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Post-operative
After your UroLift
Recovery instructions following the UroLift procedure.
UroLift™ Procedure
Diet
- After anaesthesia, begin with clear liquids. Depending on how you feel, you may resume your normal diet.
- Drink plenty of water (aim for 1.5–2L/day unless otherwise advised). Good hydration helps reduce irritation and flush any blood or debris from the urinary tract.
- Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods for the first few days, as these can worsen urinary urgency and burning.
Urinary / Bladder Symptoms
It is common to experience mild urinary symptoms for 1–2 weeks after the procedure.
You may notice:
- Blood in the urine (usually light and short-lived, often <2 weeks)
- Burning or stinging with urination
- Increased urinary frequency and urgency
- A feeling of incomplete emptying
These symptoms are expected and usually settle progressively.
Some patients may experience temporary worsening of urinary symptoms before improvement begins (often within 2–4 weeks).
A catheter is not usually required, but if one was placed, it is typically removed within 24 hours.
Activity
- You may return to light activity within 24–48 hours.
- Avoid heavy lifting (>10–15 kg), strenuous exercise, or cycling for 1 week
- Avoid activities that put pressure on the perineum (e.g. bike riding) for 1–2 weeks
- Walking is encouraged
- You may shower as normal
- Most patients can return to work within a few days, depending on their occupation.
- Most patients can return to work within a few days, depending on their occupation.
Sexual Activity
- Avoid ejaculation for 1 week after the procedure
- Mild discomfort or blood in semen may occur initially and is usually self-limiting
- UroLift typically preserves erectile and ejaculatory function
Medications
- Take all prescribed medications as directed including any antibiotics and/or alpha-blockers
- Continue your usual medications unless advised otherwise
For discomfort:
- Paracetamol (e.g. 1 g every 6 hours, max 4 g/day)
- Anti-inflammatories (e.g. ibuprofen) if suitable
To reduce irritation:
- You may be prescribed medications for bladder symptoms (e.g. anticholinergics)
To avoid straining:
- Maintain good hydration and fibre intake
- Consider a stool softener if needed
Postoperative appointment
- You will need a follow-up appointment in 4–8 weeks to assess symptom improvement.
- If not already arranged, please contact the office to schedule this.
Call the office or present to the Emergency Department if:
- Fever (>38°C), chills, or feeling unwell
- Inability to pass urine (urinary retention)
- Severe or worsening pain not controlled with medication
- Heavy bleeding or large clots (greater than a 50-cent coin)
- You develop signs of infection (e.g. burning worsening rather than improving, foul-smelling urine)
Questions about your recovery?
If you have any concerns after your procedure, call us on (08) 8119 0961.
