Enlarged Prostate Treatment in Singapore: Restore Urinary Function
Personalised treatment plan for enlarged prostate using surgical and minimally invasive approaches.
Frequent urination disrupting your sleep? Weak urine flow or difficulty starting? These symptoms may be linked to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition affecting many men as they age.
Seeking a timely assessment for an enlarged prostate can help relieve urinary symptoms, improve bladder function and reduce the risk of complications. Today, a wide range of treatment options are available, from medication to minimally invasive procedures and modern surgical techniques.
At URODOC, patients seeking enlarged prostate treatment in Singapore receive personalised evaluation and treatment planning tailored to symptom severity, prostate size, lifestyle needs and recovery goals.
What is Treatment for Enlarged Prostate?
Treatment for enlarged prostate (BPH) aims to relieve urinary symptoms and improve bladder function through medication, minimally invasive procedures or surgery.
The prostate is a gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. As men age, the prostate may enlarge gradually and obstruct urine flow. This condition is known medically as benign prostatic hyperplasia.
The goal of benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment is to:
- Improve urine flow
- Reduce urinary frequency and urgency
- Improve sleep disrupted by nocturia
- Prevent complications such as urinary retention
- Improve overall quality of life
Treatment recommendations depend on several factors, including symptom severity, prostate size, bladder function and personal preferences.
When is Treatment Necessary for BPH?
Not every patient with prostate enlargement requires immediate intervention. Mild symptoms may sometimes be monitored or managed conservatively. However, treatment may be recommended when symptoms become more persistent or disruptive.
Common reasons for seeking BPH treatment in Singapore include:
- Moderate to severe urinary symptoms
- Frequent urination disrupting sleep
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Blood in the urine
- Urinary retention
- Reduced quality of life
Nocturia or waking multiple times at night to urinate, is one of the most common reasons patients seek treatment. Poor sleep quality may contribute to fatigue, reduced concentration and impaired daily functioning.
Early treatment can prevent complications.
Assessment by our specialist also helps exclude other possible causes of urinary symptoms, including bladder disorders, infections or prostate cancer.
How is BPH Diagnosed Before Treatment?
Many men delay seeking medical attention for urinary symptoms because they assume these changes are a normal part of ageing or feel uncomfortable discussing bladder and prostate problems. At URODOC, consultations are conducted in a professional and confidential setting where patients can openly discuss symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, disrupted sleep or difficulty emptying the bladder.
Dr Lee Fang Jann is a BPH specialist with expertise in prostate enlargement management and minimally invasive urological procedures. During the consultation, Dr Lee takes time to understand each patient’s urinary symptoms, medical history, lifestyle concerns and treatment goals before recommending an appropriate management plan.
PSA Blood Test
A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test helps assess prostate health and may assist in evaluating for other prostate conditions. PSA testing may also help guide further investigations where clinically appropriate.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging may assess:
- Prostate size
- Residual urine volume
- Bladder changes
- Kidney function
This helps evaluate how significantly the enlarged prostate is affecting urinary function.
Uroflowmetry
Uroflowmetry measures urine flow rate and helps assess the degree of urinary obstruction caused by prostate enlargement. Reduced flow rates may suggest a more significant blockage affecting bladder emptying.
IPSS
The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire helps quantify symptom severity and monitor treatment response over time. The questionnaire also helps assess how urinary symptoms are affecting sleep, daily comfort and quality of life. These investigations help guide personalised treatment recommendations for enlarged prostate surgery in Singapore.
BPH Treatment Options
Several prostate enlargement treatment options are available today, ranging from medication to minimally invasive procedures and surgery.
Treatment selection depends on:
- Severity of symptoms
- Prostate size
- General health
- Lifestyle priorities
- Sexual function concerns
- Response to previous treatment
Some patients may respond well to medication alone, while others may benefit from procedural intervention for more durable symptom relief.
Medication for BPH
Medication is commonly used as a first-line treatment for men with mild to moderate symptoms.
Alpha Blockers
Alpha blockers work by relaxing muscles around the prostate and bladder neck, helping improve urine flow.
Potential benefits include:
- Faster symptom relief
- Improved urinary stream
- Reduced difficulty urinating
These medications do not shrink the prostate itself but may improve symptoms relatively quickly.
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
These medications reduce the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone involved in prostate growth.
Potential effects may include:
- Gradual reduction in prostate size
- Reduced risk of urinary retention
- Long-term symptom improvement
These medications often require several months before maximal benefit is seen.
Who Benefits Most from Medication?
