Benign prostate enlargement is a common condition in men, often causing troublesome urinary symptoms such as a weak stream, difficulty starting to urinate, and the frequent urge to pass urine. In more severe cases, men may need a catheter—a small tube inserted into the bladder—to help empty it, and may also experience recurrent urinary infections, blockages, or blood in their urine. Sadly, many men endure these problems for years before seeking proper treatment.

The main symptoms of an enlarged prostate include difficulty starting to urinate, a weak or interrupted flow, feeling that the bladder is not fully emptied, dribbling after urination, and needing to urinate more often, including at night. These symptoms typically develop slowly and tend to worsen with age, particularly after 70.

HoLEP, or Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate, is a modern surgical approach that removes most of the prostate through a telescope inserted into the urethra. Unlike traditional surgery, which involves cutting through the skin to remove the prostate, HoLEP offers the same high success rates with less invasiveness and faster recovery. Many patients enjoy long-term results, with a low likelihood of needing further surgery—often over 25 years of relief.

For most men, HoLEP is truly a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ procedure. Men frequently report dramatic improvements in urinary flow, often resembling the ease of their teenage years. At Spire Manchester, Mr Matthew Liew leads the North West Private HoLEP service, where patients are typically treated within weeks of assessment. Hospital stays are usually just one night, with a recovery period of around three weeks. Since launching the service last year, over 100 men have undergone HoLEP, many describing the results as life-changing and wishing they had undergone the procedure sooner.

Men can expect a 99% catheter-free rate, with fewer than 0.5% experiencing complications such as urinary incontinence.

Excitingly, a new ejaculatory-sparing HoLEP technique has been introduced, particularly suited to younger men who wish to preserve sexual function while benefiting from HoLEP’s long-term effects. Early results show excellent symptom relief, preserved ejaculation, stable erectile function, and low rates of repeat procedures.

HoLEP, suitable for prostates of all sizes, offers men a highly effective, long-lasting solution for benign prostate enlargement, making it one of the best prostate operations available today.

Book your consultation today to see whether HoLEP is suitable for you.

Read the article as featured in October’s Glossy Magazine.