HoLEP Laser Prostate Surgery in Turkey: What International Patients Should Know
Prof. Dr. Basri ÇakıroğluOnaylı Uzman
Üroloji & Robotik Cerrahi Uzmanı | Hisar Hospital Intercontinental
HoLEP is the size-independent, low-bleeding gold standard for enlarged prostate. Here is how the procedure, hospital stay, recovery and travel planning work for patients coming to Istanbul from abroad.
Table of Contents
Why Men Travel for HoLEP
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects more than half of men over 50. In many countries the wait for prostate surgery is measured in months, and HoLEP — the technique international guidelines now consider a gold standard — is available only in a limited number of centres. Turkey combines high-volume laser and robotic urology with short waiting times, JCI-accredited private hospitals and direct flights from Europe, the UK, the Gulf and the CIS. That is why Istanbul has become one of the most visited cities for prostate surgery.
What Exactly Is HoLEP?
HoLEP stands for Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate. Through the urethra — with no external incision — the surgeon uses a high-power holmium laser to separate the enlarged inner prostate tissue from its capsule in one piece, much like peeling an orange from the inside. The tissue is then pushed into the bladder, fragmented with a morcellator and removed. Because the entire adenoma is taken out, the result is durable and the chance of needing a second operation years later is very low.
HoLEP Compared with TURP and Open Surgery
Who Is a Good Candidate?
HoLEP is considered when medication no longer controls symptoms or is not tolerated, and when complications have appeared: urinary retention (a catheter), recurrent infections, bladder stones, bleeding, or a large residual volume that threatens the kidneys. Men who want a definitive, single-session solution with the lowest re-treatment rate are typical candidates. A very small prostate with mainly irritative symptoms may be better served by other options, which is why every patient's reports are reviewed first.
Remote Evaluation Before You Travel
Most of the planning happens before you book a flight:
1. Send your urine flow test, ultrasound (prostate volume, residual urine), PSA and any previous reports via WhatsApp or e-mail.
2. Prof. Dr. Çakıroğlu reviews them and, if necessary, arranges a short video call.
3. You receive a written plan: whether HoLEP is appropriate, the expected length of stay and which medications to stop before surgery (blood thinners are managed individually).
4. Only then are travel dates fixed.
A Typical Stay in Istanbul
Total: 4-5 days in Istanbul for most patients. A companion is welcome but not required.
Recovery at Home
Follow-Up from Abroad
Your first follow-up is done before you leave. Afterwards, a urine test and flow measurement can be performed by your local doctor at 4-6 weeks and the results shared with us; a video consultation is available whenever needed. Yearly PSA and check-ups continue at home, as the outer prostate capsule remains.
Questions to Ask Any Centre Abroad
Clear answers to these questions matter more than the price quoted.
This article is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Treatment decisions are made after an individual evaluation of your reports and examination.
Related Treatment
Prostate Diseases & Laser Therapies
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many days do I need to stay in Istanbul for HoLEP?
- Typically 4-5 days: consultation and tests on day 1, surgery on day 2 with one night in hospital, catheter removal within 24-48 hours, and a final check before flying home. Long-haul flights are usually possible 3-4 days after surgery.
- Can I have HoLEP if I take blood thinners?
- HoLEP is among the safest prostate operations for patients on anticoagulants because the laser seals vessels as it cuts. Whether and when to pause your medication is decided individually before you travel.
- Is HoLEP suitable for a very large prostate?
- Yes. Unlike TURP, HoLEP is size-independent and is routinely performed on prostates of 150-200 ml, avoiding open surgery.
- Will HoLEP affect my sex life?
- Erectile function is generally preserved. Most men experience retrograde ejaculation (semen goes into the bladder), which is harmless and does not change orgasm, but is important for men who plan to have children.
- How is follow-up handled after I return home?
- The first check is done in Istanbul before departure. Later tests can be done by your local doctor and shared with us; video consultations are available at any time, and the pathology report is sent electronically.
Sources & Guidelines
Looking for an Expert Opinion or Consultation?
You can schedule an appointment or get second opinion on surgical options with Prof. Dr. Basri Cakiroglu.
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