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)