Medically reviewed by Mr Maneesh Ghei, Consultant Urological Surgeon (GMC: 5208045)
Prostate enlargement (BPH) is one of the most common conditions affecting men over 50 — and one of the most successfully treated. If urinary symptoms are affecting your sleep, confidence or daily life, a private specialist assessment with Mr Maneesh Ghei can give you a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, typically within a week.
Key Takeaways
- BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate — it does not increase your risk of prostate cancer.
- Symptoms include weak urine flow, frequent urination, urgency and night-time trips to the bathroom.
- Treatments range from lifestyle changes and medication to minimally invasive procedures such as UroLift and TURP.
- Early diagnosis prevents serious complications including urinary retention and kidney damage.
- Private consultations from £250 — no GP referral required, same-week availability.
Do you recognise these symptoms?
BPH symptoms typically fall into two categories. Most men experience a mix of both.
Obstructive
- Weak or slow urine stream
- Having to wait to get started
- Straining to pass urine
- Feeling of incomplete emptying
Irritative
- Needing to urinate frequently
- Sudden urgency to go
- Getting up at night to urinate
- Leaking before reaching the toilet
Important: If you suddenly cannot urinate at all, seek medical attention immediately. Untreated BPH can also lead to urinary infections, bladder stones and kidney damage over time.
Private Prostate Specialist, London
Recognise these symptoms? Get a definitive answer.
Mr Maneesh Ghei sees new patients privately with same-week availability. Full consultation from £250 — no GP referral required. Insured and self-funding patients welcome.
How is BPH diagnosed?
Mr Ghei will use a combination of the following, tailored to your symptoms:
01
Digital Rectal Examination
Physical assessment of prostate size and condition
02
Urine Flow Study + Ultrasound
Measures flow strength and residual urine in the bladder
04
Cystoscopy
Camera examination of the bladder and urethra where needed
Treatment options for prostate enlargement
The right treatment depends on your symptoms, age and preferences. Mr Ghei will recommend the best option after a full assessment.
Medical
- Alpha-blockers — relax muscles to improve flow
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors — shrink the prostate over time
- Combination therapy — both together for greater effect
Surgical / Minimally Invasive
Lifestyle
- Reduce fluids in the evening
- Cut caffeine and alcohol
- Zinc supplementation
- Saw palmetto extract
Lifestyle changes alone are rarely sufficient for moderate to severe BPH.
Your Specialist
Mr Maneesh Ghei
Consultant Urological Surgeon | MS MRCSEd MD FRCS (Urol) | GMC: 5208045
Mr Maneesh Ghei is a consultant urological surgeon with NHS and private practice across four London hospitals. He specialises in prostate conditions including BPH, prostatitis and prostate cancer, and is Lead Cancer Clinician for Urology at the Whittington Hospital.
- The Wellington Hospital (HCA Healthcare UK), St John’s Wood
- Nuffield Health Highgate Hospital
- HCA Healthcare UK Elstree Waterfront
- NHS Lead Cancer Clinician, Whittington Hospital
Same-Week Appointments
From £250
FRCS (Urol) Qualified
What patients say
“Mr Ghei has a superb bedside manner, extensive knowledge of his area of medicine and is an extremely thorough medical practitioner.”
Mervin Hotz, verified patient
“The treatment at the hands of Mr Ghei has been excellent. I am impressed by his insight and empathy quite apart from his considerable surgical skills.”
Dr Emil Landes, verified patient
“Explains exactly what’s going on — very calming, very respectful — and takes time ensuring patient understanding.”
Verified Doctify review, April 2026
Private Urology Clinic, London
Ready to get assessed? Same-week appointments available.
Book a private consultation with Mr Maneesh Ghei at The Wellington Hospital, St John’s Wood, or at our other London locations. From £250. No GP referral required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can prostate enlargement lead to prostate cancer?
No. BPH is a benign (non-cancerous) condition and does not increase your risk of prostate cancer. The two conditions can coexist, which is why a PSA blood test is recommended when symptoms first develop.
Are lifestyle changes enough to treat BPH?
Lifestyle changes can help manage mild symptoms but are rarely sufficient on their own once symptoms become moderate to severe. Medical or minimally invasive treatment is typically needed at that stage.
How does BPH affect sexual health?
BPH itself does not cause erectile dysfunction, but some medications — particularly 5 alpha reductase inhibitors — can affect libido and ejaculation. Mr Ghei will discuss these considerations when recommending treatment.
What is the role of hormones in prostate enlargement?
Ageing changes testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, which stimulate prostate cell growth. This is why hormone-based medications such as 5 alpha reductase inhibitors can be effective.
When should I see a doctor about BPH symptoms?
Seek assessment if symptoms are disrupting your sleep or daily life, if you notice blood in the urine, or if you suddenly cannot urinate. Untreated BPH can lead to urinary retention and kidney damage. See the NHS guidance on prostate enlargement for further information.
Can BPH be prevented?
There is no guaranteed prevention as BPH is largely driven by age and hormonal changes. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and limiting alcohol and caffeine may reduce the risk or severity of symptoms.
Prefer to speak to someone directly?
Our team is available Monday to Friday. No GP referral required.