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Prostate Artery Embolization vs. Traditional BPH Surgery: A Western New York Patient Guide

Published May 23rd, 2026 by Great Lakes Medical Imaging

For men in Buffalo and across Western New York who are exploring options for an enlarged prostate, treatment decisions can feel overwhelming. Many men are surprised to learn that there are minimally invasive alternatives to traditional prostate surgery, and that one of those options — Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) — can be performed by an interventional radiologist without major surgical incisions.

Understanding how PAE compares to traditional surgical treatments can help men have more informed conversations with their healthcare providers. At Great Lakes Medical Imaging (GLMI), our team supports men throughout Buffalo, Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and surrounding WNY communities with advanced imaging and minimally invasive interventional radiology services.

A Brief Look at BPH

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common condition in which the prostate gland enlarges with age. As the gland grows, it can press on the urethra and contribute to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, weak stream, or difficulty fully emptying the bladder.

The dedicated Prostate Artery Embolization page outlines the basics of BPH and how PAE works as a minimally invasive option.

Why Treatment Options Matter

BPH is highly individual. The right treatment depends on prostate size, severity of symptoms, overall health, and personal preferences. Options range from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures and traditional surgery.

Knowing the strengths and considerations of each option supports more confident decision-making. If you have questions or want to learn more, you can contact GLMI at any time.

What Is Prostate Artery Embolization?

Prostate Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by a board-certified Interventional Radiologist. The procedure typically follows these general steps:

A small access point is created, usually in the wrist or groin
A thin catheter is guided to the arteries that supply blood to the prostate
Tiny particles are introduced through the catheter to reduce blood flow to the gland
Over time, reduced blood flow can lead to a gradual decrease in prostate size and improvement in symptoms

Because PAE does not involve cutting through the urethra or removing prostate tissue, it offers a different recovery profile compared with traditional surgery.

What Are Traditional BPH Surgeries?

Traditional surgical treatments for BPH have been performed for many years and remain important options for many men. Common surgical approaches may include:

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): A long-established surgical procedure to remove excess prostate tissue through the urethra.
Laser-based procedures: Various laser technologies can be used to reduce or remove prostate tissue.
Open or robotic prostatectomy: In select cases involving very large prostates or other clinical factors.

The right surgical approach depends on individual circumstances, and decisions should always be made with a qualified provider who knows your medical history.

Key Differences Between PAE and Traditional Surgery

While each man’s situation is unique, some general distinctions between PAE and traditional surgical approaches include:

Approach: PAE uses a small catheter-based access point. Traditional surgery typically involves working directly within the urethra or, in rare cases, an open or robotic approach.
Anesthesia: PAE is often performed under conscious sedation or local anesthesia. Many surgical options use general or spinal anesthesia.
Hospital stay: PAE is often performed on an outpatient basis. Some surgical options involve a hospital stay.
Recovery: Recovery profiles vary, but PAE generally avoids the urinary catheter use and pelvic recovery often associated with traditional surgical procedures.
Tissue removal: PAE shrinks the prostate by reducing blood flow rather than physically removing tissue.

These distinctions are general. Specific outcomes and considerations should always be discussed with your interventional radiologist or urologist.

Who Might Be a Candidate for PAE?

PAE is one option among several. Candidacy depends on factors such as prostate size, symptom severity, overall health, and individual goals. PAE may be especially appealing to men who:

Want to explore minimally invasive options
Prefer to avoid major surgery if possible
Have certain medical conditions that influence surgical risk
Are looking for an outpatient-style procedure

An interventional radiologist can review your individual situation and help determine whether PAE is appropriate for you. The IR Team page introduces our interventional radiology specialists.

The Role of Imaging in BPH Evaluation

Imaging is often part of the evaluation process for BPH. Studies such as ultrasound or MRI can help assess prostate size and structure when clinically indicated. GLMI provides a comprehensive range of Imaging Services to support thorough evaluation.

Working With a Multidisciplinary Team

For many men, decisions about BPH treatment involve more than one provider. A primary care physician, urologist, and interventional radiologist may all play important roles. This team-based approach helps ensure that men understand all available options and choose the path that best fits their goals.

Reading patient stories on the IR Testimonials page can also offer insight into other patients’ experiences. The FAQ page can help answer general questions before scheduling a consultation.

What to Discuss With Your Provider

Some helpful topics to discuss with your provider when considering BPH treatment include:

Your specific symptoms and how they affect daily life
Any other health conditions you have
Your goals for treatment and recovery
Concerns about anesthesia, hospital stay, or recovery time
How different treatments may interact with your lifestyle and routines

Open conversation supports a more personalized treatment plan.

Convenient Care Across Western New York

As Western New York Minimally Invasive Specialists, GLMI offers care across multiple convenient locations:

To learn more about PAE or to discuss whether it may be an option for you, you can schedule a consultation at the location nearest you.

Informed Decisions Lead to Better Outcomes

For men managing the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, knowing that minimally invasive options exist can be empowering. Prostate Artery Embolization is one of several modern approaches that may offer relief without major surgery. The right choice depends on your unique situation, and your healthcare team is the best resource for navigating those decisions.

For men across Buffalo and Western New York who want to explore modern, patient-centered options for BPH, the team at GLMI is here to help. Visit our Interventional Radiology overview or contact GLMI today.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or appropriate diagnostic testing. Individual health circumstances vary, and decisions about imaging or treatment should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.

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