Prostate enlargement, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition affecting men as they age. When symptoms become severe, surgery may be necessary to improve the quality of life. India has gained a reputation for providing high-quality healthcare at significantly lower costs compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking enlarged prostate surgery. Depending on the type of treatment, enlarged prostate surgery cost in India ranges from USD 2,500 to USD 10,000.
Many hospitals in India, especially in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, offer world-class facilities and highly skilled surgeons. These institutions often have international accreditations, ensuring that they meet global standards of care. India offers a compelling option for individuals seeking affordable and high-quality prostate surgery.
By carefully considering the factors discussed in this blog, you can make an informed decision and find a suitable healthcare provider that meets your needs and budget.
What is Enlarged Prostate?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly referred to as an enlarged prostate, is a prevalent condition in men over the age of 50. While non-cancerous, it can cause symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, weak urine flow, and an increased need to urinate at night. If left untreated, it can lead to complications like bladder stones, urinary tract infections, or kidney damage. Fortunately, surgery is one of the most effective solutions when medication or lifestyle changes fail to alleviate symptoms.
Stages of Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate can be categorized into the following four stages.
- Stage I – Very mild symptoms but with no significant obstruction
- Stage II – No significant obstruction but symptoms that bother the routine of the person
- Stage III – Significant obstruction with severe symptoms that bother the routine of the person
- Stage IV – Significant obstruction with developed complications of prostate enlargement
What are the Causes of an Enlarged Prostate?
Enlarged prostate primarily affects men as they age. The exact cause is not entirely clear, but several factors are believed to contribute:
- Aging: As men grow older, the likelihood of developing an enlarged prostate increases. It is most common in men over 50, and the risk rises significantly with age.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal imbalances [changes in testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT)] play a significant role in prostate growth. As testosterone levels decline with age, DHT may accumulate, causing prostate cells to grow.
- Family History: Additionally, a family history of prostate problems or an enlarged prostate can increase a man’s likelihood of developing an enlarged prostate.
- Lifestyle Factors: Furthermore, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and a diet high in red meat and fat have been linked to an increased risk of developing an enlarged prostate.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, are associated with a higher risk of developing an enlarged prostate. Medications used to treat these conditions can also contribute to symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate?
An enlarged prostate can cause a variety of urinary symptoms due to its location near the urethra and bladder. Symptoms may vary in severity and if left untreated, they may worsen over time.
Some of the common symptoms of an enlarged prostate may include the following:
- Frequent Urination: The need to urinate more often, especially at night (nocturia), is one of the hallmark symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
- Urgency to Urinate: Feeling a sudden, strong need to urinate that may be difficult to control.
- Weak Urine Flow: A slow or weak stream of urine, often resulting in a prolonged time spent urinating.
- Difficulty Starting Urination: Trouble initiating the flow of urine, even when feeling the urge to urinate.
- Dribbling: Urine continues to dribble or leak after finishing urination.
- Incomplete Emptying: A sensation that the bladder has not fully emptied, leading to more frequent trips to the restroom.
- Straining to Urinate: Needing to push or strain to start or maintain the urine flow.
- Intermittent Urine Stream: The urine flow may stop and start intermittently during urination.
While these symptoms are primarily related to urinary difficulties, severe cases of BPH can lead to complications such as urinary retention, bladder infections, and kidney damage. It is essential to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms are noticed, as timely intervention can prevent further complications.
What are the Treatment Options for Enlarged Prostate in India?
About half the men with an enlarged prostate eventually have symptoms that are bothersome enough to need treatment. While an enlarged prostate cannot be cured, drugs or surgery can often relieve its symptoms. The symptoms do not always worsen.
An enlarged prostate can be managed by:
- Watchful waiting (regular follow-up with your doctor)
- Drug therapy
- Surgery
Talk to your healthcare provider about the best choice for you. Your symptoms may change over time, so inform your doctor about any new changes.
Watchful Waiting
Men with mild symptoms of an enlarged prostate who do not find them bothersome often choose this approach. Watchful waiting means getting annual checkups. The checkups can include certain tests. If the symptoms start bothering the individual and affect his daily routine, then a treatment regimen is started.
Drug Therapy
There are two main types of drugs used. One relaxes the muscles near the prostate while the other shrinks the prostate gland. Evidence shows that taking both drugs together may work best to keep the symptoms of an enlarged prostate from getting worse.
Surgery
India offers a range of surgical options for treating an enlarged prostate. The choice of surgery depends on the size of the prostate, the patient’s overall health, and the severity of symptoms.
Some of the most common surgical procedures available are:
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is considered the gold standard for treating moderate to severe symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Indeed, in this minimally invasive procedure, a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra to remove excess prostate tissue blocking urine flow. Moreover, recovery time is usually short, and it is highly effective in symptom relief.
Laser Surgery (HoLEP and GreenLight)
Additionally, laser surgery is a newer option involving the use of high-energy lasers to remove overgrown prostate tissue. Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) and GreenLight laser therapy are popular choices. Moreover, laser procedures are associated with less bleeding, faster recovery times, and a lower risk of complications.
Prostatectomy
For larger prostates or in cases where other procedures are not effective, a prostatectomy (removal of the prostate gland) might be recommended. This can be done either as an open surgery or via laparoscopic (robot-assisted) techniques. Laparoscopic surgeries, including the robotic-assisted Da Vinci method, offer precision and minimal invasiveness.
