Sponsored by
These are two minimally invasive procedures designed to relieve symptoms without removing any tissue
Are You Experiencing These Symptoms:
Getting up more at night to urinate?
Weaker urine stream?
Rushing to the toilet or going more frequently than before?
If you answered yes, you may have BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) – a common, age-related enlargement of the prostate that can cause frustrating urinary symptoms.
What Is BPH?
BPH is the non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland, which surrounds the urethra (the tube we urinate through). As the prostate enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra and obstruct urine flow, leading to:
Increased frequency and urgency
Night time urination (nocturia)
Weak stream and difficulty starting urination
The Good News: Minimally Invasive Treatment Options Are Available
If your doctor has diagnosed you with BPH, it’s important to know that surgery isn't the only option. There are two minimally invasive procedures designed to relieve symptoms without removing any tissue:
Looking for unbiased, fact-based news? Join 1440 today.
Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.
iTind and UroLift: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | iTind (Temporary Implant) | UroLift (Permanent Implant) |
|---|---|---|
How it Works | Reshapes the prostate by applying internal pressure for a few days | Uses small permanent clips to pull tissue away from the urethra |
Anesthesia (Australia) | General anaesthetic | General anaesthetic |
Duration | Implant stays for 5–7 days, then is removed | Clips remain in place permanently |
Recovery | Quick recovery; mild discomfort may occur | Quick recovery; mild pressure sensation may occur |
Hospital Stay | Short stay; return needed for device removal | Same-day discharge in most cases, sometimes an overnight stay is required |
Tissue Removal | None | None |
Best For | Men with high bladder neck or small median lobe | Men with smaller prostates and side (lateral) tissue obstruction |
iTind
Pros:
✅No permanent implant left in the body
✅Minimally invasive with quick recovery
✅Preserves sexual function (no impact on erection or ejaculation)
✅Natural reshaping of the prostate tissue
✅Suitable for men with a high bladder neck or small median lobe
✅Tissue-sparing – no cutting or removal
Cons:
⚠️Temporary device must stay in place for 5–7 days
⚠️Requires a follow-up visit for removal
⚠️Mild discomfort or irritation may occur post-procedure
⚠️Not suitable for all prostate shapes or sizes
⚠️Shorter duration of effect compared to more invasive options
UroLift
Pros:
✅Immediate symptom relief for most men
✅Minimally invasive with same-day discharge in most cases, sometimes an overnight stay may be required
✅No tissue removal required
✅Preserves sexual function
✅Permanent solution – clips stay in place to keep urethra open
✅Often does not require a catheter afterward
Cons:
⚠️Permanent metallic implants remain in the prostate
⚠️Not ideal for men with very large prostates or a high bladder neck
⚠️May cause temporary pressure or discomfort behind the scrotum
⚠️Limited suitability if median lobe protrudes into the bladder
⚠️Rare risk of needing further treatment if symptoms return
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Each treatment suits different prostate shapes and conditions. Your urologist will recommend the most suitable option based on:
Prostate size
Type and location of obstruction
Your personal health goals
Both treatments are safe, effective, and among the least invasive options available today.
We're Here to Help
At the Prostate Clinic we’ve supported many men on their personal journeys to better prostate health. Our team is here to offer you support, guidance, and expert care at every turn. If you ever have questions, no matter how big or small, we’re here to help!