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GreenLight Laser for BPH Treatment
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in men as they age. It occurs when the prostate gland grows larger, pressing against the urethra and blocking the flow of urine. This leads to symptoms like frequent urination, especially at night, a weak urine stream, and difficulty starting or stopping urination. While lifestyle changes and medications can manage BPH symptoms, sometimes a more direct approach is needed. For men looking for a minimally invasive solution with less downtime, GreenLight Laser TURP is an excellent option.
At Lazare Urology, Dr. Jon Lazare offers GreenLight Laser treatment to men suffering from BPH. This advanced procedure uses laser energy to remove excess prostate tissue and relieve symptoms. It offers many benefits over traditional treatments like TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) and is an ideal choice for men who may be on blood thinners or have other health concerns. In this blog post, we’ll explore what GreenLight Laser TURP is, how it compares to other treatments, and why it might be the right choice for you.
What Is GreenLight Laser TURP?
GreenLight Laser TURP is a minimally invasive treatment used to remove excess prostate tissue that’s causing a blockage in the urethra. It’s considered a safer, quicker alternative to traditional TURP, a surgical method that has been used for many years to treat BPH.
During GreenLight Laser TURP, a small fiber is inserted into the urethra and directed to the prostate. The laser is then activated, emitting high-energy light that vaporizes the excess tissue obstructing urine flow. This treatment reduces the size of the prostate and restores normal urine flow, providing immediate relief to many BPH patients.
Because the GreenLight Laser is highly precise, it targets only the tissue causing the blockage, which means there’s less damage to surrounding tissue. This leads to a faster recovery time and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery.
Benefits of GreenLight Laser TURP
- Quicker Recovery Time
One of the most significant advantages of GreenLight Laser TURP is the quick recovery time. Traditional TURP requires a hospital stay and can involve a lengthy recovery period with more pain, bleeding, and a longer time away from work. In contrast, GreenLight Laser TURP is typically done on an outpatient basis. Most patients go home the same day and can return to their normal activities within a few days to a week. This makes it an ideal choice for men who want a faster, less disruptive recovery. - Less Bleeding
GreenLight Laser TURP is known for causing significantly less bleeding than traditional TURP. The laser energy coagulates the blood vessels during the procedure, reducing the risk of bleeding. This is especially beneficial for men who are on blood thinners for other health conditions. Men who undergo traditional TURP might face the risk of excessive bleeding, requiring a transfusion or longer recovery times. GreenLight Laser, on the other hand, reduces this risk and helps make the procedure safer. - Ideal for Men on Blood Thinners
Many men who suffer from BPH also take blood thinners to prevent blood clots or manage heart conditions. For these men, traditional TURP can pose a risk of serious bleeding. GreenLight Laser TURP, however, is a safer option because it minimizes bleeding. This makes it an ideal choice for men who are on medications like warfarin or aspirin, allowing them to get the relief they need without worrying about complications from blood thinning. - Minimally Invasive with No Incisions
Unlike traditional surgery, GreenLight Laser TURP does not require any external incisions. The procedure is done through the urethra, which means no cuts or stitches. This minimizes the risk of infection and results in a quicker, more comfortable recovery process. Most men experience little pain following the procedure, and any discomfort usually resolves within a few days.
GreenLight Laser vs. Traditional TURP
Traditional TURP has been the standard for BPH treatment for many years. While effective, it comes with a few downsides:
- Longer Recovery Time: Traditional TURP often requires a hospital stay and a longer recovery period, which can be challenging for older men or those with additional health conditions.
- More Bleeding: There’s a higher risk of bleeding with traditional TURP, which may require a blood transfusion or more invasive procedures.
- Higher Risk of Complications: Because traditional TURP involves cutting away prostate tissue, there’s a greater risk of complications like infection, urinary incontinence, and erectile dysfunction.
GreenLight Laser TURP provides a solution to these issues. The procedure is less invasive, with a quicker recovery time and a lower risk of complications. Men who undergo GreenLight Laser TURP are often able to return to their normal activities much faster than those who choose traditional TURP.
GreenLight Laser vs. UroLift
UroLift is another treatment option for BPH. Unlike GreenLight Laser TURP, UroLift is a non-surgical procedure that uses small implants to hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra. This allows urine to flow more freely without removing any tissue.
While UroLift is effective for some men, it may not be as suitable for patients with a significantly enlarged prostate. The GreenLight Laser, on the other hand, is better for patients with larger prostates or more severe BPH symptoms. UroLift also requires multiple follow-up visits, whereas GreenLight Laser TURP typically only requires one procedure.
Why Choose GreenLight Laser TURP at Lazare Urology?
Dr. Jon Lazare is a trusted Urologist in Brooklyn, specializing in a variety of treatments for BPH, including GreenLight Laser TURP. With his extensive experience and state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Lazare can help you choose the right treatment based on your symptoms, prostate size, and overall health. At Lazare Urology, you’ll receive personalized care tailored to your unique needs.
If you’re suffering from BPH and looking for a treatment that offers quicker recovery, less bleeding, and fewer risks, GreenLight Laser TURP could be the right option for you. Contact Lazare Urology today to learn more about this advanced treatment and see if it’s the best choice for your health.
Final Thoughts
GreenLight Laser TURP offers a safer, quicker, and more effective solution for men suffering from BPH. With benefits like minimal bleeding, a fast recovery, and suitability for men on blood thinners, it’s becoming the go-to treatment for many patients. If you’re ready to explore your options for BPH treatment, Dr. Lazare and the team at Lazare Urology can help you get back to a healthier, more comfortable life.
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