Published with the inputs from Dr Krishna Mohan R, Senior Consultant, Advanced Robotic And Laser Urology,  Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode

HoLEP - Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate- Laser Surgery for Prostate-  is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) — an enlarged prostate that causes urinary problems in men. The surgery uses laser energy to remove excess prostate tissue, improving urine flow and relieving symptoms such as frequent urination, weak stream, or difficulty emptying the bladder.

What is Laser TURP surgery, and why is it done?

HoLEP is a modern alternative to traditional TURP surgery which uses current and not safe for cardiac patients. It uses laser energy to remove excess prostate tissue that blocks urine flow precisely. The procedure is done to treat urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate (BPH), such as frequent urination, weak stream, or interrupted flow. HoLEP removes most of the gland and recurrence after surgery is less. z

Who needs Laser TURP?

Men experiencing moderate to severe urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate that don’t respond to medication may benefit from Laser TURP. It’s often recommended for those seeking a less invasive procedure with minimal bleeding and quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery. Laser surgery is safe for cardiac patients and neurology patients on blood thinners and pacemakers.  HoLEP is good if prostate gland is above 60-80 cc. 

How is Laser TURP performed?

During the procedure, a thin tube equipped with a laser fiber is inserted through the urethra (the natural urinary passage). The laser energy vaporizes or cuts away excess prostate tissue, restoring normal urine flow. The surgery is performed under spinal or general anesthesia and usually takes between one and two hours.

What are the advantages of Laser TURP compared to traditional TURP?

Laser TURP offers several important benefits:

• Less bleeding during and after surgery
• Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
• Lower risk of complications
• Safe for patients on blood thinners

It delivers similar long-term results to conventional TURP while being gentler and more precise.

• Regrowth of prostate is less with Laser procedure
• If there is a stone in the kidney or Bladder it can removed with the same surgery 
• This procedure can reduce hospital stay

What are the possible risks or side effects of Laser TURP?

Although HoLEP is generally safe, some patients may experience temporary side effects such as mild burning during urination, temporary difficulty urinating, or retrograde ejaculation (semen flowing backward into the bladder). Serious complications like infection or urinary incontinence are rare, especially when performed by experienced urologists.

What is the recovery time after Laser TURP?

Usually, the patients are discharged from the hospital within 24–48 hours after the procedure. A urinary catheter is typically removed within one or two days. Light physical activity can be resumed in a few days, while full recovery usually occurs within 2–4 weeks. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity and sexual intercourse until cleared by their doctor.

What are the long-term outcomes of Laser TURP?

Laser TURP provides long-lasting relief from urinary symptoms and greatly improves quality of life. The procedure has a success rate above 90%, with most patients remaining symptom-free for many years. Regular follow-up with your urologist helps maintain long-term results and monitor prostate health.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If urinary symptoms are affecting your comfort or daily routine, our experienced urology team at Baby Memorial Hospitals can help determine whether Laser TURP is right for you.

📞 Call us or book an Appointment Online today.