Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, affects many men as they age. It can cause urinary symptoms such as weak flow, difficulty starting or stopping urination, frequent urination at night, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. In Singapore, enlarged prostate surgery is usually considered when medications or lifestyle changes no longer provide adequate relief, or when complications such as urinary retention, bladder stones, or infections develop.
Back to main channel: Enlarged Prostate Treatment
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Enlarged prostate surgery may be recommended when:
- Symptoms remain moderate to severe despite medication.
- There is evidence of urinary tract obstruction or bladder damage.
- Complications such as infections, bleeding, or kidney impairment occur.
The choice of procedure depends on the prostate’s size and structure, the patient’s age and overall health, and whether preservation of sexual function is a priority.
Common Enlarged Prostate Surgery Options in Singapore
1. Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
TURP is the traditional “gold standard” surgery for BPH. It removes part of the prostate through the urethra using a resectoscope. The procedure is effective in improving urine flow and quality of life, and is widely available in Singapore hospitals.
2. Laser Enucleation of the Prostate
Laser enucleation (for example, holmium or thulium laser techniques) removes obstructing prostate tissue using laser energy. It is effective for small and large prostates and may result in less bleeding and quicker recovery compared to TURP.
3. Prostatic Urethral Lift
This minimally invasive technique uses small implants to hold prostate tissue away from the urethra, widening the urinary passage. It is usually performed as a day procedure and may better preserve ejaculation and sexual function compared to traditional surgery.
4. Water-Vapour Therapy
This newer treatment uses steam energy to reduce excess prostate tissue. It can be performed under local anaesthesia and typically allows men to return to normal activity within a few days. It may be suitable for those seeking a less invasive option.
5. Open or Robotic Simple Prostatectomy
For very large prostates, open or robot-assisted surgery may be required. Robotic systems allow for greater precision and smaller incisions, but are typically offered only in specialised centres.
Recovery and Expected Outcomes
- Effectiveness: TURP and laser enucleation generally offer long-lasting relief. Minimally invasive procedures such as prostatic urethral lift or water-vapour therapy also improve symptoms, although some men may require repeat treatment in later years.
- Hospital stay: Usually one to two days for TURP or laser enucleation; most minimally invasive procedures are performed as day surgery.
- Risks: Possible risks include bleeding, infection, urinary incontinence, or retrograde ejaculation (where semen flows into the bladder instead of out).
- Recovery: Most men return to normal activities within two to three weeks, depending on the procedure and their overall health.
Cost of Enlarged Prostate Surgery in Singapore
According to MOH’s historical fee benchmarks (assessed 21 Nov 24), the average costs of enlarged prostate treatment in Singapore by minimally invasive surgery (TOSP Code: SH832P) are:
| Setting | Ward Type | Typical Bill | Typical Bill Range | Typical Bill Items | ||
| Operation Fee | Implant Fee1 | Other Fee2 | ||||
| Public Hospitals | Day Surgery (Subsidised) | $5,496 | $3,232 – $6,312 | $1,855 | Not Available | $2,425 |
| Day Surgery (Unsubsidised) | $8,847 | $7,952 – $9,953 | $3,282 | Not Available | $5,551 | |
| Private Hospitals | Day Surgery | $13,495 | $12,056 – $15,919 | $11,777 | Not Available | $1,398 |
| 1 Fee for the medical device(s)/ implants placed inside the body. Applicable only if your procedure requires an implant.2 Includes ward charges, doctor’s daily attendance and consultation fee, consumables, medication, tests, accident & emergency charges etc., where applicable.Note: Figures shown are based on the median fee, i.e., what 50% of patients are charged below. They provide an estimate and may not add up. | ||||||
MOH Historical Benchmark Costs Of Minimally Invasive Enlarged Prostate Treatment. Source: Ministry of Health
The MOH recommended benchmark fees are:
| Type of Fees | Fee Range | |
| Doctor Fees | ||
| Surgeon Fee1 | $3,706 – $4,905 w/GST($3,400 – $4,500 w/o GST) | |
| Anaesthetist Fee | Not Available | |
| Inpatient Doctors’ Attendance Fees2 | $230 – $450 w/GST per day($210 – $420 w/o GST per day) | |
| Hospital Fees | Hospital Fees | Not Available |
| 1 Higher end of surgeon fees may be associated with more complex cases.2 Fee range is for office hours only and does not include the costs of medications, injections, operations, special procedures, investigations (e.g., radiological and laboratory tests). | ||
MOH Recommended Benchmark Fees For Minimally Invasive Enlarged Prostate Treatment. Source: Ministry of Health
Urologists You May Consider
Contact us today for an introduction to a specialist who can assess your symptoms and guide you towards the best treatment options for your prostate health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is surgery necessary for an enlarged prostate?
Surgery is recommended when medications fail to control symptoms or when complications such as urinary retention or infections develop.
2. Which surgery provides the best results?
Both TURP and laser enucleation are proven to provide lasting symptom relief. Minimally invasive treatments are effective alternatives for suitable candidates.
3. Will surgery affect sexual function?
Some surgeries may cause retrograde ejaculation. Minimally invasive methods tend to preserve sexual and ejaculatory function better. Discuss this with your doctor before deciding.
4. How long does recovery take?
Most men resume normal routines within two to three weeks, depending on the procedure. Minimally invasive techniques usually allow faster recovery.
5. Can MediSave or insurance cover the procedure?
Yes. MediSave can be used for approved procedures, and most Integrated Shield Plans cover prostate surgery. Always confirm your eligibility before scheduling surgery.