Enlarged prostate, medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is one of the most common conditions affecting men as they age. Many men experience symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting the urine stream, weak flow, dribbling, nighttime urination, and a constant feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. These symptoms not only interrupt daily life but gradually affect comfort, sleep quality, and overall well-being.
When medications fail to provide relief or when symptoms become moderate to severe, the most trusted and widely performed procedure recommended by urologists worldwide is TURP Surgery — also known as Transurethral Resection of the Prostate. It remains the gold standard for effectively treating an enlarged prostate and restoring healthy urinary function.
This detailed and lengthy blog explains what TURP is, why it is done, how the surgery works, who needs it, recovery expectations, advantages, risks, and why choosing an experienced urologist is essential for successful outcomes.
Understanding Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped gland located just below the bladder. As men age, the prostate naturally grows in size, and in many cases, this enlargement begins to press against the urethra — the tube that carries urine out of the body. When this pressure increases, it obstructs the normal flow of urine, leading to a wide range of urinary symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
Difficulty starting urination
Weak or slow urine stream
Frequent urination, especially at night
Sudden and urgent need to urinate
Dribbling after urination
Feeling of incomplete emptying
Urinary retention (in severe cases)
While medications such as alpha-blockers or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors may help, many men eventually require a permanent solution when symptoms become persistent or severe.
What Is TURP Surgery?
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) is a minimally invasive surgery that removes the enlarged portion of the prostate blocking the urethra. Instead of making an incision on the abdomen, the surgeon inserts a thin instrument called a resectoscope through the natural urinary passage (urethra). Using a small electrical loop, the surgeon shaves off excess prostate tissue, opening the urinary channel and improving urine flow.
Because TURP is performed through the urethra without external cuts, recovery is quicker, complications are fewer, and patients usually experience dramatic relief from symptoms.
When Is TURP Surgery Recommended?
TURP is advised when:
Medication does not relieve symptoms
Urination becomes extremely difficult
Frequent urinary infections develop
The bladder is not fully emptying
Kidney function starts to deteriorate due to obstruction
Bladder stones or bleeding occur because of prostate enlargement
Quality of life is heavily affected
It is one of the safest and most effective procedures for moderate to severe BPH.
How TURP Surgery Works – Step-by-Step
1. Pre-Surgery Assessment
The patient undergoes urine tests, blood tests, prostate evaluation, ultrasound, and sometimes uroflowmetry to assess urine flow rate. The urologist also reviews medical history and any medications.
2. Anesthesia
TURP is generally performed under spinal or general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
3. Resectoscope Insertion
A resectoscope is gently passed through the urethra up to the prostate.
4. Tissue Removal
Using a tiny electrical loop, the surgeon carefully removes the enlarged prostate tissue obstructing the urethra. This is done with great precision to protect surrounding structures.
5. Irrigation & Cleaning
Sterile fluid is used to flush out the removed tissue pieces, ensuring the urinary pathway is cleared.
6. Catheter Placement
At the end of surgery, a temporary catheter is placed to help urine drain and to reduce bleeding. It is usually removed within 1–3 days.
Benefits of TURP Surgery
TURP has remained the gold standard for decades because of its high success rate and long-term results.
1. Rapid Symptom Relief
Most patients notice a dramatic improvement in urine flow within days after catheter removal.
2. Long-Lasting Results
The effect of TURP lasts many years and, in most cases, eliminates the need for medications.
3. No External Cuts
Because TURP is performed through the urethra, there are no external scars or stitches.
4. Short Hospital Stay
Patients often return home within 1–2 days.
5. Improved Quality of Life
Better bladder emptying, fewer nighttime trips to the bathroom, and reduced urinary discomfort greatly enhance daily life.
Recovery After TURP – What to Expect
Hospital Stay
Most patients stay in the hospital for a day or two until the catheter is removed.
Mild Burning or Frequency
Temporary burning, urgency, or frequent urination is normal as the urinary channel heals.
Activity Restrictions
Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, sexual activity, and strenuous exercises for a few weeks.
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water helps flush the bladder and aids healing.
Follow-Up
Regular check-ups ensure that healing is smooth and symptoms improve steadily.
Risks & Considerations
TURP is very safe, but possible risks include:
Temporary bleeding
Infection
Retrograde ejaculation (common but harmless)
Rare risk of incontinence
Need for a repeat TURP in long-term cases (uncommon)
An experienced urologist helps minimize complications and ensures optimal results.
Alternative Treatments to TURP
While TURP remains the gold standard, other treatments exist:
Laser prostate surgery (HoLEP, Greenlight)
Rezum water vapor therapy
UroLift implants
Medication management
However, TURP continues to be the preferred option for many men with significant enlargement and blockage.
Why Choosing the Right Urologist Matters
The success of TURP depends heavily on the experience of the urologist performing it. An expert ensures:
Precise tissue removal
Minimal bleeding
Correct catheter management
Faster recovery
Reduced complications
Centers specializing in prostate and urinary disorders offer advanced equipment, skilled teams, and a safe surgical environment.
Conclusion
TURP surgery is one of the most trusted and effective treatments for an enlarged prostate. With its minimally invasive approach, proven safety, and long-lasting results, it offers men the chance to regain normal urinary function and improve their overall quality of life.
If you are experiencing difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, recurrent infections, or persistent prostate-related discomfort, consulting a urologist about TURP may be the first step toward long-term relief and a healthier bladder.
FAQ
1. What is TURP surgery?
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) is a minimally invasive procedure where excess prostate tissue blocking urine flow is removed through the urethra without any external incisions.
2. Who needs TURP surgery?
Men who have moderate to severe urinary symptoms due to enlarged prostate—such as weak urine flow, repeated infections, urinary retention, or difficulty emptying the bladder—are ideal candidates for TURP.
3. Is TURP a painful procedure?
No. TURP is performed under spinal or general anesthesia, so the patient feels no pain during the surgery. Mild discomfort may occur during recovery but is manageable.
4. How long does recovery take after TURP?
Most patients return home within 1–2 days. Light activities can be resumed soon, while complete recovery—including improved urine flow—usually happens within a few weeks.
5. Are there side effects after TURP?
Temporary burning, mild bleeding, or frequent urination may occur as the urinary tract heals. Retrograde ejaculation is common but harmless. Serious complications are rare.
6. How long do TURP results last?
TURP provides long-lasting relief, often for many years. Most patients no longer require medication after the procedure and enjoy significant improvement in urinary symptoms.