Specialized Men’s Health Care for Expats and Visitors

If you're a man over the age of 40 experiencing a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, or frequent nighttime bathroom visits, you may be dealing with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH – 전립선비대증, jeollipseon bidaejjeung), also known as prostate enlargement. While not cancerous, BPH can significantly impact quality of life if left untreated. The good news? Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic in Korea offer expert evaluation and treatment using cutting-edge diagnostics and minimally invasive solutions tailored to men’s health.

What Is BPH and What Causes It?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that occurs naturally with age. As the prostate grows, it can press against the urethra and bladder, obstructing the flow of urine and causing bothersome urinary symptoms.

Common Symptoms of BPH:

• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Difficulty starting urination
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Frequent urination (especially at night – nocturia)
• Urgency with difficulty holding urine
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

What Contributes to BPH?

• Age-related hormonal changes (especially involving dihydrotestosterone – DHT)
• Genetics and family history
• Lifestyle and dietary factors
• Coexisting conditions like obesity or diabetes

BPH is extremely common, affecting over 50% of men in their 50s and up to 90% by age 80.

Diagnosis of BPH in Korea: Fast, Accurate, and Discreet

At clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic, BPH evaluation is straightforward and non-invasive, typically completed within a single visit.

1. Medical Interview and Symptom Assessment:
   The doctor will ask about urinary habits and use standardized tools like the IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) questionnaire.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE):
   A quick physical exam to estimate prostate size and check for irregularities.
3. Urinalysis (소변 검사):
   Rules out infection or blood in the urine.
4. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test:
   Screens for elevated PSA levels, which may indicate prostate inflammation or cancer risk.
5. Bladder Ultrasound / Post-Void Residual Scan:
   Measures how well you empty your bladder and detects urinary retention.
6. Uroflowmetry and Pressure Testing:
   Evaluates urine flow speed and bladder pressure to distinguish BPH from other urinary conditions.

Treatment Options for Prostate Enlargement in Korea

BPH treatment in Korea follows a personalized, stepwise approach—from lifestyle management to advanced outpatient procedures:

1. Watchful Waiting (Mild Symptoms):
Monitoring symptoms with lifestyle changes such as reducing caffeine/alcohol, timing fluid intake, and bladder training.

2. Medication-Based Management:

• Alpha Blockers (e.g., tamsulosin, alfuzosin): Relax the prostate and bladder neck to improve flow.
• 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride): Shrink the prostate over time by altering hormone levels.
• Combination Therapy: For men with larger prostates and more severe symptoms.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:

• Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): Gold-standard surgery that removes part of the prostate through the urethra.
• Laser Therapy (HoLEP or GreenLight): Vaporizes or enucleates excess tissue with minimal bleeding.
• Urolift Implants: A non-destructive approach that lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra.
• Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE): Minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure to reduce prostate size by limiting blood flow.

Why Choose a Korean Urology Clinic Like Gangnam J for BPH?

• Male Urologic Expertise: Specialists are highly experienced in managing prostate conditions with modern methods.
• Quick Access to Testing: Clinics offer same-day ultrasound, PSA testing, and uroflowmetry.
• Minimally Invasive Options: Korean clinics lead in offering low-downtime treatments like laser therapy and embolization.
• English-Friendly Services: Especially in Gangnam, clinics often provide bilingual staff and physicians.
• Comfort and Privacy: Male-focused care in a professional, discreet setting designed for international patients.

Cost of BPH Treatment in Korea

With NHIS Coverage:

• Consultation: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
• PSA Test: ₩15,000 – ₩30,000
• Ultrasound/Uroflowmetry: ₩10,000 – ₩40,000
• Medications (monthly): ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
• TURP or Laser Procedure (co-pay): ₩200,000 – ₩400,000
  Total (with NHIS): ₩30,000 – ₩500,000 depending on treatment stage

Without NHIS (Out-of-Pocket):

• Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• PSA Test: ₩30,000 – ₩60,000
• Imaging and Flow Testing: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Medications: ₩10,000 – ₩30,000/month
• TURP or Laser Surgery: ₩1,500,000 – ₩3,000,000
  Total (without NHIS): ₩150,000 – ₩3,000,000+ depending on method and condition severity

When to Seek Care for Prostate Enlargement

You should see a urologist if you experience:

• Difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow
• Frequent or urgent urination disrupting daily life
• Waking multiple times at night to urinate
• A weak stream or dribbling
• Sensation of incomplete emptying
• Blood in urine or urinary retention



Living with BPH doesn’t mean living with discomfort. Korea’s advanced medical system—especially at clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic—offers accurate diagnostics and minimally invasive treatment options for prostate enlargement. With English-speaking staff, modern facilities, and expert physicians, you’ll find peace of mind and symptom relief in a professional, supportive environment. Early evaluation means better long-term outcomes—don’t wait to take control of your urinary health.