Medical Tourism Blog
Urinary Retention BPH Treatment with Rezum Procedure in Korea: Effective Solutions
Table of contents
- Understanding Urinary Retention Caused by BPH
- Rezum Water Vapor Therapy: A Detailed Medical Procedure
- The Medical Tourist's Journey: Getting Rezum Treatment in South Korea
- Cost Analysis: Rezum Treatment in South Korea vs. International Options
- Patient Outcomes and Long-Term Experiences with Rezum Treatment
- Effectiveness in Relieving Symptoms and Improving Urine Flow
- Success Rates for Resolving Urinary Retention (Catheter-Free Rates)
- Durability of Results and Retreatment Rates
- Impact on Sexual and Ejaculatory Function
- Safety Profile and Reported Complications
- Real-World Patient Experiences and Quality of Life Improvements
- Conclusion
If you’re dealing with urinary retention caused by Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), this guide is here to help you understand your condition, learn about the innovative Rezum Water Vapor Therapy, and get practical tips if you’re considering traveling to South Korea for treatment.
BPH, often called an enlarged prostate, is a common issue for aging men. It can cause annoying lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and, in more serious cases, lead to acute urinary retention—where you can’t empty your bladder. Knowing what’s happening and what your options are is key to making the best decisions for your health.
Understanding Urinary Retention Caused by BPH
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which sits just below the bladder and helps produce semen. You might hear it called “enlarged prostate” or “benign prostatic enlargement.”
BPH becomes more common as men age. About one in four men have BPH symptoms by age 55, and half of all men by age 75. Treatment is usually only needed if symptoms are bothersome or cause complications.
How BPH Leads to Urinary Retention and Other Symptoms
The urethra, which carries urine from the bladder out of the body, runs through the center of the prostate. When the prostate gets bigger, it can squeeze or block the urethra, making it hard to urinate. This blockage causes a range of urinary problems known as Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS).
Obstructive symptoms include trouble starting to urinate, a weak or interrupted stream, dribbling at the end, and feeling like your bladder isn’t empty. The bladder’s reaction to the blockage can cause irritative symptoms like urgency (a sudden, strong need to go), frequent urination, and waking up at night to urinate (nocturia).
Urinary retention is a severe form of BPH, where you can’t fully empty your bladder. In acute cases, you might not be able to urinate at all, which is a medical emergency and needs immediate attention.
Potential Complications of Untreated BPH
If BPH isn’t treated, symptoms usually get worse over time. The blockage can lead to serious problems beyond discomfort.
Acute urinary retention—being unable to urinate at all—often requires urgent medical help, like a catheter to drain the bladder. Not emptying the bladder fully can also lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs), since stagnant urine is a breeding ground for bacteria.
Bladder stones can form, causing pain, irritation, blood in the urine, and more blockage. Over time, the bladder can become stretched and weak, making it even harder to empty. Pressure from a full bladder can back up into the kidneys, causing damage or kidney infections.
The shift from mild symptoms to severe complications like urinary retention and kidney damage shows how important it is to take BPH seriously. Urinary retention is a medical emergency, and early treatment is crucial to avoid life-threatening issues.
When to Seek Treatment: Assessing Symptom Severity
Treatment decisions for BPH depend on how severe your symptoms are, whether there’s any urinary tract damage, and your overall health. The American Urological Association (AUA) Symptom Index is a helpful tool for measuring symptom severity.
If your symptoms are mild and not bothersome, you might not need treatment. But if they’re affecting your quality of life or causing damage, it’s time to consider intervention. The size of your prostate doesn’t always match the severity of your symptoms—some men with small prostates have major symptoms, and vice versa. What matters most is how much your symptoms impact you. If you can’t urinate at all, seek medical help right away.
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy: A Detailed Medical Procedure
Mechanism of Action: How Water Vapor Shrinks the Prostate
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment that uses the natural thermal energy in sterile water vapor (steam) to target enlarged prostate tissue. A small device is inserted into the urethra to deliver controlled doses of steam directly into the prostate.
The steam spreads through the tissue, releasing heat that kills cells (ablation) and closes small blood vessels and nerves in the area. Over time, your body absorbs the treated tissue, shrinking the prostate and opening up the urethra. Many patients notice symptom improvement within two weeks, with the best results seen in about three months.
