You might have noticed some changes: more frequent trips to the bathroom, a weaker stream, or trouble emptying your bladder completely. Maybe you’ve read that these could be signs of an enlarged prostate, and now you’re wondering whether the size of your prostate is something to be concerned about.
That’s a fair question, and it’s not always easy to get a straight answer. Prostate growth is common as you age. But when is it just part of getting older, and when is it a sign that something needs to be done?
In this blog, you’ll find out what size of prostate is dangerous, how it can affect your daily life, and what treatment options are available, including prostate artery embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive outpatient procedure available in Miami.
How Big Is Too Big? Prostate Size and When It Becomes a Problem
The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system, typically about the size of a walnut in younger adults. It surrounds the urethra just below the bladder and contributes to the production of seminal fluid. As men age, the prostate gradually increases in size. This condition is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
A prostate that reaches 30 to 40 grams is generally considered mildly enlarged. When it grows to 60 grams or more, it may start interfering with urine flow and causing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). A prostate measuring 80 to 100 grams or larger is often considered significantly enlarged, especially if it leads to obstruction, discomfort, or other medical complications.
These size guidelines are supported by medical literature, including the American Journal of Roentgenology and clinical BPH treatment guidelines from Medscape and the Urology Care Foundation.
When Prostate Size Becomes a Concern
Size matters, but it’s not the only factor. You might have a moderately enlarged prostate with few symptoms, or a smaller prostate causing significant blockage. However, doctors often take more action when the following problems appear:
- Frequent urges to urinate, especially at night
- A weak or interrupted urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Urine dribbling after finishing
- Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
- Urinary incontinence or leakage
When these symptoms are present, especially alongside a large prostate on imaging, it may be time to consider treatment options beyond lifestyle changes or medication.
Risks of an Oversized Prostate
An excessively large prostate can press against the urethra and bladder, leading to serious complications:
- Urinary retention, where you’re unable to urinate at all without a catheter
- Bladder stones, due to incomplete emptying
- Blood in urine (hematuria)
- Recurring urinary tract infections
- Kidney damage or kidney failure from backed-up urine
- Blood clots in the bladder
The prostate can continue to grow over time, especially when influenced by sex hormones and other age-related changes. Left untreated, an overly large prostate can significantly impact your quality of life.
How Prostate Size Is Measured
Your doctor may use prostate imaging techniques like transrectal ultrasound or MRI to determine prostate volume. The prostate is often divided into zones:
- Peripheral zone – where prostate cancer most often develops
- Transitional zone – typically the area most affected by BPH
- Central zone – surrounds the ejaculatory ducts
Most BPH-related growth occurs in the transitional zone, which is why size alone doesn’t always reflect how bad your symptoms are. For example, a transitional zone that’s rapidly growing may cause more blockage than a uniformly enlarged gland.
When Treatment Becomes Necessary
If symptoms worsen or imaging shows a large prostate with excess tissue compressing the urethra, your doctor may recommend treatment. Options include:
- Medication to relax the prostate or reduce hormone-driven growth
- Surgical treatments like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
- PAE procedure for enlarged prostate, a non-surgical option to shrink excess tissue
Why More Men Are Choosing PAE Treatment for BPH
Prostate artery embolization is a newer, minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. It works by reducing blood flow to targeted areas of the prostate, shrinking the gland over time.
Key features of PAE:
- Performed on an outpatient basis
- Requires only a tiny puncture site in the groin or wrist
- Uses tiny particles to block blood supply to excess prostate tissue
- Does not require general anesthesia; only local anesthesia
- Preserves sexual function in most cases
- Low risk of retrograde ejaculation
Unlike surgical interventions, PAE avoids cutting or removing tissue. That means minimal complications, reduced recovery time, and a lower chance of needing a Foley catheter long term.
Who Is a Candidate for PAE?
You might be a candidate if:
- You have moderate to severe BPH symptoms
- Your medical history makes you a poor candidate for surgery
- You’re interested in a procedure with faster recovery and fewer risks
- You want to avoid or delay traditional surgery like TURP
- You’ve experienced urine flow issues or dribbling despite medication
Most men in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are candidates for the PAE procedure, especially if prostate growth is interfering with daily life.
Monitoring Your Prostate Size and Symptoms
Regular prostate screenings, especially after age 50, are important for monitoring growth. If your doctor identifies a rapid increase in size or sees signs of potential prostate cancer, further testing may be recommended. These may include:
- PSA blood tests
- Digital rectal exam (DRE)
- Biopsy if indicated
Keep track of any changes in urinary habits, unusual urine color, or new symptoms. These updates can help your provider assess whether your condition is stable or if it’s time to explore new treatment options.
Find Out if Your Prostate Size Calls for Action
If you’ve been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate and are wondering whether it’s time to explore treatment, you’re in the right place. At Prostate Specialists of Miami, Dr. Adam S. Gropper offers non-surgical solutions like prostate artery embolization to target excess prostate tissue and improve urinary flow, often without the complications of traditional surgery.
Your online search for “prostate doctors near me” brought you here. Take the next step and call (786) 500-5347 today to schedule a personalized evaluation. If more convenient, you can complete our confidential online form.
In the meantime, you can explore your options at your own pace. Download our FREE guide, 5 Reasons to Choose Prostate Artery Embolization, and learn how this outpatient procedure could ease symptoms and support your quality of life.
Prefer a more in-depth look? Join us for our FREE Webinar: Mastering Prostate Health: The PAE Breakthrough for Men. Check it out here to reserve your spot.
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Prostate Specialists of Miami
15400 Biscayne Boulevard #104
Aventura, FL 33160
(786) 500-5347
http://prostatespecialistmiami.com/
