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Aquablation is a modern, robotic water-jet therapy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) that offers a unique combination of precision and ejaculation preservation. If you're looking for a highly effective BPH treatment with a strong focus on maintaining sexual function, Aquablation might be an excellent option for you.
This innovative procedure uses a heat-free waterjet, guided by advanced imaging, to remove obstructing prostate tissue. It's designed to provide significant symptom relief while minimizing the impact on delicate structures responsible for ejaculation, a common concern with traditional BPH surgeries.
For international patients, Bangkok provides a compelling destination for Aquablation. You’ll find experienced urologists trained in this cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art facilities, and the potential for considerable cost savings compared to Western countries.
This guide will explain how Aquablation works, who it’s for, its unique benefits, how it compares to other BPH treatments, and what you can expect during recovery.
What Is Aquablation?
Aquablation is a minimally invasive, robotic procedure for BPH that uses a high-velocity water jet to precisely remove prostate tissue. It's performed with the AquaBeam Robotic System by PROCEPT BioRobotics.
How Aquablation works:
A thin cystoscope is inserted through the urethra to visualize the prostate.
An ultrasound probe is also inserted rectally to provide real-time imaging.
The surgeon uses these images to create a personalized treatment map of your prostate. This map precisely outlines the tissue to be removed and, crucially, the areas to be spared, such as the ejaculatory ducts.
The AquaBeam robot then executes the plan with sub-millimeter precision, delivering a heat-free water jet to ablate (remove) the designated prostate tissue.
The removed tissue is suctioned out and sent for pathology.
Who Is Aquablation For?
Aquablation is a suitable choice for men with moderate-to-severe BPH symptoms that haven't responded to medication. It's particularly appealing for those who prioritize the preservation of ejaculatory function and are seeking a highly precise, robotic treatment. It can be used for prostates of any size, including very large ones over 150g.
Benefits of Aquablation
1. Superior Ejaculation Preservation
Aquablation boasts the highest rate of ejaculation preservation among resective BPH surgeries, with approximately 90% of patients maintaining normal antegrade ejaculation. This is a significant advantage over TURP, HoLEP, and GreenLight laser, where retrograde ejaculation rates can be 20-40% or higher.
2. Robotic Precision
The AquaBeam robot executes the surgeon's personalized treatment plan with sub-millimeter accuracy. This precision helps ensure only the obstructing tissue is removed, protecting surrounding structures.
3. Heat-Free Ablation
Unlike laser or electrocautery procedures, Aquablation uses a water jet, meaning no heat is applied to the prostate. This helps preserve neurovascular structures, potentially leading to faster recovery and better preservation of sexual function.
4. Effective for All Prostate Sizes
Aquablation is effective for prostates of any size, including very large glands where other minimally invasive options may be less suitable or ineffective.
5. Durable Symptom Relief
Clinical studies show Aquablation provides significant and durable improvement in BPH symptoms and urinary flow rates. While newer than some established procedures, current data indicates excellent long-term outcomes.
How Aquablation Compares to Other BPH Surgeries
Aquablation offers a unique balance between efficacy and side effect profile. While TURP and HoLEP are highly effective and durable, they carry a higher risk of retrograde ejaculation. Minimally invasive procedures like Rezum and UroLift have lower risks of sexual side effects but are generally less effective for very large prostates and may have higher retreatment rates. Aquablation stands out by offering the robust tissue removal of a resective surgery with significantly better ejaculation preservation.
Recovery After Aquablation
Day 0: Surgery, one night in hospital.
Day 1-2: Catheter typically removed. You may experience some blood in your urine and discomfort.
Week 1-2: Return to light activities and desk work. Avoid strenuous activity.
Week 4-6: Gradual return to full activity, including sexual function. Symptom improvement continues over several weeks.
Risks and Side Effects
Like any surgical procedure, Aquablation carries some potential risks and side effects, though they are generally mild and temporary:
Temporary burning or discomfort during urination.
Blood in the urine, which usually resolves within a few weeks.
Urinary tract infection (UTI).
Temporary urge incontinence or leakage.
Very rare: Need for re-treatment, persistent incontinence.
Why Choose Menscape Bangkok for Aquablation?
Our urology team at Menscape Bangkok is dedicated to offering the most advanced and effective BPH treatments available. We have specialists trained in the Aquablation procedure and are equipped with the AquaBeam Robotic System. We believe in a personalized approach, ensuring you receive the right treatment recommendation for your specific condition and priorities. We understand the importance of preserving quality of life, including sexual function, and Aquablation is a key part of our comprehensive BPH care.
Book an Aquablation Consultation in Bangkok
If you're experiencing bothersome BPH symptoms and are interested in a highly precise, robotic treatment that prioritizes ejaculation preservation, Aquablation may be the right choice for you. Contact Menscape Bangkok today to schedule a consultation and receive a personalized treatment plan and quote.
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