Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common conditions affecting men over 50.
It happens when the prostate slowly enlarges with age.
This growth can press on the urethra and disrupt normal urine flow.

Common symptoms include urgency, frequency, hesitancy, and a weak stream.
Many men also feel they cannot fully empty their bladder.
Symptoms often worsen over time, even when the prostate size is only moderate.

First-line treatment usually includes lifestyle changes and medication.
When these no longer help, surgery becomes the next option.
The aim of surgery is simple.
Open the prostatic urethra and restore a strong, steady flow of urine.

Traditional surgical options work well but can have drawbacks.
Larger prostates, especially over 80 grams, limit treatment choices.
These procedures may carry higher risks of incontinence and sexual side effects, including retrograde ejaculation.

A newer option called Aquablation is changing this space.
It removes excess prostate tissue using a high-pressure water jet rather than heat.
This matters because heat can damage surrounding nerves and structures.

According to Meghan A. Cooper, a urology consultant at Mayo Clinic, Aquablation fills an important gap.
It allows surgeons to treat larger prostates while preserving continence and sexual function.

The procedure uses real-time ultrasound to map the prostate.
Treatment is tailored to each patient’s anatomy and adjusted during surgery.
It takes about 45 minutes and requires no external incisions.

Most patients stay in the hospital overnight.
A catheter is usually needed for two to three days.
Normal activities often resume within two to three weeks.

Clinical studies are encouraging.
Urinary symptoms improve significantly.
Rates of retrograde ejaculation are under 10 per cent, compared with over 75 per cent in many older procedures.
Five-year retreatment rates remain below 3 per cent.

For many men, this heat-free approach offers a safer and longer-lasting solution.