What plasma bipolar TURP is
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) removes the inner part of the prostate that squeezes the urethra. Plasma bipolar TURP is a modern version that uses bipolar energy in a saline (salt water) solution instead of the older monopolar method. It is done through the urethra with a thin instrument, so there is no cut in the skin.
Who it suits
TURP is a strong option for men whose BPH symptoms are moderate to severe, are not controlled by medicine, or have caused problems such as urinary retention, repeated infections, bladder stones or bleeding. It works across a wide range of prostate sizes. For smaller prostates where protecting ejaculation is a priority, Dr. Neal Patel may discuss UroLift instead.
The procedure
TURP is done in a hospital or surgery center under general or spinal anesthesia and usually takes about an hour. A catheter drains the bladder for a short time afterward. Many men go home the same day or the next morning.
Recovery
Expect some burning, urgency and blood in the urine for a few weeks while the area heals. Most men return to light activity within days and avoid heavy lifting and straining for a few weeks. Urine flow usually improves noticeably once healing is underway.
Benefits and trade-offs
TURP has decades of results behind it and gives durable relief for most men. The most common lasting change is retrograde ejaculation, where semen flows back into the bladder instead of out; this is not harmful but matters to some men. Erections are usually not affected. Dr. Neal Patel reviews the benefits, risks and alternatives, including medicine, UroLift and Aquablation, at your consultation.
Your next step
Call 678-344-8900 to book a BPH consultation with Dr. Neal Patel in Johns Creek or Cumming, or read about all enlarged prostate treatment options.
Where Dr. Neal Patel sees patients
Dr. Neal Patel sees patients from across metro Atlanta at two Advanced Urology offices:
- Johns Creek: 10730 Medlock Bridge Rd, Ste 110, Johns Creek, GA 30097
- Cumming: 4150 Deputy Bill Cantrell Memorial Rd, Ste 180, Cumming, GA 30040
His Advanced Urology team also sees patients in Decatur and Braselton. Call 678-344-8900 to book. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.
Preparing for your visit with Dr. Neal Patel
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, any prior urine, blood or PSA results, and the reports (or discs) from recent imaging. If you can, arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because a urine sample and a bladder scan are often part of the first visit. Write down your main questions so nothing is missed. A family member is welcome to join you. If you prefer Spanish or Korean, let the office know when you book so language support is ready.
Your chart is reviewed before you arrive, and insurance requirements for likely imaging or procedures are checked up front so approvals can move sooner. Before you leave, your orders, prescriptions and follow-up plan are reviewed with you, and you receive education materials tailored to your condition.
At the end of the visit you will receive a written summary in your preferred language that explains what was found, what was ordered and what happens next. Your primary care physician or referring doctor receives a clear update letter with findings, plan and next steps, so everyone caring for you stays informed. Dr. Neal Patel sees patients at the Johns Creek and Cumming offices; call 678-344-8900.
Reviewed by Dr. Neal Patel, MD, board-certified urologist. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.