The Procedure: What Happens During Rezum Treatment
Rezum Therapy is usually done as an outpatient procedure in a doctor’s office or clinic. The steam treatment itself takes just a few minutes, with each application lasting about 9 seconds. The whole visit, including prep and recovery, is typically around two hours.
You won’t need general anesthesia—local anesthesia or light sedation is enough. Your doctor will decide how many steam treatments you need based on your prostate size and anatomy.
Before the procedure, you might need to stop blood thinners and take antibiotics to prevent infection. Afterward, a temporary urinary catheter may be used for a few days to help you urinate while your prostate heals. You’ll likely continue antibiotics and can use mild pain medication if needed. Warm baths or a hot water bottle can also help with discomfort. Most people get back to normal activities in a few days, but your doctor will give you specific advice. Avoiding caffeine, chocolate, and alcohol for a bit may also help.
Key Benefits of Rezum Therapy
Rezum Therapy is less invasive than traditional surgery—no incisions are needed. It’s done as day surgery, which means lower costs and less disruption to your life. For medical tourists, this means a shorter stay abroad and lower travel expenses.
Rezum can reduce or eliminate the need for daily BPH medications. Studies show it’s safe and effective, with many patients feeling better within two weeks and full benefits in three months.
A big plus is that Rezum preserves erectile and urinary functions. Clinical trials show no new cases of erectile dysfunction and a very low rate of retrograde ejaculation (about 2%). This is much better than some medications and surgeries, which can cause sexual side effects.
Recovery is quick—most people return to normal activities in a few days. Rezum can also treat tricky prostate anatomy, like the median lobe, which some other treatments can’t handle as well. Treating all problem areas helps ensure long-lasting results and fewer repeat procedures.
Ideal Candidates and Considerations for Rezum Treatment
Rezum Therapy is for men aged 50 and older with a prostate volume between 30cm³ and 80cm³, including those with central zone or median lobe hyperplasia. It’s best for men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms like frequent urination, trouble starting or maintaining a stream, weak flow, urgency, and feeling like the bladder isn’t empty.
It may not be suitable for men with very large prostates or certain health conditions. Some discomfort or pain is normal during and after the procedure, but side effects like urgency, frequency, or burning usually go away in a few weeks. While some improvement is quick, full effects can take several weeks as the prostate shrinks.
The Medical Tourist's Journey: Getting Rezum Treatment in South Korea
Best Clinics in Korea for Urinary Retention Bph
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for urinary retention bph:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Proud Urology Clinic | JCI-accredited, expert team, state-of-the-art facility, comprehensive men’s health services, individualized patient care, advanced medical procedures, strong focus on men’s enhancement and reconstructive procedures | Minimally invasive surgical interventions, tailored medical therapies, specialized treatments for urinary retention and BPH |
| GoldMan Urology Clinic - Incheon | Patient-focused approach, cutting-edge urological care, experienced medical team, state-of-the-art facilities, highest standards of care, advanced treatments for BPH, leadership in innovative urological procedures | Specialized BPH management (medications to minimally invasive surgery), laser circumcision, non-scalpel vasectomy, advanced penile augmentation |
| GoldMan Urology Clinic - Gangnam | Patient-focused, modern facilities, comprehensive individualized BPH treatment options, advanced medical technology, experienced urologists, emphasis on safety and satisfaction, convenient Gangnam location | Latest urological technologies, minimally invasive approaches, tailored BPH and urinary retention management, clear patient communication and education |
Proud Urology Clinic
Proud Urology Clinic stands out as the premier choice for treating Urinary Retention related to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in Korea, thanks to its unwavering commitment to patient care, advanced medical procedures, and a team of expertly trained professionals. Established in 2016 and holding the prestigious JCI accreditation, Proud Urology Clinic offers comprehensive men’s health services ranging from minimally invasive surgical interventions to tailored medical therapies. With a strong focus on men’s enhancement and reconstructive procedures, the clinic’s expertise extends to a variety of urological conditions, ensuring each patient receives individualized attention and care in a state-of-the-art facility. Their broad range of specialized treatments, coupled with a steadfast dedication to the highest international standards, makes Proud Urology Clinic the best destination for men seeking effective solutions for urinary retention and BPH in Korea.
