Recovering from prostate surgery can be daunting for many men, but modern procedures like HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) have made the journey far smoother. For those exploring BPH treatment options, HoLEP is increasingly considered the gold standard — offering faster recovery, minimal complications, and long-term relief from urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.
This guide explains what to expect after HoLEP surgery, how to manage your recovery effectively, and when to seek medical advice if something doesn’t feel right.
What Happens Right After HoLEP Surgery
After the surgery, you’ll typically spend a night or two in the hospital. A catheter is placed to help drain urine while your bladder heals. It’s normal to see some blood in your urine for the first few days — this is part of the natural healing process as tissue recovers from laser enucleation.
Once your catheter is removed, your doctor will monitor how well you can urinate on your own. Most patients experience immediate improvement in urine flow, though it may take a few weeks for everything to stabilize fully.
The First Few Weeks at Home
The first two to four weeks after HoLEP surgery are crucial for your recovery. Here’s what most urologists recommend:
- Hydrate regularly. Drink plenty of water to flush out the bladder and minimize irritation.
- Avoid heavy lifting. Straining can cause bleeding or slow healing.
- Watch for symptoms. A mild burning sensation when urinating is normal, but pain, fever, or clotting should be reported to your doctor.
- No sexual activity for at least 2–3 weeks, or until your urologist confirms it’s safe.
You may notice occasional urinary leakage or urgency, especially during coughing or sneezing. This usually improves as the bladder adjusts to new, unobstructed urine flow.
Regaining Urinary Control
Some men experience temporary incontinence after HoLEP surgery. This is due to the pelvic muscles adjusting after the obstruction is removed.
To help strengthen these muscles:
- Perform Kegel exercises daily to regain bladder control.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder.
- Schedule regular bathroom breaks to retrain your bladder pattern.
Most patients regain full control within a few weeks to a few months, depending on their overall health and pre-surgery condition.
Follow-Up Visits Are Essential
Your urologist will schedule follow-ups to assess how your bladder and urinary tract are healing. During these visits, they’ll check for:
- Post-void residual volume (how well you empty your bladder)
- Signs of infection or inflammation
- Any lingering symptoms that might indicate a slow recovery
These follow-ups are key to preventing complications and ensuring you get the full benefit of your BPH treatment.
Long-Term Benefits of HoLEP
Patients who undergo HoLEP often report life-changing improvements:
- Stronger, uninterrupted urine flow
- No need for ongoing medication
- Reduced risk of prostate regrowth
- Permanent relief from lower urinary tract symptoms
Unlike traditional TURP procedures, HoLEP removes the entire obstructing prostate tissue, which dramatically lowers the chances of recurrence.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While complications are rare, contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent or heavy bleeding
- Fever or chills
- Severe pain during urination
- Inability to urinate
These may indicate infection or a rare postoperative issue that needs immediate care.
Supporting Recovery Through Lifestyle
Your recovery doesn’t end when you leave the hospital — it’s also about adopting healthy habits that support your urinary system and prostate.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce bladder pressure.
- Stay active with gentle exercises like walking or yoga.
These steps not only aid recovery but also improve long-term urinary health and prevent future prostate issues.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from HoLEP surgery is generally smooth and straightforward, but following your doctor’s guidance is vital for the best results. With proper care, most men resume normal activities within weeks and enjoy lasting relief from urinary symptoms.
If you’re considering or recovering from BPH treatment, consult a urologist who specializes in advanced laser procedures. With their expertise, you can look forward to a faster recovery and a healthier quality of life.