UroLift System
UroLift is a newer, less invasive treatment. In this procedure, small implants are placed to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, so it does not block the urethra. This procedure is suitable for men with mild to moderate symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
How to Prevent Yourself from Getting an Enlarged Prostate?
Some tips for the prevention of an enlarged prostate are:
Primary Prevention
- Avoiding delay in urination
- Reduce excess body weight
- Exercise regularly
- Consume a healthy diet
- Avoid alcohol consumption
Secondary Prevention
- Avoid drinking lots of fluids at once
- Avoid certain medications (decongestants or antihistamines in over-the-counter cold and sinus treatments)
- Keep yourself warm
- Learn Kegels exercise (pelvic strengthening exercises)
- Avoid stress and nervousness
What is the Cost of Enlarged Prostate Surgery in India?
The cost of enlarged prostate surgery in India can vary based on the type of procedure, the hospital, and the city. Depending on the type of treatment, enlarged prostate surgery cost in India ranges from USD 2,500 to USD 10,000.
Below is a general overview of the cost range:
| Type of treatment | India | Turkey | USA | Germany |
| Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) | USD 2,500 – USD 5,000 | USD 3,000 – USD 6,000 | USD 10,000 – USD 20,000 | USD 8,000 – USD 15,000 |
| Laser Prostate Surgery (HoLEP or GreenLight) | USD 3,000 – USD 6,000 | USD 4,000 – USD 7,500 | USD 12,000 – USD 25,000 | USD 9,000 – USD 18,000 |
| Prostatectomy (Open or Robotic) | USD 5,000 – USD 10,000 | USD 7,000 – USD 12,000 | USD 15,000 – USD 35,000 | USD 10,000 – USD 25,000 |
| UroLift (Minimally Invasive) | USD 4,000 – USD 7,000 | USD 5,000 – USD 8,500 | USD 8,000 – USD 15,000 | USD 7,500 – USD 13,000 |
These prices include hospital charges, surgeon fees, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative care. These costs can vary depending on the hospital, surgeon, complexity of the case, and the city in which the procedure is performed. The prices in the USA and Germany are generally higher due to the higher cost of healthcare in those regions.
Why Choose India for Enlarged Prostate Surgery?
India has become a top destination for medical tourists seeking high-quality prostate surgery at affordable rates. Here are a few reasons why patients opt for treatment in India:
- Advanced Medical Facilities: India is home to world-class hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly skilled urologists and surgeons.
- Experienced Surgeons: Indian surgeons have extensive experience in performing both traditional and minimally invasive prostate surgeries.
- Cost-Effective Treatment: Enlarged prostate surgery cost in India is significantly lower than in Western countries, often at one-third to one-fourth the price.
- Short Wait Times: Indian hospitals typically offer shorter wait times for surgeries, allowing international patients to receive timely treatment.
- Comprehensive Care: Patients in India benefit from thorough pre-surgical consultations, advanced diagnostic tests, and attentive post-surgery follow-ups.
Top Hospitals for Enlarged Prostate Surgery in India
India boasts numerous hospitals that are recognized globally for their urology departments. Some of the top hospitals offering enlarged prostate surgery include:
- Apollo Hospital
- Fortis Hospital
- Medanta – The Medicity
- Max Super Speciality Hospital
- Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
These hospitals are known for their excellence in urology and offer a comfortable and seamless experience for international patients.
Conclusion
If you’re considering surgery for an enlarged prostate, India offers a compelling combination of advanced medical care and affordability. Indeed, with state-of-the-art facilities, skilled surgeons, and cost-effective treatment packages, patients can undergo surgery without compromising quality. Whether you’re looking for a minimally invasive procedure or more traditional options, the affordable enlarged prostate surgery cost in India ensures world-class care for your condition.
For those seeking to undergo surgery in India, consulting with your chosen hospital and exploring all your options is essential. Moreover, the right treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and offer relief from the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
FAQs
What is the best surgery for an enlarged prostate in India?
The best surgery for an enlarged prostate depends on your specific condition and preferences. Among popular options, TURP, HoLEP, and laser surgery stand out. Therefore, consulting with a urologist is essential to determine the most suitable procedure for you.
Is surgery safe for an enlarged prostate?
Prostate surgery is generally considered safe when performed by experienced surgeons in reputable facilities. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks. Discuss these with your doctor to make an informed decision.
What is the success rate for prostate surgery?
The success rate for prostate surgery is generally high, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their symptoms. However, individual results may vary.
Can you live a normal life after prostate surgery?
Yes, you can typically live a normal life after prostate surgery. Most patients can resume their daily activities within a few weeks. However, some may experience temporary side effects, such as incontinence or erectile dysfunction.
How many hours is prostate surgery?
The duration of prostate surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure and the complexity of your case. It typically ranges from 1 to 3 hours.
Can you pee after prostate surgery?
You may need a catheter inserted temporarily after prostate surgery to help drain urine. Once your bladder heals, you should be able to urinate normally.
How many days of rest is needed after prostate surgery?
Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for a few days after prostate surgery. Recovery time at home can vary, but you should be able to resume light activities within a few weeks.