the way.
UroLift® is performed under a local anaesthetic or light general anaesthetic. It typically lasts 30-45 minutes.
The urologist uses an endoscope to insert the UroLift® system into the urethra through the tip of the penis. The urologist then places tiny implants to hold the prostate lobes apart, like open curtains on a window, to relieve compression on the urethra. This allows urine to flow normally again.
Typically, four implants are placed in the prostate; two on each side to adequately pull the gland back but this is dependent on the size of the prostate and the location of the enlargement.
Aftercare
The operation is usually carried out as a day-case, so you won't need to stay overnight in hospital and can normally return home the same day without a catheter.
After this, you will be taken to your room or comfortable area where you can rest and recuperate until we feel you’re ready to go home.
Pain relief
Patients may experience some urinary discomfort during the recovery period.
We'll give you pain relief while you’re in hospital and when you go home.Â
We will provide you with a supply of all the medicines your consultant feels you need to take home with you after you've left hospital, up to 14 days. This may be at an additional cost to some patients.
Patients can return to normal activity as soon as they feel confident to do so and many experience relief from around two weeks post-operation.
Looking after you
Even after you’ve left hospital, we’re still looking after you every step of the way. Your consultant is likely to want to see you six weeks after your operation to see how you’re doing.
On rare occasions, complications following UroLift® can occur. These can include: haematuria, dysuria, micturition urgency, pelvic pain and urge incontinence. If you experience any of related symptoms discussed by with your consultant, please call us straight away​. Â
We will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.
If you have any questions or concerns we’re ready to help.
Why choose Spire?
We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.
Important to note
The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.
What is an enlarged prostate?Â
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland at the base of the bladder in men. As men age, it often grows larger. An enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or benign prostatic enlargement (BPE), is common and usually not serious, but it can cause symptoms that affect everyday life.
As the prostate enlarges, it can press on the bladder and urethra, affecting urine flow and causing a weak stream, frequent trips to the toilet, or the feeling of not fully emptying the bladder.Â
What is UroLift® prostate treatment?
UroLift® is a minimally invasive procedure that relieves urinary symptoms by lifting and holding excess prostate tissue out of the way, widening the urethra.
Small implants are inserted through a cystoscope — a thin telescope passed through the urethra — to gently hold the prostate lobes apart.
Unlike traditional surgery, tissue is not removed. This helps improve urinary function while aiming to preserve sexual function and quality of life.
Signs of needing a UroLift® prostate treatment
A UroLift® procedure may be considered if your urinary symptoms are persistent, worsening, or affecting your daily life. You might consider UroLift® prostate treatment if you notice:
- Difficulty passing urine, a weak flow, or urine that stops and starts
- Feeling that your bladder hasn’t emptied fully
- Frequent trips to the toilet, especially at night
- The sudden urge to urinate
- Discomfort or pain while urinating
If your symptoms interfere with daily activities or are not relieved by lifestyle changes or medications, a prostate UroLift® treatment may be an option.
Benefits of UroLift® prostate treatment
The procedure is designed to:
- Improve urine flow and reduce the need to strain
- Reduce urinary frequency, urgency, and night-time trips to the toilet
- Avoid the removal of prostate tissue
- Maintain sexual function, including ejaculatory and erectile function
- Minimise recovery time compared with traditional prostate surgery
Is UroLift® prostate treatment right for you?
UroLift® may be suitable depending on your symptoms, prostate size, and overall health. It’s often recommended for men who are sexually active or planning a family, as it usually preserves sexual function.
It’s most appropriate for moderately enlarged prostates without significant urine retention and can sometimes be done under local anaesthetic, making it an option for men unable to have general anaesthesia. Your consultant will advise whether UroLift® is the right choice for you.
Alternative treatments to UroLift® prostate treatment
If your symptoms are mild, you may choose not to have treatment. Other options include:
- Medication — tablets that relax the prostate muscle or gradually shrink the prostate
- Transurethral reduction of the prostate (TURP) — a traditional procedure that removes prostate tissue via the urethra
- Minimally invasive treatments — such as steam therapy (Rezum®) or water jet ablation (Aquablation/Aquabeam®)
- Laser surgery — removes prostate tissue through the urethra
- Open surgery — rarely performed, typically for very large prostates
- Catheter use — permanent or intermittent, for patients unable to have surgery
Find your nearest Spire hospital
Many of our hospitals offer private UroLift® treatment, performed by experienced consultant urologists who specialise in managing an enlarged prostate.
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How the surgery works
Before the UroLift® procedure starts, a small drip (a thin, flexible tube inserted into a vein) may be inserted into your arm. A local anaesthetic gel will be applied to your urethra to reduce any discomfort. In some cases, other anaesthetic options will be used.
Then, a very small telescope will be inserted into your urethra (tube through which urine leaves your body) and used to examine your prostate, urethra and bladder. The UroLift® system will then be passed through the telescope.
