No referral required. No obligation
Board Certified in Diagnostic Radiology and Interventional Radiology
Frequent Urination and BPH
Many men live with urinary symptoms for years before seeking help.
If frequent urination, weak stream, or nighttime trips to the bathroom are affecting your quality of life, you’re not alone — and you may have options beyond medication or surgery.
Our goal is to help you understand those options clearly and honestly.
Why Prostate Symptoms Happen
As men age, the prostate often enlarges. This is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
An enlarged prostate can press on the bladder and urethra, leading to symptoms such as:
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Frequent urination, especially at night
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Weak urinary stream
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Difficulty starting or stopping
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Feeling that the bladder doesn’t empty completely
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Urgency or leakage
Medications don’t always work — and surgery isn’t the only alternative.
What Is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)?
Prostate Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces prostate size without surgery.
Using live imaging:
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A small catheter is guided through the blood vessels
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Blood flow to the prostate is reduced
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The prostate gradually shrinks
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Urinary symptoms improve over time
Key points:
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❌ No surgical incision
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❌ No removal of prostate tissue
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❌ No general anesthesia in most cases
Most patients go home the same day.
This procedure is offered in Santa Barbara and serves patients across the Central Coast
Recovery and Results
Recovery is usually quicker than surgical options.
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Light activity within a few days
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Gradual improvement in urinary symptoms
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Continued improvement over several months
Many men report:
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Fewer nighttime bathroom trips
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Stronger urinary stream
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Improved quality of life
Are There Risks?
Serious complications are uncommon, but all procedures carry some risk.
Possible risks include:
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Temporary pelvic discomfort
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Bruising at the access site
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Infection (rare)
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Incomplete symptom improvement in some patients
We review risks carefully and proceed only when benefits outweigh risks.
Is PAE Right for Everyone?
PAE is not for every patient.
We consider:
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Prostate size and anatomy
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Bladder function
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Other medical conditions
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Prior prostate treatments
Some patients are better treated with medication or surgery — and we work closely with urology to guide appropriate care.
Patients in Santa Barbara and the Central Coast Seeking Prostate Artery Embolization may schedule a consultation directly.
Hospital-based physician • Board-certified • Personalized care
No obligation. We are happy to answer questions.