Dr. CARLO BRAVI
Consultant Urologist and Andrologist
Robotic and Minimally Invasive Urological Surgeon
Aquablation Surgery for an Enlarged Prostate
Aquablation is a minimally invasive surgical treatment for urinary symptoms caused by benign prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH.
The procedure combines real-time ultrasound imaging, robotic assistance and a high-pressure waterjet to remove prostate tissue that is obstructing the flow of urine. It is performed through the urethra, without external surgical incisions.
Dr Carlo Bravi offers private assessment and advice for men considering Aquablation and other treatments for an enlarged prostate. Consultations are available in Northampton and London.
What is Aquablation Surgery?
Aquablation is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH). Like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) and Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), it is performed without any external incisions. During the procedure, a thin telescope-like instrument (called a scope) is passed through the urethra (the tube that carries urine through the penis) to reach the prostate.
Unlike traditional procedures that use heat or a laser to remove prostate tissue, Aquablation uses a high-pressure, heat-free jet of sterile water to precisely remove the enlarged prostate tissue causing the blockage. The treatment is guided by real-time ultrasound imaging and robotic technology, allowing the surgeon to create a personalised treatment plan while preserving important surrounding structures.
By removing the tissue that is obstructing the flow of urine, Aquablation relieves urinary symptoms while reducing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues. It is particularly beneficial for men with larger prostates and for those wishing to preserve sexual function, including ejaculation, where appropriate.
What symptoms can Aquablation treat?
An enlarged prostate can compress the urethra and interfere with the normal flow of urine. Possible symptoms include:
-
A weak or interrupted urinary stream
-
Difficulty starting urination
-
Straining to pass urine
-
A frequent or urgent need to urinate
-
Waking repeatedly at night to urinate
-
A feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely
-
Episodes of urinary retention
These symptoms are not always caused by benign prostate enlargement. Assessment is important to exclude other urinary or prostate conditions.
Assessment Before Aquablation
Before recommending Aquablation, Dr Bravi will review your urinary symptoms, medical history, current medication and previous investigations. Assessment may include a urine test, PSA blood test, examination, urinary flow measurement, bladder scan and imaging to assess the size and shape of the prostate. Further investigations may occasionally be required to confirm that prostate enlargement is the principal cause of the symptoms.
How does Aquablation work?
Aquablation uses advanced imaging, robotic technology and a precise waterjet to remove the prostate tissue blocking urinary flow.
1.
See
Map the prostate
Ultrasound identifies the prostate and the tissue causing obstruction.
2.
Plan
Personalise the treatment
Your surgeon creates a treatment plan based on your individual anatomy.
3.
Treat
Remove the obstructing tissue
A precise high-pressure waterjet removes the targeted tissue — without using heat.
Targeted, Precise, Heat-free
Aquablation is designed to accurately remove the prostate tissue causing urinary obstruction, using a high-pressure waterjet guided by real-time imaging. The treatment is tailored to your individual anatomy, helping your surgeon target the tissue that needs to be removed.
This approach helps not only improve urinary symptoms but also aims to preserve sexual function and support your overall quality of life.
Recovery after Aquablation
Recovery after Aquablation varies from person to person. The procedure is normally performed as a day case, although some patients may need to stay in hospital overnight depending on their individual circumstances.
More precise recovery instructions can be given once the operation has been completed. Your surgeon will advise you based on how the procedure went and your individual progress. In general, most patients should allow approximately two to three weeks for recovery before gradually returning to their normal activities.
For more detailed information about catheter care, activity restrictions, returning to work, driving and flying, read our guide to recovery after Aquablation.
Risks and Alternative Treatments
As with any surgical procedure, Aquablation has potential risks. These may include bleeding, infection, temporary urinary discomfort, difficulty passing urine, temporary urgency or leakage, urethral narrowing and the possibility of requiring further treatment. Retrograde ejaculation or other changes in sexual function can also occur.
Alternative treatments may include medication, TURP, HoLEP, Rezūm, UroLift or other surgical options. The most appropriate treatment depends on prostate anatomy, symptom severity, general health and individual priorities.
Patients comparing surgical options may also find it helpful to read Aquablation vs TURP: what is the difference?
Why Consult Dr Carlo Bravi About Aquablation?
Dr Carlo Bravi is a consultant urological surgeon with specialist experience in minimally invasive and robotic urological procedures. He offers individual assessment for men considering Aquablation, including review of urinary symptoms, previous treatment, prostate anatomy and alternative surgical options.
Private consultations are available in Northampton and London. The purpose of the consultation is to determine whether Aquablation is appropriate for your individual circumstances and to discuss its potential benefits, limitations and alternatives.
Aquablation Consultations in London
Dr Carlo Bravi offers private consultations in London for men experiencing urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate or considering Aquablation. During the consultation, he can review your symptoms, previous treatments, prostate investigations, prostate size and anatomy, and discuss whether Aquablation may be appropriate.
The consultation will also cover alternative treatments, potential benefits and risks, expected recovery and the practical arrangements for any recommended procedure. Treatment recommendations are based on an individual assessment rather than on prostate size or symptoms alone.
Learn more about arranging a private urology consultation in London.
Aquablation Consultations in Northampton
Patients from Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas can begin their Aquablation pathway locally with Dr Carlo Bravi. The initial consultation focuses on establishing the cause and severity of the urinary symptoms, reviewing previous investigations and treatment, and deciding whether further assessment is required before considering surgery.
Initial assessment and subsequent follow-up can be provided in Northampton. If Aquablation is recommended, Dr Bravi will explain where the procedure can be undertaken and the practical arrangements involved. This allows patients from Northamptonshire and surrounding areas to receive much of their care locally.
Learn more about arranging a private urology consultation in Northampton.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquablation
Clinical Guidance and Further Information
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Carlo Bravi, Consultant Urological Surgeon.
This page provides general information about Aquablation and does not replace an individual medical assessment or professional medical advice. Treatment suitability, potential benefits, risks and recovery vary between patients and should be discussed with your urologist. If you develop urgent or severe urinary symptoms, seek prompt medical attention.
Arrange a consultation with Dr. Bravi
If you’re experiencing urinary symptoms or have concerns about your prostate health, don’t wait. Dr Bravi offers advanced diagnostic tools and a full range of treatment options to support your health and wellbeing.