Next, small implants will be inserted into the prostate to hold back excess prostate tissue. The number of implants needed varies depending on the size of the prostate. However, on average, 4–5 implants are inserted.
If there is bleeding due to your procedure, a catheter — a thin, flexible drainage tube for your urine — will be inserted into your urethra.
It takes around one hour to complete the procedure. If you have a local anaesthetic, you should be able to eat and drink after 1–2 hours, and return home after you have passed urine.
What to expect during a UroLift® prostate treatment
Before the procedure
Pre-admission form
You’ll complete a form about your medical history, medications, allergies and home support. This helps the team plan your care.
Pre-admission clinic (if needed)
Some patients may be asked to come in a few days before surgery for tests such as blood tests or X-rays.
Medication
Bring all your medicines, including over-the-counter or herbal remedies. Your care team will advise if anything should be stopped or adjusted.
Day of treatment
Admission and pre-surgery checks
We’ll confirm your details, medications, and allergies, and take routine observations. You’ll meet your consultant and anaesthetist to discuss the procedure and anaesthetic options, and sign an informed consent form.
Signing the informed consent form means you understand what your procedure and recovery involve, the risks, complications and outcomes, as well as alternative treatment options and, importantly, agree to the procedure.Â
Removal of clothing
You’ll change into a hospital gown and disposable underwear so the team can work safely. Staff are on hand to support you if you feel anxious or have questions.
Food and drink
Current guidance allows shorter fasting (ie not eating and drinking for a set period), and you may be able to sip small amounts of water before your procedure. Following your admission instructions helps your surgery run smoothly and avoid delays.
The operation
Who will be involved?
Your procedure will be carried out by a Consultant Urologist, that is, a consultant who specialises in treating the urinary system. Your skilled care team will include an anaesthetist and nurses who will support you before, during, and after your surgery.
How long does the procedure take?
The UroLift® procedure usually takes around 1 hour to complete.
Anaesthetic choices
UroLift® is usually done under local anaesthetic, numbing the urethra while you stay awake. Sedation, regional, or general anaesthesia may also be used. Your anaesthetist will discuss the best option for you before surgery.
Pain during surgery and straight after UroLift® surgery
Most patients experience little or no pain during the procedure. After surgery, mild bladder discomfort is common, particularly when urinating. However, any discomfort is usually temporary.
Your hospital stay
After the procedure, you will spend some time in the recovery area while nurses monitor your vital signs and comfort.
Most patients can pass urine within 6–12 hours, though a temporary catheter is occasionally needed. UroLift® is usually a day case procedure, so you can go home the same day. In some cases, you may stay overnight, depending on your health and the type of anaesthetic used.Â
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Recovering from a UroLift® procedure
Most patients notice improvements in urinary symptoms within a few days, though it can take several weeks for the full effect.
Short-term side effects
You may experience temporary discomfort, burning, or urgency when passing urine. Blood in the urine is common for a few days. These side effects usually settle within a week.
After the operation
In the first 24 hours, rest and follow the nursing team’s guidance. You may feel tired if you had sedation or a general anaesthetic. Once home, continue to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and gradually return to normal activities.
Wound care
There are no external wounds, as the procedure is performed entirely through the tip of the penis.
Sexual activity
You can usually resume sexual activity within a few days of the operation.
Pain relief
Mild pain or discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers, as recommended by your doctor.
Smoking
Avoid smoking during recovery to support healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Driving
Do not drive for at least 24 hours if you have had sedation or a general anaesthetic. Always ensure you feel alert and safe before driving.
Time off work
Most patients return to work within a few days, depending on their recovery and the physical demands of their job.
What you should/shouldn’t do
Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for a few weeks. Follow your doctor’s guidance for a safe return to exercise and other regular activities.
Treatment and recovery timeline
Recovery times vary for each person, but here’s a general idea of what to expect after your UroLift® procedure.
0-12 hours
2-3 days
0-12 hours
Local anaesthetic wears off. Able to pass urine and consume light food
24 hours
Most patients go home the same day
2-3 days
Resume light walking, exercise and sexual intercourse. Avoid heavy lifting. Expect mild discomfort when urinating
-
0-12 hours
Local anaesthetic wears off. Able to pass urine and consume light food
-
24 hours
Most patients go home the same day
-
2-3 days
Resume light walking, exercise and sexual intercourse. Avoid heavy lifting. Expect mild discomfort when urinating
Risks and complications
Like any procedure, UroLift® carries some risks, but serious complications are uncommon.
Typical issues include:Â
- Infection, urinary retention requiring a catheter, or narrowing of the urethra (low risk)
- Mild bleeding or burning when passing urine, usually settling within a few days
- Small risk of changes to erections, though sexual function is usually preserved
- Symptoms may return in a few cases, requiring further treatment
- Temporary urinary urgency or slight leakage — generally improves over weeks
The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.