Treatment Overview
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement, is a common condition in men, especially over 50, causing urinary symptoms such as weak urine flow, frequent urination, and incomplete bladder emptying. For international patients, accessing accurate diagnosis and effective treatment in a foreign country can be challenging.
Korea has become a leading destination for international patients seeking BPH evaluation due to its advanced diagnostic technology, skilled urologists, efficient medical systems, and comprehensive support services tailored to foreigners. Hospitals and specialized urology clinics provide seamless evaluation programs, ensuring safe, accurate, and convenient care.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of a BPH evaluation for international patients in Korea is to accurately diagnose prostate enlargement, assess its impact on urinary health, and design a personalized treatment plan. Benefits include:
- Comprehensive assessment using advanced diagnostic tools
- Early detection of complications such as bladder stones, urinary tract infections, or kidney damage
- Tailored treatment planning including medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery
- Expert care from highly skilled urologists with international experience
- Streamlined process for international patients including translation and care coordination
- Peace of mind with accurate diagnosis and reliable follow-up
This ensures that international patients receive safe, high-quality care even from abroad.
Ideal Candidates
BPH evaluation in Korea is suitable for international patients who:
- Experience urinary symptoms like weak stream, urgency, or nocturia
- Have a history of BPH or prostate concerns
- Require an evaluation before starting treatment or surgery
- Want access to advanced diagnostic tools and expert urologists
- Are concerned about long-term prostate health
- Prefer coordinated care including translation, appointment scheduling, and follow-up
Korean hospitals design evaluation programs specifically for foreign patients, ensuring minimal language barriers and efficient medical care.
Possible Risks & Complications
BPH evaluation is generally safe, with minimal risk. Possible considerations include:
- Slight discomfort during digital rectal examination (DRE)
- Mild urinary urgency during urodynamic tests
- Temporary irritation or bleeding during transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) or biopsy, if required
- Rare allergic reactions to contrast agents during imaging
- Anxiety related to unfamiliar medical procedures or results
Hospitals in Korea mitigate these risks by providing detailed explanations, modern equipment, and professional patient support.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korea employs advanced diagnostic tools to provide accurate evaluation of BPH for international patients:
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
A physical exam to assess prostate size, shape, and texture.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
Blood test to measure PSA levels and screen for potential prostate abnormalities.
Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS)
High-resolution imaging to evaluate prostate size and detect structural changes or nodules.
Urodynamic Studies
Tests bladder and urinary function, measuring urine flow rate and bladder pressure.
Cystoscopy
A minimally invasive procedure using a camera to visualize the urethra and bladder, if needed.
MRI or CT Imaging
Advanced imaging is used for complex cases or if prostate cancer is suspected.
These technologies provide international patients with precise diagnostic results and guide effective treatment planning.
Treatment Process in Korea
The BPH evaluation process for international patients is designed for efficiency and safety:
- Initial Consultation
- Review of medical history, urinary symptoms, and prior treatments
- Digital rectal examination (DRE)
- Diagnostic Testing
- PSA blood test, urinalysis, TRUS, urodynamic studies, and MRI/CT if indicated
- Evaluation & Risk Assessment
- Results analyzed by urologists to determine BPH severity and potential complications
- Recommendations for medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery if required
- Personalized Treatment Planning
- Tailored plans are created considering the patient’s condition, lifestyle, and preferences
- Coordination of appointments, medication, or procedures for international patients
- Follow-Up & Monitoring
- Regular checks via telemedicine or in-person visits
- Ongoing monitoring to track symptom improvement and ensure optimal urinary health
Hospitals provide full support to international patients, including translation, travel assistance, and medical tourism coordination.
Recovery & After-Care
While evaluation itself requires no recovery, post-evaluation care may include:
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Dietary recommendations, hydration, and activity guidelines
- Medication: Alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors if prescribed
- Monitoring: Regular PSA tests, imaging, and symptom tracking
- Follow-Up Consultation: Remote or in-person follow-up ensures continued care
- Support Services: Coordination with local healthcare providers for continuity of care
Following these guidelines ensures the long-term effectiveness of BPH management for international patients.
Results & Longevity
BPH evaluation in Korea for international patients provides:
- Accurate diagnosis distinguishing between benign enlargement and other conditions
- Early detection of complications or malignancies
- Clear, personalized treatment plans with long-term urinary health benefits
- Reduced risk of recurrent urinary infections, bladder stones, or kidney issues
- Ongoing monitoring for sustained symptom relief and quality of life
With a structured evaluation and follow-up, international patients achieve safe and effective long-term outcomes.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a leading destination for BPH evaluation for international patients because:
- Highly trained urologists with expertise in BPH and urinary disorders
- Advanced diagnostic tools for precise evaluation
- Integrated care combining BPH management and overall urinary health
- Transparent and affordable pricing compared to Western countries
- Comprehensive support for international patients including translators and coordinators
- High standards of hygiene, safety, and patient comfort in hospitals
These factors make Korea an ideal destination for international patients seeking world-class urology care.
Cost Range
The cost of BPH evaluation for international patients in Korea depends on diagnostic tests and procedures:
- Consultation: USD 50 – 150
- PSA Blood Test: USD 50 – 100
- TRUS: USD 150 – 300
- Urodynamic Study: USD 200 – 400
- MRI / CT Imaging (if required): USD 300 – 600
- Cystoscopy (if indicated): USD 300 – 600
International packages often include consultation, diagnostics, interpretation of results, and follow-up support.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals and clinics for BPH evaluation for international patients include:
- Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)
- Samsung Medical Center, Seoul
- Asan Medical Center, Seoul
- Severance Hospital (Yonsei University)
- St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul
- Gangnam Urology Specialist Clinics
These institutions provide advanced diagnostics, expert urologists, and comprehensive international patient services.
