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ThuLEP · Thulium Laser Enucleation of Prostate in Bangkok
ThuLEP uses a continuous-wave thulium laser to enucleate obstructing prostate tissue from inside the capsule · the same anatomical approach as HoLEP but with different laser characteristics. Like HoLEP, it works on any prostate size and delivers durable, long-lasting results.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Noppon Arunkajohnsak (Win), Board-certified Urologist
9 years of experience
Our solutions
Why patients choose ThuLEP
What Our Patients Say
The difference was night and day. I hadn’t felt a strong stream like that in years.
I was nervous about surgery, but the relief was almost instant. Sleeping through the night feels incredible again.
Book your consultation today.
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How to Prepare for ThuLEP
Stop blood thinners
5-7 days before surgery only if cleared by your prescribing doctor.Urine culture
Treat any UTI before surgery.Prostate imaging
Ultrasound or MRI to confirm size and rule out cancer.Pre-anesthesia assessment
Bloods, ECG, chest X-ray as indicated by age and comorbidities.Fast pre-surgery
No food or water for 6-8 hours before the procedure.Plan for overnight stay
Arrange transport home the following day.
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What Happens During ThuLEP
Anesthesia
Spinal or general anesthesia. Most patients choose spinal.Cystoscope insertion
A thin scope is passed through the urethra.Stage 1 · Thulium enucleation
The thulium laser separates the obstructing prostate lobes from the surgical capsule, the same plane an open surgeon would use.Stage 2 · Morcellation
A morcellator inside the scope cuts the enucleated tissue into fragments and suctions them out.Catheter placement
Urinary catheter stays in place for 24-48 hours.Pathology
All removed tissue is sent for analysis to rule out incidental prostate cancer.
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Explore Our Topics
About ThuLEP
Specialist Laser BPH Team
Our urology team performs both ThuLEP and HoLEP · we choose the right laser based on your prostate characteristics, not the technology we happen to have.
Comprehensive BPH Diagnostics
We evaluate prostate size, residual urine, uroflowmetry, and PSA before recommending laser enucleation versus alternatives.
Same-Day Imaging and Workup
Prostate ultrasound, urine flow test, and consultation in a single visit.
Private, Discreet Recovery
Confidential care, WhatsApp recovery support, English-language follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
How is ThuLEP different from HoLEP?
Both ThuLEP and HoLEP are highly effective procedures that enucleate prostate tissue from inside the capsule, offering similar long-term durability and excellent outcomes for BPH. The key difference lies in the laser technology used. HoLEP utilizes a pulsed holmium laser, while ThuLEP employs a continuous-wave thulium laser. Your surgeon's preference for one over the other often depends on the specific characteristics of your prostate and their experience with each laser's unique tissue interaction properties.
Will I lose ejaculation after ThuLEP?
Retrograde ejaculation is a common side effect of ThuLEP, occurring in approximately 70-80% of patients, which is similar to HoLEP. This means semen travels backward into the bladder during orgasm. If preserving forward ejaculation is a primary concern for you and your prostate is small to medium in size · typically under 80 grams · alternative treatments like Rezum or UroLift may be more suitable options to discuss with your urologist.
What prostate size is ThuLEP best for?
ThuLEP, much like HoLEP, is highly versatile and has no upper size limit, making it an excellent option for even very large prostates. It is particularly preferred for prostates over 80 grams, where traditional treatments like TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) and newer minimally invasive options like Rezum become significantly less effective or carry higher risks. This ensures comprehensive tissue removal for lasting relief.
How long is the hospital stay?
Most patients undergoing ThuLEP can expect a relatively short hospital stay. Typically, you will stay for one night and be discharged the morning after your surgery. The urinary catheter, which is placed during the procedure, is usually removed within 24-48 hours post-surgery, depending on your recovery and the surgeon's assessment of your urinary function.
How much does ThuLEP cost in Bangkok?
The total cost of your ThuLEP procedure in Bangkok can vary based on several factors. These include your choice of anesthesia · the specific length of your hospital admission · and whether any additional diagnostic tests or procedures are required. For a precise and personalized quote tailored to your individual needs and treatment plan, we recommend booking a consultation with our specialist.
What are the success rates and long-term outcomes for ThuLEP?
ThuLEP boasts excellent success rates, with studies showing significant improvements in urinary flow and symptom scores for over 90% of patients. Long-term outcomes are very positive · with low re-treatment rates of less than 5% over 5-10 years, comparable to HoLEP. You can expect durable relief from BPH symptoms, including reduced urgency, frequency, and improved bladder emptying, providing a lasting solution to your prostate issues.
What anesthesia options are available for ThuLEP?
For ThuLEP, you will typically receive general anesthesia, meaning you will be completely asleep during the entire procedure. In some cases, regional anesthesia · such as a spinal or epidural block · may be an option, where you are awake but numb from the waist down. Your anesthesiologist will discuss the best and safest option for your specific health profile and preferences during your pre-operative assessment to ensure your comfort and safety.
What should I expect at the ThuLEP consultation?
Your consultation will involve meeting with our expert urologist to discuss your symptoms and medical history. You'll undergo a physical exam and may have diagnostic tests like a PSA blood test, urine flow study, or prostate ultrasound. The urologist will explain ThuLEP, review alternative treatments, and help you decide if it's the right choice for you. This is your opportunity to ask questions and develop a personalized treatment plan.
What are the logistics for international patients traveling for ThuLEP?
We recommend arriving in Bangkok at least 2-3 days before your scheduled surgery for pre-operative assessments. You can typically fly home 7-10 days after your procedure, once your catheter is removed and your urologist confirms stable recovery. Post-operative follow-up can often be managed remotely via secure video calls or WhatsApp, ensuring you receive continued care and support even after returning home.
DURABLE BPH SURGERY FOR LARGE PROSTATES
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Dr. Noppon Arunkajohnsak (Win)
- Experience
- 9 years
Dr. Noppon is a board-certified urologist trained at Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University. With over 9 years of experience, he focuses on urological consultation and men's health, providing discreet, evidence-based, patient-centred care.

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