Prostatic Urethral Lift (UroLift)

UroLift is a minimally invasive treatment for urinary symptoms caused by benign prostate enlargement. Specially designed implants gently lift prostate tissue away from the urethra to improve flow without cutting, heating, or removing tissue.

What is UroLift?

UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure that widens the channel through the prostate by holding back the tissue that blocks the flow of urine. Small permanent implants are placed through the urethra to lift the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urinary passage, creating a more open and stable channel.

Unlike traditional surgery, UroLift doesn’t remove or destroy tissue, so recovery is faster and there’s no need for cutting or heating the prostate. UroLift is supported by long-term clinical evidence showing rapid improvement in urinary symptoms, better flow, and a reduced need for medicines. One of its key advantages is that it preserves sexual function, including ejaculation and erections, which can be affected by other treatments for benign prostate enlargement.

UroLift is typically suitable for men with small to moderate prostate enlargement who want to avoid long-term medication or the side effects of more invasive surgery. However, not all prostate shapes or sizes are suitable, so a detailed assessment with a urologist is needed before treatment can be planned.

At Welbeck, our consultant urologists are experts in relieving the symptoms of benign prostate enlargement, and use advanced imaging and diagnostics to determine whether UroLift is the right option for you. You’ll receive your care in our dedicated Urology centre, and our team will provide you with personalised support before and after your procedure to ensure your recovery is smooth and your symptoms improve.

More information

Before the procedure, your urologist will review your symptoms, examine the prostate, and arrange any necessary tests, such as flow studies, ultrasound, or MRI, to confirm whether UroLift is the right treatment for you.

UroLift can be carried out under local anaesthetic or sedation, depending on your preference and overall health.

During the procedure, your urologist will pass a small telescope through the urethra to the prostate. Special instruments are used to deploy the UroLift implants, which gently pull back the obstructing prostate tissue on each side to create a wider channel. Most men need around 4 implants, although this can vary depending on the size and shape of the prostate. 

The procedure typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes. After, you’ll be able to recover in private, comfortable surroundings supported by our nursing team. Most men can pass urine straight away after the procedure, and don’t need a catheter. 

Once you feel well enough, you’ll be able to go home the same day, with personalised aftercare advice and a plan for follow-up care. You’ll need someone to collect you if you’ve had sedation, and you shouldn’t drive for 24 hours.

UroLift is considered very safe, with serious complications being rare; however, all procedures have some risks. Your consultant will discuss these with you during your consultation. 

Possible risks include:

  • mild burning or discomfort when passing urine

  • blood in the urine

  • increased urinary frequency or urgency

  • temporary pelvic discomfort

  • urinary retention that may require a short-term catheter

  • infection

UroLift implants are permanent, but can be removed or replaced if needed.

Preparation for UroLift is usually minimal, but your urologist will give you clear instructions. This may include advice on medicines, fasting, and arranging for someone to collect you afterwards if you’re planning to have sedation. 


​​Recovery after UroLift is usually quick. Most men go home within a few hours, can walk around immediately, and return to normal daily activities within a few days.

Mild discomfort, urgency, or small amounts of blood in the urine are common for a few days and usually settle within 1 week. Drinking plenty of water can help. You should avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sexual activity for 2 weeks, or until advised by your consultant.

Most men return to all activities within 3 to 4 weeks. Your urology team will arrange follow-up appointments to check on your progress and ensure your symptoms are improving as expected.

Please contact our Urology centre for pricing information.


At Welbeck, our consultant urologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.


To book a UroLift, you must be referred by either your GP or a urologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a Welbeck urologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Our locations

Loading

London

1 Welbeck Street
Marylebone
London
W1G 0AR

More information

Frequently asked questions

UroLift provides long-lasting relief for many men. Studies show that around 70% to 80% of men continue to benefit for more than 5 years. A small proportion, approximately 13% within 5 years, may need additional treatment, but most enjoy sustained symptom improvement.

If your symptoms return or you don’t get enough relief from UroLift, most other treatments can still be performed. Options such as iTind, Rezum, laser prostate surgery, including GreenLight, or TURP remain available. Your urologist will advise you on which approach is most suitable.


No. UroLift implants are safe for MRI scans when standard clinical settings are used. The implants may create a small shadow on the images close to the prostate, but this rarely affects the scan. If you need an MRI in the future, simply let the radiographer know you have UroLift implants.


No. The implants sit inside the prostate, and you won’t be able to feel them once healing has taken place. They’re made from medical-grade materials and stay in place permanently without affecting daily activities, exercise, or sexual function.


Enquire