Rezum is a minimally invasive treatment used to relieve urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. The procedure uses steam (water vapour) to target and shrink excess prostate tissue, relieving pressure on the urethra and improving urine flow.
There are no permanent implants, no surgical cuts, and no tissue is physically removed during the procedure. The treatment preserves surrounding structures such as nerves and the bladder neck.
How does the procedure work?
A small device is inserted through the urethra into the prostate. Very small amounts of steam are released into the prostate tissue. When the steam contacts the prostate cells it condenses and releases energy, destroying the treated tissue. Over time, the body absorbs this tissue, reducing the size of the prostate and relieving symptoms.
As the prostate shrinks and swelling reduces, urinary flow gradually improves. Healing continues for approximately 3 months.
Preparing for your Rezum
You will be contacted 1–2 weeks prior to your scheduled procedure with specific fasting instructions and hospital admission details. You will also receive a link to complete your online admission forms.
It is important to advise the rooms if you are taking any blood thinners or any prescribed medications for diabetes or weight loss purposes. The rooms can be contacted on 9329 1197
On the day
The procedure is typically performed as a day surgery which takes about 30 minutes. You may be given either a general anaesthetic or a local anaesthetic depending on your discussion with Prof Lawrentschuk.
Please keep in mind, while it is standard for patients to be discharged on the day, some may be required to stay overnight.
Following your procedure
Recovering at home
Once at home, you may still experience mild discomfort; this is part of the healing process. To ensure a speedy and smooth recovery, please take note of the following:
First 1–2 Weeks:
- Discomfort at the catheter site or tip of the penis is common. Over-the-counter pain relief can help ease this pain.
- Erections during sleep may occur—ensure the catheter has some slack to avoid tension.
- Swelling may temporarily worsen your original symptoms for 2–3 weeks.
3–4 Weeks:
- You may still notice frequency, urgency, or a sensation of incomplete emptying.
- Small pieces of tissue or blood in the urine/semen may appear. To manage this, ensure you drink plenty of water.
- Burning during urination and occasional blood or fragments may still occur.
5–6 Weeks:
- Most men notice more good days than bad. Occasional discomfort may persist but should settle.
- You may notice improvement in your stream and fewer trips to the toilet at night.
While this is a rough timeline, it is important to remember that each individual will experience a different path to recovery. The Rezum recovery process persists for 3 months post-procedure.
Possible risks
As with all medical procedures, there are potential risks. While complications are uncommon, you may experience:
- Urinary tract infection (UTI): Usually managed with antibiotics.
- Bleeding: Less than with TURP, but mild blood in urine or semen is expected.
- Ejaculatory changes: About 1 in 32 men may notice reduced or absent ejaculation (“dry orgasm”).
- Incontinence: Rare and usually temporary.
- Urgency or frequency: May temporarily worsen before improving.
Do the effects of Rezum treatment fade?
Most men continue to experience symptom relief for at least 5 years following treatment. If needed, the procedure can be repeated.
Returning to normal activities
You can usually return to work and regular activities whenever you feel comfortable doing so. However, to minimise the severity of side effects, Prof. Lawrentschuk advises the following:
- Avoid heavy lifting, cycling, or strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks. Gentle exercise (e.g., walking) is encouraged.
- It is safe to resume sex once the catheter is removed and you feel comfortable. To reduce the risk of infection, it’s best to wait a few weeks.
When to seek help
Please contact Professor Lawrentschuk’s rooms at 9329 1197 or attend your nearest Emergency Department if you experience:
- Heavy bleeding (bright red) or large clots in the urine that do not resolve with increased hydration.
- Inability to urinate after catheter removal.
- Fever above 38°C, chills, or severe abdominal pain.
- Persistent or worsening burning or pain with urination.
Follow-up and monitoring
You will usually have a follow-up appointment with Prof Lawrentschuk within 6-8 weeks after surgery to assess your recovery, ensure the urinary symptoms are improving, and evaluate the need for further treatment or medication.
If you have any queries, please use the contact details below:
MONDAY to FRDAY 8:30AM–4:00PM
Call the rooms at 9329 1197
AFTER HOURS
Contact Epworth Emergency on 03 9426 6666 or Royal Melbourne Emergency on 03 9342 7000.
You can also page Prof Lawrentschuk on 03 9387 1000.
For appointments and enquiries:
CONSULTING LOCATIONS
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