For many men, waking multiple times during the night to urinate, experiencing a weak urinary stream, or constantly searching for the nearest restroom gradually becomes accepted as part of getting older. These symptoms, however, may be signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH.
BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate that becomes increasingly common with age. As the prostate enlarges, it can place pressure on the urethra and interfere with normal urine flow. Symptoms may include frequent or urgent urination, difficulty starting urination, a weak stream, incomplete bladder emptying, and nighttime trips to the bathroom.
One common misconception is that men must choose between taking medication indefinitely or undergoing major prostate surgery. Today, several minimally invasive options can provide meaningful symptom relief while helping reduce many of the side effects traditionally associated with more invasive prostate procedures.
Water vapor therapy, commonly known as Rezūm, uses controlled steam to treat excess prostate tissue that is obstructing urine flow. Over time, the body naturally removes the treated tissue, allowing the prostate to shrink and the urinary channel to open. Clinical studies have shown durable symptom improvement while preserving erectile and ejaculatory function for many patients.
UroLift®, also known as the Prostatic Urethral Lift, uses small implants to gently lift and hold enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra. Unlike treatments that remove or destroy prostate tissue, UroLift creates a more open urinary channel while maintaining the prostate tissue itself. It is particularly appealing for appropriately selected men concerned about maintaining sexual function.
Prostatic Artery Embolization, or PAE, takes a different approach. During this minimally invasive procedure, the blood vessels supplying the enlarged prostate are selectively treated, reducing blood flow to the prostate and allowing it to gradually shrink. PAE may be an option for certain men who want to avoid more invasive prostate surgery and has been associated with a lower risk of erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory problems compared with traditional surgical procedures.
An important advantage of these modern therapies is their focus on improving urinary symptoms while minimizing the impact on sexual function. Rezūm, UroLift, and PAE are all options that may help appropriate patients preserve erectile and/or ejaculatory function compared with more invasive prostate procedures. The best choice depends on prostate size and anatomy, symptom severity, medical history, and each patient’s individual priorities.
At Prestige Medical Group, Dr. Lamia Gabal now offers comprehensive BPH evaluation and treatment options including Rezūm, UroLift, and PAE. Many urologic evaluations and medically necessary BPH treatments may also be covered by insurance, depending on the patient’s individual insurance plan.
Men should not assume that urinary problems are simply something they have to live with. An evaluation by a urologist can help identify the cause of symptoms and determine which treatment approach is most appropriate.
Dr. Lamia Gabal is a board-certified urologist specializing in men’s and women’s sexual health and minimally invasive treatments. At Prestige Medical Group in Tustin, California, she is dedicated to helping patients achieve confidence, function, and overall well-being through advanced, personalized care.
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