Medically reviewed by Dr. Lamia Gabal, MD, FPMRS, Medical Director · Last updated September 2026
Rezūm is an in-office, minimally invasive treatment for BPH that uses the natural energy stored in water vapor to reduce excess prostate tissue — without cutting, and typically without affecting sexual function. Most patients return to normal activity within a few days.
What is Rezūm water vapor therapy?
Rezūm treats an enlarged prostate by delivering small, controlled bursts of sterile water vapor directly into the tissue that’s compressing the urethra and causing BPH symptoms. As the vapor cools, it releases its stored thermal energy into the targeted tissue, causing the excess cells to die off and be gradually reabsorbed by the body over the following weeks. The result is a smaller prostate and a wider urinary channel, without removing tissue surgically.
The procedure is FDA-cleared, performed in-office in about 15–20 minutes, and does not require general anesthesia for most patients.
How the procedure works
- A local anesthetic and light oral sedation are used — no incisions, no general anesthesia for most patients.
- A small scope is used to guide the treatment, with no cutting involved.
- Several brief injections of water vapor are delivered to the enlarged tissue, based on the size and shape of your prostate.
- Most patients go home the same day with a temporary catheter, typically removed within about a week.
Watch: How it works — Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy
Who is a candidate for Rezūm?
Rezūm is generally a good option for men whose BPH symptoms — frequent urination, weak stream, incomplete emptying, nighttime waking — haven’t responded well enough to medication, or who want to avoid the side effects some BPH medications carry, including effects on sexual function. Prostate size, symptom severity, and overall health all factor into candidacy, which is why we start with an in-office evaluation before recommending it.
Preparing for your Rezūm procedure
- 48 hours before and after treatment: avoid alcohol, coffee, and caffeinated beverages.
- The night before: eat a light meal only.
- The day of your procedure: have a light breakfast (such as toast, juice, or milk), and continue your regular prescribed medications unless told otherwise. You’ll need a driver if sedation with Valium is used; if Pronox (laughing gas) is used instead, you’re able to drive yourself home.
- Blood thinners: stop anticoagulants and aspirin 7 days before your procedure. Eliquis may be paused 3 days before if your prescribing doctor approves. Complete any prescribed medications given to you at your prior visit.
Your recovery timeline after Rezūm
Because Rezūm works by triggering a natural healing response in the treated tissue, it’s common to notice a temporary increase in symptoms before you feel the benefits — this is a normal part of the healing process, not a setback.
- Weeks 1–3 (inflammatory phase): the treated tissue is inflamed and healing. It’s common to experience burning or stinging with urination, increased urinary frequency, and increased urgency during this window.
- Weeks 4–6: initial inflammation begins to subside, and most patients start noticing a stronger urinary stream and better bladder emptying.
- Full results: the maximum benefit of the procedure is generally reached around 3 months after treatment.
Catheter care after Rezūm
Because the procedure causes temporary prostate swelling, a catheter is used to make sure your bladder can drain properly during the initial recovery phase.
- Duration: the catheter typically stays in place for 5 to 7 days.
- Care: always keep the drainage bag positioned below the level of your bladder, and avoid pulling or putting tension on the catheter tubing.
- Removal: you’ll return to the office on your scheduled date to have the catheter removed and complete a voiding trial.
Managing common symptoms during recovery
Burning or stinging with urination: stay well hydrated, use prescribed medication as directed, and avoid bladder irritants like caffeine, carbonated drinks, and spicy or acidic foods.
Blood in the urine: intermittent pink or tea-colored urine is common — increasing your fluid intake helps flush the bladder.
Urgency and frequency: avoid bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods for at least 14 days after your procedure.
Insurance, cash-pay & financing
Rezūm is covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans when medically indicated, and our team handles prior authorization on your behalf. For patients without insurance coverage, the initial workup (office visit, TRUS, cystoscopy, and UroCuff) is $2,034, and cash pricing for the Rezūm procedure itself is discussed directly with you at your appointment. Financing is also available through CareCredit and other patient financing options, so cost doesn’t have to be a barrier to getting evaluated.
Rezūm frequently asked questions
Is Rezūm painful?
Most patients tolerate Rezūm well. Local anesthesia and light oral sedation are used, and many patients describe mild pressure or urgency during the procedure rather than sharp pain. Some discomfort during the first few days of recovery, particularly while urinating, is common and typically manageable.
How long does the Rezūm procedure take?
The procedure itself typically takes about 15–20 minutes, performed in-office. Including preparation and recovery time before you go home, plan for a longer total visit.
When will I see results after Rezūm?
Rezūm works gradually — the treated tissue is reabsorbed by the body over several weeks, so symptom improvement typically develops over that time rather than immediately. Some men notice initial changes within the first few weeks, with continued improvement over the following months.
Will I need a catheter after Rezūm?
A temporary catheter is common after Rezūm, typically removed within about a week. This allows the treated tissue to heal and swelling to subside before normal urination resumes.
Can Rezūm affect sexual function?
Rezūm carries a notably lower risk of affecting sexual function compared to some other BPH treatments, including certain medications and surgical options. This is one of the most common reasons patients specifically ask about Rezūm — your doctor can discuss your individual risk factors at your consultation.
When can I resume physical activity after Rezūm?
Most patients are cleared to resume physical activity at around 2 weeks post-procedure. Your care team will confirm the right timeline for you based on your individual recovery.
When can I resume sexual activity after Rezūm?
Most patients can typically resume sexual activity around 2 weeks after the procedure. As with physical activity, your care team will confirm what’s right for your specific recovery.
Will I need time off work after Rezūm?
Many patients need up to 3 weeks to allow for a full recovery before returning to work, though this varies depending on the nature of your job and your individual healing. Your care team can help you plan around your specific circumstances.
Meet the physicians who perform Rezūm
Find out if Rezūm is right for you
A same-week consultation with our team is the fastest way to know whether Rezūm, PAE, or another approach fits your symptoms best.
Call or text (949) 284-2792 Or take the 2-minute I-PSS assessment first →