Medication is generally most suitable for:
- Mild to moderate symptoms
- Smaller to moderately enlarged prostates
- Patients wishing to avoid procedures initially
Limitations of Medication
While medication may help control symptoms, limitations include:
- Symptoms may return if medication is stopped
- Side effects may occur
- Some patients continue to experience progressive symptoms over time
Possible side effects vary depending on the medication used and may include dizziness, low blood pressure, reduced libido or ejaculatory changes.
Minimally Invasive Treatments for BPH
Minimally invasive therapies have become increasingly popular because they may provide symptom relief with shorter recovery times and reduced downtime.
UroLift (Prostatic Urethral Lift)
UroLift is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate without removing or destroying prostate tissue. The procedure works by lifting and separating enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra to create a wider urinary channel and improve urine flow.
During the procedure, small permanent implants are placed within the prostate to hold obstructing tissue aside. Because no tissue is cut or removed, UroLift is generally associated with less tissue trauma and a quicker recovery compared to more invasive surgical procedures.
The procedure is usually performed as a day surgery and may be suitable for men with moderate urinary symptoms and specific prostate anatomy.
Benefits include:
- Faster recovery and return to daily activities
- Minimally invasive treatment approach
- No cutting or removal of prostate tissue
- Reduced tissue damage
- Preservation of sexual function in many patients
- Short catheter duration or no catheter in selected patients
- Improvement in urine flow and urinary symptoms
Many patients experience relief from symptoms such as weak urine stream, incomplete bladder emptying, urinary urgency and frequent nighttime urination. UroLift may be considered for patients seeking symptom improvement while preserving sexual and ejaculatory function where possible.
Rezum (Water Vapour Therapy)
Rezum is a minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled water vapour (steam) therapy to reduce enlarged prostate tissue causing urinary obstruction. The procedure delivers targeted thermal energy into the prostate, allowing excess tissue to gradually shrink over time.
During the procedure:
- Steam is delivered into the targeted prostate tissue
- Excess tissue gradually shrinks
- Pressure on the urethra is reduced
- Urine flow improves progressively over time
Because Rezum treats the obstructing tissue internally without major surgery, it is commonly performed as a day procedure with relatively short recovery periods in selected patients.
Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive treatment approach
- Day procedure treatment
- Faster recovery compared to more invasive surgery
- Reduced need for long-term medication
- Improvement in urinary flow and bladder emptying
- Preservation of erectile function in many patients
- Preservation of ejaculatory function in selected patients
Symptom improvement may continue developing gradually over several weeks as the prostate tissue responds to treatment and shrinks. Many patients notice progressive improvement in urinary frequency, urgency, weak stream and nighttime urination following recovery.
iTind
iTind (Temporarily Implanted Nitinol Device) is a minimally invasive treatment designed to improve urine flow by reshaping the bladder neck and prostate opening without removing prostate tissue. The device is temporarily placed within the prostate and removed after several days once the desired remodelling effect has been achieved.
During the procedure:
- A temporary nitinol device is placed within the prostate
- Gentle pressure is applied to reshape the urinary channel
- The device remains in place for a short treatment period
- The device is then removed during a follow-up visit
Because no tissue is removed and no permanent implant is left behind, iTind may appeal to patients seeking a less invasive alternative to surgery.
Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive treatment approach
- No permanent implant
- No tissue removal
- Short recovery period
- Preservation of erectile function in many patients
- Preservation of ejaculatory function in selected patients
- Day procedure treatment in selected cases
iTind may be considered for selected men with mild to moderate urinary symptoms and suitable prostate anatomy. A specialist assessment is required to determine whether this treatment is appropriate.
Prolieve
Prolieve is a minimally invasive treatment that combines microwave heat therapy with balloon dilation to reduce urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate. The treatment aims to relieve pressure on the urethra while improving urine flow and bladder emptying.
During the procedure:
- A specialised catheter is inserted through the urethra
- Microwave energy is delivered to the enlarged prostate tissue
- Balloon dilation helps widen the urinary channel
- Obstruction is reduced to improve urinary flow
Because the treatment is performed without surgical removal of prostate tissue, recovery is generally shorter.
Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive treatment approach
- Day procedure treatment in selected cases
- Reduced need for hospitalisation
- Improvement in urinary flow and bladder emptying
- Short recovery period
- Can be performed under local anaesthesia in selected patients
Prolieve may be suitable for selected patients seeking an alternative to long-term medication or more invasive surgery. Suitability depends on prostate size, symptom severity and individual clinical factors.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive BPH Treatments
Minimally invasive procedures may offer:
- Smaller or no incisions
- Shorter recovery periods
- Lower bleeding risk
- Reduced hospital stay
- Faster return to daily activities
Suitability depends on prostate size, anatomy and severity of symptoms.
