As men grow older, the prostate gland tends to enlarge, leading to a condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate. BPH affects nearly 40 million men in the United States, with 40 percent of them experiencing symptoms in their 50s. By the age of 60, over half of men have BPH, which increases to 90 percent by the age of 85, according to the American Urological Association (AUA).

Symptoms of BPH occur because the enlarged prostate compresses the urinary tube or urethra, which is responsible for carrying urine from the bladder out of the body. These symptoms may include a weak, intermittent, or slow urine stream, frequent urination, a sudden urge to urinate, and the need to wake up during the night to urinate.

Various treatment options are available for BPH, with many patients initially prescribed alpha-blocker medications such as Flomax (tamsulosin). Some individuals find sufficient relief with medication alone. However, those who do not achieve desired results or prefer not to take daily medication for the rest of their lives can consider a procedure that widens the prostate channel. These treatment options range from minimally invasive procedures performed in an office setting to more extensive surgeries conducted in a hospital.

The UroLift® System is a minimally invasive alternative that effectively addresses BPH without the risks associated with traditional surgery. Typically performed as a one-time procedure in an office using local anesthesia, UroLift® employs small implants to keep the obstructed pathway open, thereby restoring urine flow. Most patients can return home without needing a catheter and experience symptom relief within two weeks.

It’s important to note that UroLift® is just one of several minimally invasive options available for treating BPH. To determine if UroLift® or other treatments suit you, consult your urologist.