Find more about this clinic here: Proud Urology Clinic Website
GoldMan Urology Clinic - Incheon
GoldMan Urology Clinic - Incheon stands out as the premier destination for treating Urinary Retention due to Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) in Korea, thanks to its commitment to cutting-edge urological care and a highly patient-oriented approach. The clinic is renowned for offering a comprehensive range of advanced treatments, including specialized BPH management tailored to the individual needs and severity of each patient's condition, from effective medication plans to the latest minimally invasive surgical options. With a reputation for prioritizing patient safety, comfort, and long-term satisfaction, GoldMan Urology Clinic combines experienced medical expertise with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring the highest standards of care. Additionally, the clinic's leadership in other innovative procedures, such as laser circumcision, non-scalpel vasectomy, and advanced penile augmentation, highlights its position at the forefront of modern urology in Korea, making it the best choice for those seeking effective solutions for urinary retention and BPH.
Find more about this clinic here: GoldMan Urology Clinic - Incheon Website
GoldMan Urology Clinic - Gangnam
GoldMan Urology Clinic – Gangnam, located in Yangjae, is a premier urological center that blends advanced medical technology with a patient-focused approach to deliver exceptional care across the spectrum of urologic conditions. Known for its expertise in both surgical and non-surgical treatments, GoldMan Urology Clinic is recognized for its dedication to maximizing postoperative satisfaction, minimizing complications, and providing cutting-edge solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. The clinic excels particularly in the management and treatment of Urinary Retention secondary to Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH), ensuring that patients receive the highest standards of care in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Key reasons why GoldMan Urology Clinic – Gangnam stands out for Urinary Retention BPH:
- Comprehensive, individualized BPH treatment options designed to address each patient's unique condition
- Use of the latest urological technologies to minimize risks, enhance safety, and reduce recovery time
- A dedicated team of experienced urologists with a proven track record in managing complex urinary retention cases
- Emphasis on patient-oriented care, ensuring clear communication, comfort, and education throughout the treatment process
- Conveniently located in Gangnam, with modern facilities and a commitment to patient privacy and discretion
- Ongoing commitment to innovation, patient satisfaction, and minimally invasive approaches to optimize outcomes for all patients with urinary difficulties
With these strengths, GoldMan Urology Clinic – Gangnam is at the forefront of urinary retention and BPH management in Korea, making it a trusted choice for patients seeking the best in urological care.
Find more about this clinic here: GoldMan Urology Clinic - Gangnam Website
Why South Korea for Medical Tourism?
South Korea is a top destination for medical tourism, known for advanced technology, skilled doctors, and a patient-focused approach. Clinics and hospitals offer high standards of care, often at much lower prices than in Western countries. Many facilities provide specialized procedures like Rezum Therapy and support services for international patients.
Pre-Procedure Planning: Virtual Consultations & Itinerary Coordination
Your journey starts before you even travel. Most Korean hospitals offer virtual consultations, where you’ll discuss your medical history and see if Rezum Treatment is right for you. International patient services can help plan your trip, arrange accommodations, and handle logistics, making the process smooth and stress-free. A 10% deposit (about $250–$350 USD) is usually required to secure your appointment.
Arrival and On-Site Evaluation
When you arrive in South Korea, you’ll undergo pre-operative tests like blood work, urine tests, and possibly an ultrasound. These are included in the treatment package and help confirm you’re a good candidate for Rezum Therapy.
The Procedure Day: What to Expect
Rezum Treatment is minimally invasive and usually done with local anesthesia or light sedation. The whole process, including prep and monitoring, takes less than an hour, and you can go home the same day. It’s best to arrange a ride home unless your doctor says you can drive.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
After the procedure, you’ll be monitored for a short time. Mild discomfort is common but can be managed with over-the-counter pain meds. A temporary catheter is often used to help with urination while you heal. You’ll get detailed instructions on medications, activity limits, and diet. Most people are back to daily activities in a few days, with noticeable improvement in two weeks and full benefits in three months. Follow-up visits are included to track your recovery and answer any questions.
