Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common conditions affecting men as they age, and it can significantly impact quality of life. At Khan Urology Clinic, located in Seocho-gu, Seoul, patients receive advanced and specialized care under the expertise of Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young, a leading urologist who has dedicated over 40 years exclusively to the treatment of prostate diseases.

This article explores what BPH is, its symptoms, diagnosis, complications, and the treatment approach at Khan Urology Clinic, emphasizing the clinic’s reputation as one of Korea’s most trusted centers for prostate health.

Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia refers to the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which commonly occurs in men as they age. Hormonal changes, lifestyle factors, and natural aging processes can cause the prostate to grow abnormally. As the prostate enlarges, it presses against the urethra, making it difficult for urine to pass smoothly. This obstruction often results in lower urinary tract symptoms that worsen over time.

The condition is extremely common—by the age of 60, nearly half of men experience some degree of BPH, and the incidence rises with age. While benign, if left untreated, BPH can lead to significant discomfort, recurrent infections, or even kidney damage.

Common Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Recognizing the symptoms early allows patients to seek timely care. At Khan Urology Clinic in Seocho-gu, Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young emphasizes the importance of early consultation for any urinary difficulties. Common BPH symptoms include:

• Weak urinary stream (Hesitancy): A noticeable decrease in the force or thickness of the urine stream.

• Frequent urination (Frequency): The need to urinate more often than before, even during the day.

• Incomplete emptying (Residual urine sensation): Feeling as though the bladder has not emptied completely.

• Interrupted urination (Intermittency): The urine stream stops and starts several times during urination.

• Blood in urine (Hematuria): Red or pink-tinged urine, sometimes with visible clots.

• Nocturia: Waking up one or more times during sleep to urinate.

• Delayed urination (Straining): Taking a long time to start urinating even when the urge is strong.

• Urinary incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine, resulting in wet underwear.

• Acute urinary retention: A sudden inability to urinate despite having the urge, often after alcohol, medication, or fatigue.

• Urgency: A strong, sudden need to urinate that is difficult to control.

These symptoms vary in severity, but even mild cases can affect sleep quality, daily comfort, and overall health.

Complications of Untreated BPH

If BPH is ignored or left untreated, complications may develop, some of which are serious and require urgent care. At Khan Urology Clinic, patients are educated on the risks of neglecting prostate health:

• Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder infections.

• Bladder muscle changes, including reduced contractility and increased sensitivity.

• Acute urinary retention or worsening incontinence.

• Kidney problems, such as hydronephrosis or pyelonephritis due to urine backflow.

• Bladder stones and hematuria, caused by stagnant urine.

By providing early and tailored treatments, Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young prevents these complications, ensuring patients maintain both bladder and kidney health.

Diagnostic Approach at Khan Urology Clinic

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful BPH management. At Khan Urology Clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul, Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young uses a comprehensive diagnostic system, combining advanced technology with decades of clinical expertise. Standard diagnostic methods include:

• Patient questionnaires and medical history: Assessing urinary patterns and past health conditions.

• Urinalysis: Detecting infections, blood, or protein in urine.

• Uroflowmetry and residual urine test: Measuring urine stream speed, strength, and bladder emptying.

• Digital rectal examination (DRE): Palpating the prostate through the rectum to check size and texture.

• Prostate ultrasound: Imaging to determine prostate size, shape, and internal structure.

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test: Screening for prostate cancer risks.

• Cystoscopy: Visual inspection of the urethra and bladder lining using a small endoscope.

• Urodynamic studies: Analyzing bladder and urethral function to identify obstruction causes.

This thorough evaluation ensures that patients receive not only accurate diagnoses but also the most appropriate, personalized treatment plan.

Why Choose Khan Urology Clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul?

1. Exclusive Focus on Prostate Diseases

For over four decades, Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young has dedicated his career exclusively to prostate health, specializing in conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, and prostate cancer. His long-standing experience and focused expertise make him one of the most respected figures in the field.

2. Outstanding Academic and Professional Background

Dr. Yoon is a graduate of Korea University College of Medicine and has held positions at leading institutions such as Korea University Guro Hospital, Bundang Seoul National University Hospital, and Severance Hospital. He has also conducted international research at Harvard Medical School, the National Cancer Institute (NIH, USA), and SUNY Stony Brook. This global experience ensures that patients at Khan Urology Clinic receive care that meets international standards.

3. Patient-Centered, Customized Care

Every patient receives a tailored treatment strategy. Whether the case requires medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery, the goal is always to maximize outcomes and patient satisfaction.

4. High Surgical Volume and Proven Expertise

With over 1,000–1,200 surgeries performed annually, Khan Urology Clinic demonstrates unmatched surgical experience in prostate procedures. This high volume translates into refined surgical skills, improved outcomes, and reduced risks.

Treatment Options for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Treatment at Khan Urology Clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul is based on the severity of symptoms, overall health, and patient preferences. Patients receive individualized recommendations to ensure both safety and long-term effectiveness.

1. Medication Therapy for BPH

For many patients with mild to moderate symptoms, medications are the first line of treatment. These may include alpha-blockers to relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors to shrink the prostate over time. Combination therapy may also be used for improved results.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

Advances in technology now allow for office-based or minimally invasive treatments that relieve obstruction without major surgery. Options include:

• UroLift® System: Tiny implants are placed to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, improving urine flow without cutting or removing tissue.

• iTind™ Procedure: A temporary, self-expanding device is placed in the prostate for several days to reshape the urethra and relieve obstruction, then removed without permanent implants.

• Rezum™ Water Vapor Therapy: Uses steam energy to ablate excess prostate tissue in a minimally invasive manner, with minimal downtime.

• Aquablation® Therapy: A robotically controlled water-jet system that precisely removes prostate tissue using high-velocity saline, providing effective results with less risk of complications.

3. Surgical and Advanced Techniques

For larger prostates or severe cases, surgical treatments may be required. At Khan Urology Clinic, advanced surgical techniques are performed with high safety standards and precision:

• Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): A standard surgical approach to remove obstructive prostate tissue.

• Plasma Vaporization of the Prostate (PVP): Uses plasma energy to vaporize and remove prostate tissue, offering reduced bleeding, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery.

Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young’s expertise ensures that each patient receives the safest, most effective treatment, improving both urinary function and quality of life.

Patient Trust and Reputation

Khan Urology Clinic is recognized as one of Korea’s leading hospitals specializing in surgical treatment of prostate diseases. Patients choose this clinic not only for its advanced medical technology but also for Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young’s trusted reputation and dedication to providing compassionate, results-driven care.

Through personalized treatments and a commitment to medical excellence, the clinic has built a reputation as a reliable and patient-centered institution.

Conclusion

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a condition that should not be ignored, as it can significantly impact daily life and lead to serious complications if untreated. At Khan Urology Clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul, patients benefit from world-class expertise, state-of-the-art diagnostics, and individualized treatment approaches under the care of Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young.

For men experiencing urinary difficulties or concerned about prostate health, seeking timely consultation at Khan Urology Clinic offers reassurance and effective solutions. With over 40 years of exclusive focus on prostate diseases, Dr. Yoon Cheol-Young ensures that every patient receives expert care and long-term health benefits.