UroLift®


What is UroLift®?
UroLift® is a minimally invasive treatment designed to alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. The procedure involves the use of the UroLift® System, which employs tiny implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way of the urethra, thereby relieving urinary obstruction. There is no cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue required, making it a straightforward procedure with less downtime for patients.
When is UroLift® Needed?
UroLift® is recommended for men experiencing moderate to severe urinary symptoms due to BPH who prefer a less invasive option compared to traditional surgery. The primary indications for considering the UroLift® procedure include:
- Persistent Symptoms: When symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, irregular flow, or nocturia (nighttime urination) persist despite medication or other non-surgical treatments.
- Quality of Life Impact: When symptoms of BPH significantly disrupt daily activities and sleep patterns, thus adversely affecting the patient’s quality of life.
- Preference for Non-surgical Options: For patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery due to medical reasons, or who wish to avoid potential side effects such as sexual dysfunction or incontinence.
Benefits of UroLift®
The UroLift® System offers several key benefits, making it a favourable option for treating BPH. These benefits include:
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Minimally Invasive
Unlike traditional surgical procedures for BPH, UroLift® does not involve cutting, heating, or removing prostate tissue. This minimally invasive approach results in less trauma to the body and a faster recovery.
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Rapid Symptom Relief
Many patients experience rapid improvement in urinary symptoms and overall quality of life shortly after the procedure. This is due to the immediate relief of urethral obstruction once the prostate lobes are lifted.
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No General Anaesthesia Required
The UroLift® procedure can often be performed under local anaesthesia in an outpatient setting, reducing the risks associated with general anaesthesia and allowing patients to return home the same day.
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Durability of Results
Clinical studies indicate that the improvements in urinary flow and symptoms can be long-lasting, with many patients experiencing benefits for several years post-procedure.
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No Need for Catheter in Most Cases
Unlike many other prostate surgeries, there is often no need for a post-operative catheter after a UroLift® procedure, which can be a major comfort and convenience factor for patients.
Preparing for UroLift®
Preparation for the UroLift® procedure involves several steps to ensure safety and the best possible outcomes. Here are the key aspects involved in the preparation process:
- Initial Consultation: The preparation process begins with a consultation where the urologist assesses the patient’s medical history, current medications, and the severity of BPH symptoms. This assessment typically includes a physical examination and may involve tests such as a urine flow study, prostate ultrasound, and possibly a cystoscopy to examine the bladder and urethra.
- Medication Review: Patients may need to adjust or temporarily discontinue certain medications before the procedure. This is particularly important for medications that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin or other anticoagulants, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Fasting: Patients are usually instructed to fast for several hours before the procedure if sedation or anaesthesia is planned.
The UroLift® Procedure
The UroLift® procedure is performed using a specialised device that places small implants to hold the prostate lobes apart. Here’s how the procedure typically unfolds:
Sedation and Preparation
The patient is given local anaesthesia and sedation to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The area is then sterilised, and a sterile drape is applied.
Cystoscopy
A cystoscope, a thin tube with a camera at the end, is inserted through the urethra to the prostate. This allows the urologist to view the prostate and urethra directly on a screen.
Implant Placement
Using the cystoscope, the urologist inserts the UroLift® device. Tiny implants are then deployed through the needle of the device, which lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way of the urethra.
Confirmation of Placement
Once the implants are in place, the urologist checks to ensure they are properly positioned to relieve the obstruction without impairing the urethra.
Completion
The cystoscope and all tools are removed. The whole procedure typically lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, and patients can often go home the same day without the need for a catheter.
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Potential Risks and Complications
While the UroLift® procedure is generally considered safe and effective, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications that patients should be aware of. These include:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Although rare, some patients may develop UTIs following the procedure, which can typically be treated with antibiotics.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur, especially if the prostate’s blood vessels are affected during the implant placement. This is usually self-limiting.
- Pain and Discomfort: Some men may experience pelvic or urethral pain following the procedure, often described as mild and temporary.
- Urinary Urgency: This can occur temporarily as the body adjusts to the implants. In most cases, this resolves on its own within a few weeks.
- Implant Migration or Failure: There is a small risk that the implants may move from their original position or fail to relieve symptoms effectively, potentially requiring additional intervention.
- Need for Re-treatment: While many men experience long-lasting relief, some may require additional treatments if symptoms return over time.
Recovery and Post-Procedure Care
Recovery from the UroLift® procedure is typically quick, with most men returning to their normal activities within a few days. Here are some key aspects of post-procedure care:
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Activity Restrictions
Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a short period post-procedure to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
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Monitoring Symptoms
Patients need to monitor their urinary symptoms and any signs of complications, such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection. Immediate medical attention should be sought if any of these occur.
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Pain Management
Mild pain or discomfort may be experienced, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The use of medication should be discussed with the urologist to ensure compatibility with other treatments.
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Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up visits are important to monitor the patient's recovery and the procedure's effectiveness. This typically involves a review of urinary flow and symptom scores to assess improvements.
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Long-Term Care
Although UroLift® provides durable results, ongoing monitoring is advised. Some patients might require additional follow-up procedures if symptoms recur or if the initial response to treatment diminishes over time.

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 (FAQs)
How Quickly Will I See Improvements in My Symptoms?
Most patients notice an improvement in their urinary symptoms within a few weeks after the procedure.
Is the UroLift® Procedure Permanent?
The results of UroLift® are durable, but not necessarily permanent. Depending on how their condition progresses, some patients may require retreatment over time.
Can the UroLift® Implants Be Removed?
Yes, the implants can be removed if necessary. However, this is rarely required as the procedure has a high rate of satisfaction and effectiveness.
What Are the Signs That I Should Contact My Urologist After the Procedure?
Contact your urologist if you experience severe pain, significant bleeding, difficulty urinating, or signs of infection, such as fever or chills.