TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) is one of the most established and effective surgeries for treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), also known as enlarged prostate. It is widely considered the gold standard for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms who have not responded well to medications or minimally invasive treatments.
TURP improves urinary flow, reduces urgency, minimizes nighttime urination, and relieves discomfort caused by prostate obstruction. With modern technology, the procedure is safer, faster, and associated with shorter recovery times.
Bangkok is a top destination for TURP due to modern hospitals, advanced equipment, and highly experienced urologists.
This guide explains the TURP procedure, who it’s suited for, benefits, risks, and recovery expectations.
What Is TURP?
TURP is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed through the urethra, with no external incisions.
How TURP works:
A resectoscope is inserted through the penis
Excess prostate tissue obstructing urine flow is trimmed away
The urethra is reopened
Urine flow improves immediately
The removed prostate tissue is sent for pathology to rule out hidden prostate cancer.
Who Needs TURP?
TURP is recommended for men who have:
Moderate to severe BPH symptoms
Weak urine stream
Difficulty starting urination
Frequent urination
Nocturia (waking at night to urinate)
Urinary retention
Incomplete bladder emptying
Recurrent urinary infections
Bladder stones due to BPH
Failure of medications (Tamsulosin, Finasteride, etc.)
TURP is also recommended when the prostate size is too large for treatments like Rezum or UroLift.
Benefits of TURP Surgery
1. Dramatic Improvement in Urinary Flow
Up to 80–90% symptom relief.
2. Long-Lasting Results
TURP results often last 10–15 years or more.
3. No External Incisions
Performed entirely through the urethra.
4. Eliminates Blockage
Immediately restores strong urine stream.
5. Prevents Complications
Reduces risk of infections, stones, kidney damage.
6. Fast Relief
Many men notice improvement within 24–48 hours.
Types of TURP
1. Monopolar TURP (Traditional)
Effective but requires fluid irrigation.
2. Bipolar TURP (Modern)
Lower risk of bleeding
Shorter recovery
Safe for men with cardiac devices
Most major Bangkok hospitals use bipolar TURP.
The TURP Procedure — Step by Step
1. Pre-Surgery Assessment
PSA test
Prostate ultrasound
Urine tests
Uroflowmetry
General medical exam
2. During Surgery (60–90 minutes)
Performed under general or spinal anesthesia.
Steps:
Thin scope inserted through the urethra
Excess prostate tissue shaved away
Bleeding points cauterized
Urinary catheter inserted
Continuous bladder irrigation performed
3. Post-Surgery Care
Overnight hospital stay
Catheter typically removed in 1–2 days
Drink plenty of water
Avoid heavy lifting and sexual activity temporarily
Recovery Timeline
Day 1–3:
Catheter in place
Pink urine (normal)
Week 1–2:
Improved urinary flow
Mild burning sensation possible
Week 2–4:
Resume normal work
Avoid strenuous exercise
Week 6:
Resume sexual activity
Most symptoms resolved
3 months:
Full healing and optimal urinary function
Expected Results After TURP
Men typically experience:
Stronger urine flow
Less urgency
Less nighttime urination
Reduced straining
Better bladder emptying
Improved daily comfort
Risks & Safety Considerations
TURP is safe with low complication rates, but possible risks include:
Temporary bleeding
Infection
Retrograde ejaculation (common but harmless)
Temporary urinary incontinence
Scar tissue formation (rare)
These risks are lower with skilled surgeons and bipolar TURP technology.
Why Men Choose TURP in Bangkok
Highly trained urologists
State-of-the-art surgical facilities
Access to bipolar TURP and modern equipment
Lower cost than Western hospitals
Fast recovery and high success rates
Private, discreet men's health environment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is TURP painful?
Minimal discomfort; pain well controlled.
Will ejaculation change?
Retrograde ejaculation is common but does not affect sexual pleasure.
How long is hospital stay?
Usually 1–2 nights.
Will TURP affect erections?
Rare — erectile function usually preserved.
How long do results last?
Often 10–15 years.
Key Takeaways
TURP is the gold-standard treatment for moderate to severe BPH.
It significantly improves urine flow and quality of life.
Modern bipolar TURP minimizes risks and speeds recovery.
Bangkok offers high-level TURP care at excellent value.
Menscape provides discreet, male-focused urology consultation and referrals.
📩 Experiencing BPH symptoms? Book a private TURP evaluation at Menscape Bangkok.
