UroLift Review – What Is It, Does It Work and Is It Safe?

About UroLift

UroLift is marketed as a treatment for an enlarged prostate which is called BPH, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

BPH is common and affects 40 million American men. Approximately 40% of men in their fifties and 70% of men in their sixties have BPH. BPH greatly affects men’s quality of life.

According to the manufacturers, the UroLift System breaks the cycle of medications and relieves the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

It has been suggested that BPH medication causes sexual dysfunction, dizziness, and fatigue. Therefore, with UroLift you can enjoy a normal life.

UroLift Pros & Cons

What are the Components of the UroLift Device?

According to a study in Medical Devices: Evidence and Research^[1], it is a permanent implant of a nitinol capsular tab, stainless steel urethral end piece and a polyethylene teraphthatlate monofilament.

UroLift Review – Health Insiders Images

How Does It Work – The Science Behind Urolift

The UroLift System treatment is accomplished at a doctor’s office using implants to open the obstruction and create a normal urine flow.

The UroLift Device is placed in the urethra to access the enlarged prostate. UroLift Implants lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue and increase the opening of the urethra.

In a study by European Urology^[2], men who received the UroLift responded significantly better than those who had a TURP, a transurethral resection of the prostate.

Customer Questions and Answers

Q: What is the failure rate of UroLift?
A: According to Urology Case Reports^[3], the failure rate of the UroLift is 7% at 2 years and 14% at 4 years.

Q: How long does a UroLift last?
A: According to Texas Urology Specialists, studies show UroLift lasts approximately 3 years but may last longer.

Q: Is the UroLift procedure painful?
A: According to Advanced Urology, pain and sensitivity while urinating during recovery is common.

Q: Can the Urolift system be applied again when it fails to work?
A: The UroLift procedure can be repeated, or men can undergo a traditional laser procedure. It’s also important to note that the UroLift procedure doesn’t interfere with prostate cancer treatment.

Q: Is the UroLift procedure commonly covered by health insurance?
A: Yes! The UroLift System treatment is covered by Medicare and many private insurers. Contact your insurance provider for your specific coverage information.

Q: Would UroLift open up the urethra?
A: The device compresses the tissue and delivers tiny implants to lift and hold prostate tissue out of the way, thus opening the urethra.

Q: Who is a good candidate for the UroLift System treatment?
A: You may be a good candidate if you are a male, 45 years of age or older, and have symptoms relating to BPH. Speak with your urologist to see if the UroLift System treatment is right for you.

Q: Is there any scientific evidence that the UroLift Procedure works for the majority of patients?
A: According to the Yale Medicine report, “Clinical data shows that UroLift helps reduce obstructive prostate tissue and is considered a safe and effective for many men. It helps relieve lower urinary tract symptoms related to BPH, and it does not compromise a man’s sexual function. Having UroLift does not preclude a man from trying other treatment options in the future.”

Q: Is the 3-year time frame for the procedure to work worth the time and value?
A: The UroLift Implant is a permanent implant, and the treatment is intended to be permanent. Durability has been shown to at least 4 years in U.S. clinical data (1), and results will continue to be published as follow-ups continue.

UroLift Patient Reviews & Results

A review of 7 studies of 440 patients who had the UroLift procedure resulted in these findings:

All patients were over 50 with moderate symptoms. The procedure takes 50 minutes and half of the patients used local anesthesia.

Patients experienced a modest improvement in symptoms over 12 months of follow-up. The sexual function did not change. The results indicate the procedure is safe.

However, it was noted that those with very large glands and severe symptoms should consider using alternative therapies.

One review says, “The day of the procedure was the worst day of my life and I have had some doozies. The UroLift procedure was done in a hospital surgery possibly because I am 81yo. It is now four days later and I hope it gets better someday. My suggestion is if you are my age and can still pee, don’t do this.” ~ by Harold Parks

Where can you have this procedure performed and how much does it cost?

According to ClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research^[4] it costs approximately 6,000 dollars. The System is covered 100% by Medicare and most major private payors. The procedure can be performed by a urologist who has comprehensive training in the UroLift System.

The Bottom Line

The UroLift System is designed to treat an enlarged prostate called BPH, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, by placing implants to open the obstruction and increase urine flow. It is an alternative treatment to the medications that may cause dizziness, sexual dysfunction and fatigue.

Traditional surgery is therefore avoided, and it can be done in the doctor’s office with a fast recovery. It has been approved by the FDA and is considered safe and effective.

The procedure is usually covered 100% by Medicare and most major private payors.

READ NEXT – ProstaGenix and LifeSeasons Pros-T

Written by

Health Insiders Team

The Health Insiders Team takes pride in bringing you the latest in nutritional research, skincare, healthy living, and wellness hacks. Together our researchers... [Read Full Bio]

Reviewed by Diana Young, LD/N, ORDM, GC-C