Cost Analysis: Rezum Treatment in South Korea vs. International Options
Estimated Costs for Rezum Treatment in South Korea
Rezum Treatment in South Korea typically costs $2,500 to $3,500 USD, with a 10% deposit required upfront. The price usually covers the temporary catheter, follow-up visits, pre-op tests, and sometimes an overnight stay. This bundled pricing helps you budget and avoids surprise costs. Prices may be higher in top clinics or with renowned specialists.
Comparative Analysis: Rezum Treatment Costs Globally
Medical tourists often save 70–75% compared to costs in their home countries. South Korea offers high quality at a reasonable price. Here’s how Rezum costs compare worldwide:
Comparative Costs of Rezum Treatment by Country (Approximate USD)
| Country | Approximate Rezum Treatment Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| South Korea | $2,500 - $3,500 |
| USA | $1,500 - $15,000 |
| India | ~$5,000 |
| Thailand | ~$7,000 |
| UK | ~$5,700 |
| Canada | $2,500 - $14,626 |
| Germany | $3,000 - $13,000 |
| Malaysia | $4,700 - $5,400 |
| Indonesia | ~$5,863 |
| Singapore | $10,000 - $12,000 |
Note: Costs vary based on location, provider, and what’s included in the package.
Additional Travel-Related Expenses for Medical Tourists
Besides the procedure, you’ll need to budget for travel and living costs. Flights from North America are $800–$1,500, from Europe $600–$1,200, and from nearby Asian countries $200–$600. Accommodation in Seoul ranges from $30–$60 per night for budget options, $80–$150 for mid-range hotels, and $200–$500 for luxury stays.
Public transportation is affordable (under $2 per ride), and meals can be as low as $5–$10 for street food or $15–$30 at restaurants. Don’t forget travel insurance ($50–$200) and any sightseeing expenses.
Overall Value Proposition for Medical Tourists
Even with travel and living expenses, getting Rezum Treatment in South Korea can be much cheaper than in many Western countries. South Korea combines top-notch medical care, advanced technology, and excellent patient support at a great price. The ease of travel, quality of services, and overall experience make it a standout choice for medical tourists.
Patient Outcomes and Long-Term Experiences with Rezum Treatment
Effectiveness in Relieving Symptoms and Improving Urine Flow
Rezum Therapy delivers real results. Studies show a 48% reduction in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and a 45% improvement in Quality of Life (QOL) at five years post-procedure. Maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) improved by 44%. Many patients notice better symptoms within two weeks, with full benefits in three months.
Success Rates for Resolving Urinary Retention (Catheter-Free Rates)
Rezum is highly effective for men who were dependent on catheters. In a study of 301 patients, 85% were able to urinate naturally after treatment. For those with larger prostates, the rate was slightly lower (77.5%), but still impressive. Rezum’s catheter-free rate is close to that of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), but with fewer risks.
Durability of Results and Retreatment Rates
The benefits of Rezum Therapy last. Only 4.4% of patients needed surgical retreatment after five years, and 11.1% started medical therapy. Treating all parts of the prostate, especially the median lobe, helps ensure long-term success. Rezum’s retreatment rate is lower than some other minimally invasive options, giving patients peace of mind.
Impact on Sexual and Ejaculatory Function
Rezum stands out for preserving sexual function. No new cases of erectile dysfunction were reported in five-year studies, and retrograde ejaculation rates are as low as 2%. This is much better than many medications and surgeries, which can cause sexual side effects. Any changes in sexual function scores were in line with normal aging.
Safety Profile and Reported Complications
Rezum has a low complication rate (3.8%–4.3%), and most issues are mild and resolve on their own. The most common problems are mild bleeding or urinary tract infections. No major complications have been reported. Compared to traditional surgery, Rezum has fewer risks of bleeding, incontinence, or sexual dysfunction.
Real-World Patient Experiences and Quality of Life Improvements
Patients report significant improvements in quality of life after Rezum Treatment. Most return to normal activities within days, and those who were previously dependent on catheters often become catheter-free, reducing discomfort and infection risk.
Conclusion
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is a major step forward in treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, especially for those struggling with urinary retention. It offers quick, lasting relief with minimal side effects and preserves sexual function. South Korea stands out as a top destination for this treatment, thanks to its high-quality care, advanced technology, and transparent pricing. If you’re considering Rezum Therapy, talk with a qualified healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you.
References
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