Postoperative symptoms after HoLEP surgery

After HoLEP (holmium laser enucleation of the prostate) surgery, patients may experience a variety of symptoms that are part of the normal recovery process. It is common to notice burning or stinging when urinating, the presence of Blood in the urine and temporary discomfort, such as difficulty controlling the bladder. These effects are usually transient and tend to diminish over time, although they may cause concern at first.

In addition to the more common symptoms, there may be other side effects, such as minor urine loss between urinations or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. It is essential to recognize which symptoms are to be expected and which require the attention of a health professional.

Key Points

• Symptoms such as burning and blood in the urine are common after a HoLEP.
• Most side effects are temporary and manageable.
• Seeing a doctor for unusual or persistent symptoms is key.

Common discomforts after HoLEP surgery

HoLEP surgery can cause a number of symptoms during recovery. These symptoms are usually temporary, but it's important to be aware of the normal process and when to seek medical attention.

Bleeding when urinating

Bleeding during urination is common after a HoLEP. Small amounts of blood may be seen in the urine, causing it to take on a pink or even red hue. This phenomenon usually occurs in the first few days after the procedure.

It is common for bleeding to decrease gradually and, in most cases, it does not represent a serious complication. However, if large clots form or if bleeding intensifies, contact the Precision Prostate Clinic medical team.

Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area

After surgery, pain or a feeling of discomfort in the pelvic area may be present. This symptom is usually mild or moderate and is related to tissue manipulation during the procedure.

Pain may worsen when urinating or during sudden physical movements. Mild pain relievers, such as paracetamol, are recommended by health professionals to manage this discomfort. In most cases, the discomfort decreases in the first few days or weeks.

Difficulty urinating

After surgery, you may experience difficulty urinating, such as a weak flow or a feeling of not fully emptying the bladder. This difficulty is usually due to inflammation of the urinary tract or the presence of post-operative waste.

In some cases, a temporary catheter is placed to help drain urine while reducing inflammation. If the difficulty persists for more than a few days, or if severe pain, fever, or inability to urinate occurs, it is recommended to call a doctor immediately.

Urgency and Urinary Frequency

It is common to feel an urgent and frequent urge to urinate during the recovery period. Many people report that they have these discomforts along with a burning sensation, which can cause discomfort until the inflammatory process subsides.

These symptoms usually improve over the first few weeks, as seen in clinical studies and at centers specialized in HoLEP. In some cases, medications prescribed by the urologist may be used to reduce urinary urgency if it interferes with daily activities.

Temporary and prolonged side effects

After the HoLEP surgery, patients may experience bothersome symptoms, both immediate and persistent. These effects usually diminish over time, but it's important to know them to recognize when to see a health professional.

Temporary urinary incontinence

La temporary urinary incontinence is common after HoLEP surgery. Many patients notice small urine leaks, especially when coughing or straining. This symptom may last from a few days to several weeks.

Weakness of the urinary sphincter due to surgical manipulation is often the primary cause. The use of absorbent compresses during this period and the practice of Kegel exercises, which can help strengthen the pelvic muscles, are recommended. In most cases, incontinence improves considerably in the first few weeks.

If urinary leakage persists after three months, it is important to seek medical evaluation to rule out further complications. Not all patients have this symptom with the same intensity, but it is one of the most reported symptoms after surgery.

Presence of clots in the urine

La presence of clots in the urine is a common finding in the first few days after HoLEP surgery. It is usually due to scarring in the area where the laser was used.

The clots are usually small in size and gradually disappear over the course of a week or two. It is normal to see a certain pink or reddish color in the urine until healing is complete.

It is recommended to increase water intake to reduce the formation and size of clots. If you have large clots or difficulty urinating, you should see a doctor, as there may be a temporary obstruction.

Rare Complications and Their Management

After HoLEP surgery, some patients may experience rare but significant complications. These effects may include infections, problems with urinary obstruction and difficulty emptying the bladder.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infection (UTI) can occur after HoLEP surgery, although its frequency is low. Common symptoms are burning during urination, low fever, general malaise, and increased urge or frequency of urination.

The diagnosis is made with a urinalysis and culture to confirm the presence of bacteria. The treatment consists of antibiotics that target the identified germ. In cases of severe or persistent infection, hospitalization may be necessary. Prevention includes maintaining adequate hygiene and regular medical check-ups to detect early signs of infection.

Urethral Stenosis

Urethral stenosis involves the narrowing of the urethra, making it difficult for urine to flow. This problem can manifest weeks or months after surgery and is diagnosed by symptoms such as weak urine flow, intermittent flow, or a feeling of incomplete emptying.

The approach includes urodynamic studies and, sometimes, cystoscopy to visualize the obstruction. The most common treatment is dilatation of the urethra, although in some cases an internal urethrotomy with specialized instruments is needed. It's important to treat stenosis quickly to avoid secondary infections and kidney damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate may involve urinary discomfort, specific post-operative precautions, and questions about side effects. It's common for patients to want to understand what to expect in specific terms of symptoms, recovery time, and necessary care.

What are the common complications after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate?

The most common complications include urinary bleeding, infections and, in some cases, temporary incontinence. Other possible problems include difficulty urinating or urinary retention. With appropriate treatment, most of these complications resolve within a few weeks.

What symptoms are normal after HoLEP surgery?

It's normal to experience burning, stinging when urinating, and urinary urgency in the first few weeks. Blood may also appear in the urine intermittently for several days or even weeks, as explained by Mayo Clinic. These symptoms usually improve progressively over time.

How long is the recovery period after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate?

Most people return to normal activities in about a week, although urinary symptoms may persist for several more weeks. The exact time depends on the general health and characteristics of each patient.

What post-operative care should be taken after HoLEP?

Patients should avoid strenuous physical exertion and consume enough water to help clean the bladder. It is recommended to follow medical instructions on the use of medications and to attend scheduled check-ups. It is essential to inform your urologist if you have a fever, severe pain, or large clots in your urine.

How are urinary symptoms managed after HoLEP surgery?

Burning and urinary frequency are usually controlled with medications recommended by the doctor and by maintaining good hydration. If the symptoms are very severe or do not improve, the specialist should be consulted to adjust the treatment. Symptoms usually decrease over time, and most patients experience significant improvement within a few weeks.

A guided and accompanied recovery

Experiencing certain symptoms after HoLEP surgery is completely normal and, in most cases, they are part of the natural recovery process. Understanding what to expect—from temporary changes in urinary pattern to mild discomfort—helps reduce anxiety and make informed decisions about post-operative care.

In Precision Prostate Clinic, we focus on achieving outstanding surgical results, and on accompanying you at every stage of the process, providing you with personalized follow-up, clear guidance and access to a highly specialized medical team.

If you are considering this procedure, we invite you to consult us. Our experience and commitment to your well-being make us a reliable ally for your recovery and long-term prostate health.