Surgical Options for Enlarged Prostate
Surgery may be recommended when symptoms are severe, complications are present or minimally invasive approaches are unlikely to provide sufficient relief.
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
TURP remains one of the most established surgical treatments for BPH. The procedure is designed to remove enlarged prostate tissue that is obstructing urine flow and causing bothersome urinary symptoms.
TURP is performed using specialised instruments inserted through the urethra, which means no external surgical incision is usually required. During the procedure, obstructing prostate tissue is carefully removed to create a wider urinary channel and improve bladder emptying.
he procedure is commonly recommended for patients experiencing significant urinary obstruction, recurrent urinary retention, persistent weak stream or poor response to medication.
Benefits include:
- Significant improvement in urinary symptoms
- Stronger and more consistent urine flow
- Improved bladder emptying
- Reduced frequency and urgency of urination
- Reduced nighttime urination (nocturia)
- Long track record of clinical use and outcomes
Many patients experience noticeable improvement in urinary flow and quality of life after recovery. TURP continues to be widely performed because of its established effectiveness in relieving urinary obstruction caused by prostate enlargement.
HoLEP (Laser Surgery)
HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) is a modern laser procedure used to remove enlarged prostate tissue causing urinary obstruction. The procedure uses high-powered laser energy to precisely separate and remove obstructing prostate tissue while preserving surrounding structures.
HoLEP is particularly suitable for patients with larger prostates or more significant urinary obstruction, where more extensive tissue removal may be required. The laser-based approach may also reduce bleeding in selected patients.
Benefits include:
- Effective removal of obstructing tissue
- Durable long-term symptom relief
- Reduced bleeding risk in selected patients
- Improved urinary flow and bladder emptying
- Lower likelihood of requiring repeat treatment over time
Because HoLEP removes a larger amount of prostate tissue, many patients experience substantial improvement in urinary symptoms and flow rates after recovery. The procedure is increasingly used as a minimally invasive alternative for patients seeking effective long-term management of enlarged prostate symptoms.
Greenlight Laser
Greenlight laser therapy vaporises obstructing prostate tissue using laser energy.
Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive approach
- Reduced bleeding
- Shorter catheter duration in selected patients
- Faster recovery for some patients
The suitable surgical approach depends on prostate size, anatomy, symptom severity and overall health.
Which BPH Treatment is Right for You?
Different treatments are designed for different symptom profiles and prostate sizes.
| Treatment | Suitable For | Invasiveness | Recovery | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medication | Mild symptoms | None | Immediate | Symptom control |
| UroLift | Moderate symptoms | Low | Fast | Preserves function |
| Rezum | Moderate symptoms | Low | Fast | Minimally invasive |
| TURP | Severe symptoms | Moderate | Moderate | High effectiveness |
| HoLEP | Large prostate | Moderate | Moderate | Long-term solution |
Patients concerned about preserving sexual function may prefer certain minimally invasive approaches, while patients with severe obstruction or larger prostates may benefit more from surgical procedures.
Our specialist consultation at URODOC helps identify the most appropriate treatment based on individual priorities and clinical findings.
How to Choose the Suitable Treatment for an Enlarged Prostate?
Choosing the appropriate treatment for an enlarged prostate involves balancing symptom relief, recovery expectations, long-term outcomes and personal lifestyle considerations. Different treatments may be more suitable depending on prostate size, symptom severity and the patient’s treatment priorities.
Important factors include:
- Severity of Symptoms – Mild urinary symptoms may respond well to medication, lifestyle modification or monitoring, while more severe urinary obstruction or persistent symptoms may require minimally invasive procedures or surgery.
- Prostate Size – Larger prostates may respond better to procedures such as HoLEP, while smaller to moderate-sized glands may be suitable for treatments such as UroLift or Rezum.
- Age and Lifestyle – Recovery timelines, work demands, travel frequency, physical activity levels and overall lifestyle may influence which treatment approach is more practical and suitable.
- Sexual Function Concerns – Some patients prioritise preserving ejaculation or erectile function. Different BPH treatments carry varying risks relating to sexual side effects, which should be discussed during treatment planning.
- Preference for Minimally Invasive Treatment – Some patients prefer procedures associated with shorter recovery times, less tissue removal or reduced need for hospitalisation, where clinically appropriate.
