5 Benefits of PAE for Enlarged Prostate

November 19, 2025 – Medically reviewed by Alex Kim, MD

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If you’re one of the millions of men experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate—also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—you know how disruptive it can be. Frequent urination, weak urine flow, and nighttime trips to the bathroom can significantly affect your quality of life. Fortunately, Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) offers a safe, minimally invasive way to relieve symptoms and restore comfort without the risks of major surgery.

Below, we’ll explore five benefits of PAE and why it’s becoming a top choice for men seeking effective, lasting relief from BPH symptoms.

1. Minimally Invasive Treatment
Unlike traditional prostate surgeries like TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate), PAE is performed through a tiny incision in the groin or wrist. Using advanced imaging, an interventional radiologist guides a catheter to the arteries supplying the prostate and blocks blood flow to reduce its size.

Benefits of PAE:

• No general anesthesia
• No large incisions or stitches
• Reduced recovery time

PAE is also an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day.

2. Quick Recovery and Minimal Downtime
PAE is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing most patients to go home on the same day. Recovery is significantly faster than with traditional surgery, with many patients returning to normal activities within just a few days.

There’s little to no pain after the procedure—most men only experience mild discomfort or pelvic pressure that resolves quickly.

3. Effective, Lasting Symptom Relief
Studies show that PAE can significantly improve urinary symptoms and reduce prostate volume for years following treatment. Most patients notice improvements such as:

• Stronger urine flow
• Fewer nighttime awakenings
• Reduced urgency and frequency

The results are long-lasting and comparable to surgical outcomes, making PAE a proven option for BPH relief.

4. Preserves Sexual Function
One of the most common concerns men have about prostate surgery is the risk of side effects like erectile dysfunction.

With PAE, the risks are much lower. Because the procedure targets only the arteries feeding the prostate and not the prostate itself, sexual function is typically preserved.

5. Safe for a Wide Range of Patients
PAE is a great choice for men who:

• Want to avoid surgery or are not surgical candidates due to age or medical conditions
• Have larger prostates that may not respond well to medications
• Prefer a non-surgical, image-guided approach

It’s a clinically proven, FDA-approved procedure that continues to gain recognition as a safe and effective solution for BPH.

Is PAE Right for You?

If you’re dealing with urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, PAE may offer relief without the need for invasive surgery or extended downtime.
To learn more about Prostate Artery Embolization and find out if it’s right for you, schedule a consultation at the National Vascular Physician location closest to you.