Is HoLEP Surgery Safe and Effective for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Hello, this is Dr. Kyungho Ryu from Goldman Urology Clinic, Gangnam.

I understand how difficult it can be when symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) do not improve despite ongoing medication.

If there has been little to no improvement after long-term medical therapy, it is reasonable to consider procedural or surgical treatment options.

There are several treatment methods available for BPH, including:

HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate)

UroLift

Rezum (water vapor therapy)

Choosing the most appropriate treatment depends on each patient’s individual condition.

Among these, HoLEP is a procedure that uses a holmium laser to separate and remove the enlarged prostate tissue from its outer capsule.

Unlike conventional laser treatments that vaporize tissue, HoLEP completely removes the obstructive prostate tissue, providing results similar to open surgery.

HoLEP is widely selected because it offers:

Fast recovery

Minimal bleeding

Effective symptom relief

Many patients are understandably concerned about the cost of surgery, especially those who are working or supporting their families.

In many cases, patients decide to proceed with surgery after experiencing persistent symptoms such as weak urine flow or frequent nighttime urination despite long-term medication.

The cost of HoLEP is generally more affordable compared to other surgical options because it is covered by national health insurance.

In Korea, the total cost typically ranges from approximately 2 to 3 million KRW.

If you have private health insurance, part of the cost may be reimbursed, so it is advisable to check with your insurance provider in advance.

Another advantage of HoLEP is that it is performed using an endoscopic approach, which means there is minimal pain and bleeding compared to traditional open surgery, while still achieving a comparable therapeutic outcome.

If you are considering treatment options for BPH, it is important to consult with a urology specialist at a clinic that offers multiple treatment modalities, including HoLEP, Rezum, and robotic waterjet surgery, to determine the most suitable approach.

Since the size and shape of the prostate vary from person to person, the optimal treatment method may differ depending on:

Symptom severity

Duration of the condition

Presence of complications

Selecting a personalized treatment plan is essential for achieving the best outcome.

I hope this explanation regarding HoLEP for BPH has been helpful.

Thank you.