- Long-Term Treatment Goals – Certain procedures may offer more durable long-term symptom relief, while others focus on symptom improvement with reduced recovery time or preservation of sexual function.
A personalised consultation is essential before proceeding with prostate enlargement treatment options. Treatment planning should consider symptom severity, prostate size, medical history, examination findings and the patient’s lifestyle and treatment goals.
Enlarged Prostate Treatment Cost in Singapore
The cost varies depending on the type of treatment, facility fees and complexity of care.
Medication Costs
Medication-based management generally involves:
- Consultation fees
- Ongoing medication costs
- Follow-up reviews
- Monitoring tests
Procedure and Surgery Costs
Procedural costs may vary based on:
- Type of procedure performed
- Hospital or clinic setting
- Anaesthesia requirements
- Duration of stay
- Equipment used
- Specialist expertise
Minimally invasive procedures such as UroLift and Rezum may differ in cost from traditional surgical procedures such as TURP or HoLEP.
The estimated enlarged prostate treatment cost depends on the treatment approach recommended, prostate size, procedural complexity, surgical facility and individual urinary symptoms or treatment goals.
MediSave and Insurance
Patients seeking BPH treatment or enlarged prostate treatment may wish to clarify whether MediSave or insurance coverage applies to their treatment, particularly when procedures are performed for medically significant urinary symptoms, urinary retention or complications related to prostate enlargement.
Important considerations may include:
- MediSave eligibility for medically indicated procedures
- Insurance claim coverage and pre-authorisation requirements
- Day surgery or hospitalisation benefits
- Estimated out-of-pocket expenses
- Follow-up consultation, medication or investigation costs
Coverage and claim eligibility may vary depending on the type of treatment recommended, such as medication, TURP, HoLEP, UroLift or Rezum, as well as whether the procedure is performed in a clinic or hospital setting.
During the consultation, our specialist can advise on the expected treatment plan, procedural setting, estimated costs and potential financing considerations based on the patient’s urinary symptoms, prostate size and preferred treatment approach.
A consultation at URODOC allows suitable treatment options and associated costs to be discussed in greater detail.
Recovery After BPH Treatment
Recovery after surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed, the size of the prostate and the patient’s overall health and healing response.
Typical recovery milestones may include:
- First few days: Mild urinary discomfort, temporary burning during urination, urinary frequency or small amounts of blood in the urine may occur during the early recovery phase. Some patients may also experience temporary fatigue or mild pelvic discomfort following treatment.
- 1–2 weeks: Many patients can return to office-based work and light daily activities during this period, depending on the treatment performed and overall comfort levels. Urinary symptoms often begin improving gradually, although temporary urgency or frequency may still occur in some patients.
- Around 3–4 weeks: Recovery continues progressing, and many patients can gradually resume exercise and heavier physical activities after our specialist review.
- Around 4–6 weeks: Recovery is generally more complete, and urinary symptoms usually continue stabilising. Patients undergoing procedures such as TURP, HoLEP or Rezum may continue noticing gradual improvement in urinary flow and quality of life over time.
Recovery After Medication
Patients taking medication generally continue normal activities immediately, although symptom improvement may occur gradually.
Recovery After Minimally Invasive Procedures
Recovery after UroLift or Rezum is often relatively quick.
Temporary symptoms may include:
- Mild burning during urination
- Increased urinary frequency
- Temporary urgency
- Small amounts of blood in urine
Most patients resume light activities relatively quickly.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery after enlarged prostate surgery procedures, such as TURP or HoLEP, may involve:
- Temporary catheter placement
- Mild discomfort
- Temporary urinary urgency or frequency
Full recovery timelines vary, but generally improve progressively over several weeks.
Return to Normal Activities
Most patients gradually resume:
- Walking and light activity within days
- Office work within one to two weeks, depending on treatment
- Strenuous exercise after specialist clearance
Sexual Function Concerns
Many patients are understandably concerned about how treatment may affect sexual function.
Different treatments may carry varying risks of:
- Retrograde ejaculation
- Temporary ejaculatory changes
- Erectile dysfunction
Minimally invasive procedures may preserve sexual function in selected patients, although outcomes vary individually.
A detailed discussion with our specialist helps clarify expected treatment outcomes and potential side effects.
Effectiveness of BPH Treatments
Modern BPH treatment approaches can significantly improve urinary symptoms and quality of life for many patients.
