Aquablation, UroLift or Rezum? Choosing a Minimally Invasive Option
By Dr. Ahmed Ali Alnaimi, Consultant Urological Surgeon
Men looking for an alternative to traditional surgery often come across three names: UroLift, Rezum and Aquablation. All three are minimally invasive, but they work very differently and suit different prostates.
UroLift (prostatic urethral lift)
Small implants hold the enlarged lobes apart, like tie-backs on a curtain, opening the channel without removing tissue. It is quick, often done as a day case, and preserves ejaculation well. It suits smaller to moderate prostates, and some men need further treatment in later years as the prostate continues to grow.
Rezum (water vapour therapy)
Steam is injected into the prostate tissue. The heat destroys targeted cells, which the body absorbs over the following weeks. Symptoms improve gradually rather than straight away, and many men need a catheter for several days while swelling settles. It suits small to moderate prostates.
Aquablation
A robot removes planned prostate tissue with a heat-free waterjet after the surgeon maps the treatment on live ultrasound. It needs a general or spinal anaesthetic and usually a short hospital stay, but it removes tissue during the procedure and treats a wide range of sizes, including large prostates, while aiming to preserve sexual function.
Comparing the three
- Prostate size: UroLift and Rezum suit smaller glands; Aquablation treats small to large glands
- Tissue removed: none with UroLift, absorbed over weeks with Rezum, removed during the procedure with Aquablation
- Anaesthetic: UroLift and Rezum can often be done with local anaesthetic or sedation; Aquablation needs general or spinal anaesthesia
- Speed of relief: quick with UroLift, gradual with Rezum, early with Aquablation as healing settles
- Long-term durability: the chance of needing further treatment differs between the three and is part of the discussion at your consultation
Making the choice
The right option depends on your prostate size and shape, your symptoms, your health and what matters most to you. A good decision starts with proper measurements, usually an ultrasound and a flow test. Dr. Ahmed Ali Alnaimi can talk you through all three and recommend the one that fits you best.
Every prostate, and every patient, is different. A consultation gives you a clear picture of your own options.
When Prostate Tablets Are No Longer Enough