Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP): Laser Treatment for Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

Understanding HoLEP

When men experience urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate, HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) may be recommended as a minimally invasive laser treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that commonly occurs with ageing. Explore the information below to better understand HoLEP, BPH, and the treatment process.

Key Takeaways:

HoLEP is a minimally invasive laser treatment for enlarged prostate (BPH), which may cause symptoms such as frequent urination, a weak urine stream, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. Assessment typically involves a review of medical history, physical examination, and appropriate imaging or prostate assessment. As the procedure does not require external cuts, it may offer benefits such as reduced bleeding risk and faster recovery compared with traditional surgery. At Hospital Picaso, care is led by consultant urologists including Dato' Dr Loh Chit Sin, Dr Badrulhisham Bahadzor, and Dr Fam Xeng Inn.

Before the Procedure

Your urologist will assess your suitability for HoLEP through:

• Medical history review
• Physical examination
• Urine and blood tests
• Imaging or prostate assessment
• Discussion of symptoms and treatment expectations

You will also receive detailed instructions regarding fasting and medication adjustments if required.

During the Procedure

HoLEP is performed under anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort.

During the procedure:

• A specialised laser instrument is inserted through the urethra
• Excess prostate tissue is separated using laser energy
• The removed tissue is extracted from the bladder
• No external incision is required

The procedure duration may vary depending on the size of the prostate and complexity of the case.

After the Procedure

Recovery experiences may differ between patients.

You may experience:

• Mild burning sensation during urination temporarily
• Increased urinary frequency during early recovery
• Mild blood in urine for a short period
• Temporary urinary urgency

Many patients experience improvement in urinary flow and symptoms after recovery. Your healthcare team will provide personalised aftercare guidance and follow-up appointments.

HoLEP may be considered for patients with:

• Moderate to severe urinary symptoms caused by BPH
• Enlarged prostate glands
• Urinary obstruction affecting daily life
• Recurrent urinary retention
• BPH-related bladder complications

Only a qualified urologist can determine whether HoLEP is the most appropriate treatment option for your condition. At Hospital Picaso's Urology Centre, our expert urologists provide specialised urology treatment for men, including Dr Badrulhisham Bahadzor, who has a special interest and extensive experience in HoLEP for the treatment of enlarged prostate (BPH). Every patient is carefully evaluated to determine the most suitable treatment approach based on their symptoms, prostate size, and overall health condition. 

If you are unsure which treatment may suit you, a urology health screening can help assess your prostate health before deciding on next steps.

About Hospital Picaso

Hospital Picaso, short for PJ Integrated Centre of Advanced Surgery and Oncology, is a premier cancer centre located in the heart of Petaling Jaya offering a full spectrum of advanced cancer treatment. As a leading centre for advanced surgery and integrated oncology in Malaysia, we are committed to delivering personalised medical solutions tailored to each patient’s journey.

Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including robotic operating theatres and specialised therapy centres, and supported by a team of dedicated multidisciplinary team, we are here to keep hope alive. At Hospital Picaso, we believe that recovery is a fight worth winning and no one should have to face it alone.