Symptom Improvement
Patients often experience:
- Stronger urine flow
- Reduced urinary frequency
- Improved bladder emptying
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced urgency
Long-Term Outcomes
Procedures such as HoLEP and TURP are associated with durable long-term symptom relief for many patients. Minimally invasive therapies may also provide effective improvement with shorter recovery periods in selected individuals.
Recurrence
The likelihood of symptom recurrence depends on:
- Treatment type
- Prostate size
- Ongoing prostate growth
- Individual patient factors
Some patients may eventually require repeat treatment or ongoing monitoring over time.
Why Choose Our Prostate Specialist?
At URODOC, patients seeking BPH treatment and enlarged prostate treatment receive confidential and personalised care focused on improving urinary function, comfort and quality of life.
Dr Lee Fang Jann is a urologist and renal transplant surgeon with broad-based expertise in the management of urological disorders, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urinary symptoms and minimally invasive prostate enlargement treatments. He has a particular interest in modern surgical and minimally invasive approaches for enlarged prostate management.
Dr Lee received training in minimally invasive, laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques in the United States, France and India. He is also a Fellow of the International College of Robotic Surgeons.
Patients benefit from:
- Experienced urology care for enlarged prostate and urinary symptoms
- Personalised treatment recommendations based on prostate size, symptom severity and lifestyle needs
- Access to modern treatment options, including medication, minimally invasive therapy and surgery
- Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation to assess urinary obstruction and bladder function
- Evidence-based treatment planning focused on symptom relief and long-term urinary outcomes
- Professional and confidential consultations in a patient-centred environment
- Clear guidance regarding recovery expectations, potential side effects and follow-up care
Book a Private and Professional Consultation for Enlarged Prostate
Weak urine flow, urgency and repeated nighttime urination may indicate worsening prostate enlargement. Early evaluation helps guide treatment decisions based on symptom severity, prostate size and lifestyle needs. Assessment allows timely diagnosis and discussion of appropriate treatment options.
At URODOC, we understand that enlarged prostate symptoms can become increasingly frustrating and disruptive if left untreated. Patients receive personalised care using evidence-based medical, minimally invasive and surgical treatment approaches tailored to their condition and recovery goals.
Dr Lee Fang Jann 
Dr Lee is a urologist and kidney transplant surgeon with a broad-based expertise of all urological disorders
He has subspecialty focus on men’s health and male infertility, and special interest in minimally invasive prostate enlargement therapy and kidney stone treatment. Dr Lee has received numerous awards for service excellence such as the Service With A Heart Award (2006-2008, 2011) and the Singapore Health Quality Service Award (2016).
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (Singapore)
- Membership of The Royal College of Surgeons (Edin)
- Master of Medicine (Surgery) (Singapore)
- Fellowship of the Academy of Medicine (Urology)
- Clinical fellowship at Oxford Transplant Centre in the UK
Prior to entering private practice, Dr Lee served in the public sector for 16 years at SGH, where he initiated dedicated clinics evaluating and treating patients with complex men’s health and fertility issues. He also led the Renal Transplant Program and laparoscopic donor nephrectomy service as Surgical Director.
Apart from clinical work, Dr Lee is active in academia and believes in the importance of grooming the next generation of doctor. He was Senior Clinical Lecturer at NUS’ Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and currently, Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Duke-NUS Medical School. Dr Lee is also regularly invited to share his experiences locally and regionally through lectures, workshops and surgical demonstrations.
Our Clinic Locations
Farrer Park Medical Centre, #08-05
1 Farrer Park Station Rd, Singapore 217562
Mon – Fri: 8:30am to 5:30pm
Sat: 8:30am to 12:30pm
3 Mount Elizabeth, #11-16 Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
Mon – Fri: 8:30am to 5:30pm
Sat: 8:30am to 12:30pm
Frequently Asked Questions About BPH Treatment
What is the optimal treatment for an enlarged prostate?
The most suitable treatment depends on symptom severity, prostate size, age and personal priorities. Options range from medication to minimally invasive procedures and surgery.
Can BPH be treated without surgery?
Yes. Mild to moderate symptoms may sometimes be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Minimally invasive procedures may also provide alternatives to traditional surgery for selected patients.
How much does BPH treatment cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of treatment, hospital fees and complexity of care. MediSave and insurance coverage may apply for selected procedures.
How long is the recovery after prostate surgery?
Recovery timelines vary by procedure. Many patients resume light activities within days to weeks, although full recovery may take longer, depending on the treatment performed.
Does treatment affect sexual function?
Different treatments carry different risks regarding ejaculation and erectile function. Our specialist consultation at URODOC can help clarify which options may best align with individual priorities.