Who Needs HoLEP?
HoLEP is recommended for men with moderate to severe symptoms of BPH, such as:
- Frequent urination, especially at night.
- Difficulty starting and stopping urination.
- Weak urine stream or dribbling.
- Feeling that the bladder is not fully emptied.
Doctors may also suggest HoLEP for patients who are not responding well to medications or who need a long-term solution to avoid recurring prostate problems.
Benefits of HoLEP
Many patients choose HoLEP because of its significant advantages over other prostate surgeries. Some key benefits include:
- Complete Removal of Excess Tissue – Unlike other treatments that only trim part of the prostate, HoLEP removes all the excess tissue, reducing the chance of regrowth.
- Minimal Bleeding – The holmium laser cauterizes blood vessels as it cuts, making the procedure safer, especially for patients on blood thinners.
- Faster Recovery – Patients typically spend only a short time in the hospital and can return to normal activities sooner than with conventional surgery.
- Lower Risk of Reoperation – Since HoLEP completely removes the obstructing tissue, the likelihood of needing another procedure in the future is much lower.
How HoLEP is Performed
HoLEP is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The resectoscope is a little tube that the surgeon puts through the urethra to reach the prostate. A high-powered holmium laser is then used to separate and remove the excess prostate tissue. The tissue is cut into smaller pieces using a device called a morcellator, allowing for easy removal.
Unlike transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which involves shaving off parts of the prostate, HoLEP completely clears out the obstructive tissue. This means better long-term results and fewer complications.
Recovery After HoLEP
Recovery from HoLEP is generally quick compared to conventional prostate surgeries. Most patients stay in the hospital for one night and have a catheter placed temporarily to drain urine. Some key points about recovery include:
- The catheter is usually removed within 24 hours.
- Most men can return to normal activities within a week, but heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks.
- Temporary urinary incontinence can occur but often improves within a few weeks.
- Some patients may experience mild burning during urination, but this usually resolves on its own.
HoLEP vs. Other BPH Treatments
HoLEP is often compared to other BPH treatments, such as TURP, GreenLight laser therapy, and open prostatectomy. Here’s how it stands out:
- TURP vs. HoLEP – TURP is a common procedure, but it removes only part of the prostate tissue, whereas HoLEP removes all obstructing tissue, reducing the risk of recurrence.
- GreenLight Laser vs. HoLEP – GreenLight laser vaporizes prostate tissue but may not be as effective for larger prostates. HoLEP is preferred for men with significantly enlarged prostates.
- Open Surgery vs. HoLEP – HoLEP is the better option for the majority of patients because conventional open prostate surgery requires a larger incision and a longer recovery period.
Risks and Considerations
HoLEP is generally safe, but like any procedure, it has some possible side effects, such as temporary urinary incontinence, retrograde ejaculation, or mild discomfort while urinating. These usually improve over time, and your urologist will follow up to ensure a smooth recovery.
Cost of HoLEP in Turkey
Turkey has become an increasingly popular choice for HoLEP and other medical procedures. Without compromising quality, HoLEP costs a lot less in Turkey than it does in Western nations. Factors like surgeon skill, hospital facilities, and extra services affect the cost.
Istanbul Med Assist offers HoLEP procedures at internationally accredited hospitals, ensuring top medical standards. The team provides full assistance, including consultation, hospital arrangements, and post-surgical support. Many international patients choose Istanbul Med Assist for their treatments due to its affordable pricing and high-quality healthcare services.
Conclusion
HoLEP is a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment for BPH, offering long-term relief with minimal risks. It is a preferred option for men seeking a solution that reduces the need for repeat procedures.
If you are considering HoLEP, Turkey offers world-class medical facilities with experienced urologists. Istanbul Med Assist ensures a smooth treatment journey, providing expert care at competitive prices. Whether for HoLEP or other medical procedures, Istanbul Med Assist helps international patients access the best healthcare options.
