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Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HOLEP) is a minimally invasive procedure to treat an enlarged prostate. It uses a laser to remove tissue, resulting in quicker recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery. This procedure has been gaining popularity in recent years as an alternative to the more invasive transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) procedure. With HOLEP, patients experience less bleeding, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to their normal activities.
At Circle Health Group, our expert consultants perform HOLEP surgery using state-of-the-art laser technology. Our team of highly trained professionals is committed to delivering personalised, patient-centred care to ensure the best possible outcomes. We understand the impact that prostate issues can have on your quality of life, and we're here to help you get back to enjoying the things you love.
Our team will take the time to understand your unique needs and concerns and provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan that's tailored to your specific situation. With Circle Health Group, you can trust that you're in expert hands and on your way to a better, healthier you.
For more information on HOLEP or other prostate treatments, our experienced urologists are here to help you. Call or book online today and you could have your initial consultation within 48 hours.
If you are experiencing prostate-related symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urges to go, or a weak urine flow, you may be suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This common condition affects many men as they age and can have a significant impact on your quality of life.
While BPH is benign and therefore not cancerous, it can cause discomfort and may require treatment to ease symptoms. If you have tried medication or other treatments without success, HOLEP may be the right procedure for you.
Some common symptoms of BPH that may lead to HOLEP surgery include:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Need to urinate at night (nocturia)
- Inability to completely empty the bladder
HOLEP is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to remove excess prostate tissue, allowing for better urine flow and relief from associated symptoms. Compared to traditional surgery, HOLEP can offer a faster recovery time, fewer complications, and minimal scarring. With our advanced laser technology, our team of specialist consultants at Circle Health Group can provide HOLEP surgery with precision and accuracy, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
HOLEP is primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is also referred to as benign prostate enlargement or benign prostate disease. BPH is a non-cancerous condition that affects many men as they age, and can cause uncomfortable and inconvenient symptoms. HOLEP can alleviate these symptoms and improve the quality of life for many patients.
HOLEP is also used as a treatment for related conditions, including:
- Bladder outlet obstruction: HOLEP can remove excess prostate tissue that is causing a blockage in the urethra, allowing urine to flow more freely
- Recurrent urinary tract infections: If an enlarged prostate is preventing complete bladder emptying, this can lead to urinary tract infections. HOLEP can help prevent these infections by removing the excess tissue that is causing the blockage
- Hematuria - Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. If this condition is caused by an enlarged prostate, HOLEP may be an effective treatment option
If you are experiencing symptoms related to an enlarged prostate or are struggling with a condition that may be treated with HOLEP, our team can help. We will work with you to determine the best course of action for your unique situation and provide care and support throughout your treatment and recovery.
At Circle Health Group, we understand that deciding to undergo HOLEP surgery can be a big one. That's why we take the time to ensure that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your care. Your first consultation with one of our specialist consultants is an important step in this process.
During your initial consultation, we will take a thorough medical history and conduct a physical exam to assess your condition. Depending on your specific situation, we may also recommend additional tests or scans to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment. This may include a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, a urinalysis, or an ultrasound of the prostate.
Your first consultation is an important opportunity for us to get to know you and understand your unique needs and concerns. We will take the time to answer any questions you may have about the HOLEP procedure, including the cost of HOLEP in the UK, how it compares to other treatments like TURP, and any potential long-term side effects or risks. We will also discuss the recovery process and the expected recovery time after the HOLEP procedure.
We understand that every patient is different, and we take a unique approach to every treatment. We will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that takes into account your individual needs and preferences
If you're considering HOLEP surgery, you may be wondering what to expect during the procedure. Here's an overview of what typically happens:
How long does it typically take?
The length of a HOLEP procedure can vary depending on the size of the prostate and the amount of tissue that needs to be removed. However, the procedure typically takes between one and three hours to complete.
What anaesthetic is used?
Most HOLEP procedures are performed under general anaesthesia, which means you will be unconscious during the procedure. However, some patients may be candidates for local anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia, which allows you to remain awake during the procedure while numbing the lower half of your body.
What actually happens during a HOLEP procedure?
During the HOLEP procedure, a laser is used to remove excess prostate tissue that is causing urinary symptoms. Your surgeon will insert a small scope through the urethra and into the prostate, allowing them to visualise the tissue that needs to be removed. We then use the laser to precisely remove the tissue, leaving the surrounding area unaffected.
Because HOLEP is a minimally invasive procedure, it typically results in less bleeding and a shorter recovery time than traditional surgery. However, the specifics of what happens during the procedure may vary depending on your personal situation.
After the HOLEP procedure, you will need to spend some time in the hospital to recover. The length of your hospital stay will depend on your individual situation, but most patients can go home within a day or two. You may experience some discomfort or pain after the procedure, which can typically be managed with medication.
It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully during the recovery period to ensure the best possible outcome. This may include avoiding certain activities or medications, as well as following a specific diet. You should also expect to have a urinary catheter for a few days after the procedure to help your bladder empty.
While the recovery process can vary depending on the individual, most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks. However, some patients may experience frequent urination after HOLEP surgery, as well as other side effects like incontinence. Your surgeon will work with you to minimise any risks and ensure the best possible outcome. If you have any concerns during the recovery period, don't hesitate to contact your consultant urologist for guidance.
HOLEP is a safe and effective procedure for treating an enlarged prostate, but like any surgery, it does carry some potential risks and complications. These may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Difficulty urinating
- Urinary incontinence
- Retrograde ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction
- Need for further treatment
While these risks may sound concerning, it's important to remember that they are relatively rare. Your healthcare provider will take all necessary precautions to minimise the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
- The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
- Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care
If you would like to learn more about HOLEP surgery, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in March 2023. Next review due March 2026.
- Holmium laser prostate surgery, Mayo Clinic
- HoLEP, REZUM and UroLift, Cambridge Urology Partnership
- Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), Cleveland Clinic
- Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – Holmium laser treatment, Prostate Matters
- Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), NHS Cambridge University Hospitals
- Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), Nuffield Health
- HoLEP: the gold standard for the surgical management of BPH in the 21st Century, NIH
