Treatment Overview
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a common condition in men, particularly after age 40. Early detection and accurate diagnostics are crucial for managing symptoms, preventing complications, and planning effective treatment. In Korea, leading hospitals and urology clinics offer comprehensive BPH check-ups for both domestic and international patients. These programs combine advanced testing, personalized assessment, and professional follow-up to ensure optimal prostate health.
BPH check-ups in Korea are not just about identifying prostate enlargement—they focus on understanding urinary function, evaluating symptom severity, and detecting any associated risks such as urinary retention, bladder stones, or early signs of infection.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of BPH check-ups and diagnostics is to evaluate the prostate and urinary system comprehensively, allowing for timely management before severe complications occur. Benefits include:
- Accurate measurement of prostate size and structure
- Identification of urinary obstruction or retention
- Early detection of bladder or kidney issues linked to BPH
- Guidance for appropriate treatment options, from medication to minimally invasive procedures
- Improvement in quality of life through timely intervention
- Structured monitoring to prevent symptom progression
For international patients, Korean hospitals provide streamlined programs that integrate diagnostics with personalized care plans, often including translation and travel support.
Ideal Candidates
BPH diagnostics are recommended for men who:
- Are over 40 or have a family history of prostate issues
- Experience urinary symptoms such as weak urine flow, urgency, frequent urination, incomplete bladder emptying, or nocturia
- Have been on medication but require evaluation of effectiveness
- Are preparing for minimally invasive procedures or surgical treatment
- Seek thorough and accurate evaluation of prostate health in a professional medical setting
- International patients wanting a detailed check-up during a visit to Korea
Even men with mild symptoms benefit from regular check-ups, as early detection allows interventions that prevent future complications.
Possible Risks & Complications
BPH diagnostic procedures are generally safe and non-invasive, but minor risks may include:
- Mild discomfort during urine flow measurements or catheter-based tests
- Slight irritation or temporary urinary symptoms following invasive tests such as cystoscopy
- Anxiety related to blood test results or imaging findings
Timely and accurate diagnostics reduce the risk of serious complications associated with untreated BPH, such as chronic urinary retention, bladder stones, urinary tract infections, or kidney damage.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean urology clinics utilize the latest technologies to provide comprehensive BPH diagnostics:
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Initial assessment to detect prostate enlargement, nodules, or irregularities
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Blood test to screen for prostate enlargement and potential malignancy
- Ultrasound Imaging: Transabdominal or transrectal imaging to assess prostate size, bladder condition, and urinary tract anatomy
- Uroflowmetry: Measures the speed and volume of urine flow to evaluate obstruction
- Post-Void Residual (PVR) Measurement: Determines how much urine remains in the bladder after urination
- Cystoscopy: Direct visual inspection of the urethra and bladder for structural abnormalities or stones
- Advanced Laboratory Tests: Identify infections or other conditions that may affect urinary function
These technologies ensure precise assessment of prostate health, allowing doctors to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Initial Consultation: Detailed review of medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors.
- Diagnostic Testing: Blood tests, PSA evaluation, urine analysis, ultrasound, uroflowmetry, and bladder scans.
- Assessment & Interpretation: Urologist evaluates all test results to confirm BPH, rule out prostate cancer, and detect related complications.
- Personalized Recommendations: Patients receive guidance on medication, lifestyle changes, or minimally invasive treatments based on diagnostic outcomes.
- Follow-Up Plan: Structured follow-ups monitor progression, adjust treatment, and provide ongoing support.
Korean hospitals often offer integrated packages that combine multiple tests in a single visit, which is convenient for international patients with limited time.
Recovery & After-Care
Since most BPH diagnostics are non-invasive or minimally invasive, patients can typically resume normal activities immediately. Aftercare recommendations may include:
- Following specific instructions if any invasive tests like cystoscopy are performed
- Tracking urinary symptoms for changes over time
- Regular follow-ups to monitor prostate health
- Adherence to recommended lifestyle or medication adjustments
Proper aftercare ensures accurate evaluation of treatment efficacy and long-term prostate health.
Results & Longevity
Early detection through BPH check-ups and diagnostics allows for:
- Timely initiation of medical therapy or lifestyle interventions
- Prevention of serious complications like urinary retention, bladder stones, or kidney damage
- Improved urinary function and quality of life
- Long-term monitoring to maintain prostate health and reduce the risk of symptom progression
Patients who undergo regular check-ups in Korea often experience sustained urinary health and reduced reliance on invasive procedures later in life.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced urologists with expertise in BPH and prostate diagnostics
- State-of-the-art hospitals with advanced imaging, lab testing, and uroflowmetry equipment
- Comprehensive packages for international patients including consultation, testing, follow-up, and translation services
- Affordable, high-quality care compared to Western countries
- Structured post-diagnostic monitoring to ensure ongoing health and early intervention if needed
Cost Range
- Consultation: USD 40–120
- Blood Tests & PSA: USD 50–100
- Ultrasound Imaging: USD 100–200
- Uroflowmetry & Post-Void Residual Measurement: USD 50–100
- Cystoscopy (if required): USD 200–400
Costs may vary depending on hospital, test combinations, and international patient service packages.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Seoul National University Hospital
- Samsung Medical Center, Seoul
- Asan Medical Center, Seoul
- Severance Hospital (Yonsei University)
- St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul
- Gangnam Urology Specialist Clinics
These hospitals provide comprehensive BPH diagnostics and follow-up care for both domestic and international patients.
