Urology

UroLift Procedure in Seomyeon, Busan

UroLift (prostatic urethral lift) is a minimally invasive BPH treatment that places small implants to hold enlarged prostate lobes away from the urethra, opening the urinary channel without cutting or heating tissue. In Seomyeon, Busan, urology clinics that offer it typically perform it in about 15–30 minutes under local anesthesia or light sedation, often as a same-day procedure.

Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:

October 2026
Clinic in Seomyeon, Busan

What is UroLift?

UroLift is a prostatic urethral lift. Through a thin scope passed into the urethra, the urologist deploys small implants that act like tie-backs, pulling the enlarged side lobes of the prostate apart to widen the channel. Because no tissue is removed or burned, recovery is usually quick and the risk of sexual side effects is lower than with traditional surgery.

Who is it for?

UroLift tends to suit men who:

  • Have bothersome BPH symptoms despite medication, or cannot tolerate side effects
  • Want to preserve ejaculation and erectile function
  • Have a prostate within the size range suitable for implants
  • Prefer a short procedure with fast recovery

It is generally less suitable for very large prostates, a prominent obstructing middle lobe in some cases, active urinary infection or urinary retention needing a different approach. Your urologist confirms anatomy with ultrasound and cystoscopy.

What happens at the clinic

  1. Assessment: symptom score, urine test, PSA, transrectal ultrasound for prostate volume, flow test and residual urine scan.
  2. Cystoscopy: confirms the shape of the prostate and whether implants will work.
  3. Procedure day: local anesthetic gel and sometimes sedation; the scope is inserted and implants are placed, typically several per side depending on length.
  4. Recovery: you rest briefly and pass urine before leaving; a short catheter may occasionally be used.
  5. Follow-up: symptom and flow checks a few weeks later.

Recovery and aftercare

Burning, urgency, frequency and blood in the urine are common for a few days to two weeks. Drink fluids, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a short time, and follow your doctor's advice about resuming sex. Many men return to normal activities within a few days, and symptom relief often begins within two weeks.

Risks and side effects

Possible issues include discomfort when urinating, pelvic pain, urinary infection and temporary bleeding. Some men eventually need retreatment or another BPH procedure as the prostate continues to grow. Implants can occasionally complicate later surgery, so mention them to any future urologist.

Choosing a clinic for UroLift in Seomyeon

  • Ask how many UroLift procedures the urologist performs and how patients are selected.
  • Ask how the result compares with TURP or HoLEP for your prostate size and middle-lobe anatomy.
  • Confirm whether cystoscopy is done before the procedure day to check suitability.
  • Ask how retreatment or later surgery would be handled.
  • Request a written aftercare plan, including when to call with bleeding or fever.

For visiting patients

Allow time for pre-assessment, the procedure and an early check. Seomyeon is a single Line 1 ride from Busan Station, convenient for travellers coming by KTX.

Key facts

  • Treats: urinary symptoms of BPH in suitable prostate sizes
  • Procedure time: about 15–30 minutes
  • Anesthesia: local anesthesia with or without sedation
  • Incisions: none; performed through the urethra with a cystoscope
  • Catheter: often not needed, or only briefly
  • Downtime: usually a few days
  • Sexual function: designed to preserve ejaculation

Frequently asked questions

Is UroLift painful?

Most men tolerate it well with local anesthetic and sometimes light sedation. Afterward, burning and urgency when urinating are common for a few days and usually ease within two weeks.

How long does UroLift last?

Many men keep symptom improvement for several years, but the prostate can continue to grow, and some later need retreatment or another procedure. Ask your urologist about expected durability for your anatomy.

UroLift or TURP: which is better?

UroLift offers faster recovery and better preservation of ejaculation; TURP generally provides greater and more durable flow improvement. The best option depends on prostate size, shape and your priorities.

Will I need a catheter after UroLift?

Most men do not need a catheter, or only for a short time. If you have difficulty urinating immediately afterward, a temporary catheter may be placed.

Is UroLift suitable for a very large prostate?

Usually not. UroLift works best within a certain prostate size range. Very large glands are often better treated with HoLEP or other enucleation surgery.

Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.