Urethroplasty Surgery in London
Urethroplasty is reconstructive surgery to repair a urethral stricture. It is often considered the most durable treatment for a narrowing that has returned after previous procedures or is too long for simpler treatments.
Although it is more involved than dilatation or optical urethrotomy, urethroplasty may offer a long-term solution for suitable men, helping avoid a cycle of repeated treatment.
What is urethroplasty?
Urethroplasty is an operation to reconstruct the narrowed part of the urethra. A urethral stricture is a narrowing caused by scar tissue in the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
Unlike urethral dilatation or optical urethrotomy, which widen or cut the scar tissue from within, urethroplasty repairs the stricture itself. The scarred section may be removed or reconstructed. In some cases, a graft of tissue may be used to widen the urethra.
This approach is why urethroplasty can offer a more durable result than repeated stretching or internal cutting. It may be considered for strictures that have returned after previous treatment, as well as longer or more complex strictures.
The procedure is carried out under anaesthetic. You will need a period of recovery and usually have a catheter in place while the repair heals. Your consultant will explain what surgery involves, the potential benefits and risks, and whether it is an appropriate option for you.
Repairing the stricture at its source
Urethroplasty aims to provide a long-term solution by repairing the scarred area rather than simply widening it.
Reconstructs the narrowed segment
The narrowed section is removed or repaired. Where needed, a tissue graft may be used to create a wider urinary channel.
Addresses the scarred area
The operation treats the stricture itself, rather than temporarily stretching or cutting through the narrowing.
A durable treatment option
Urethroplasty can provide a long-lasting result for suitable men. Individual outcomes and the possibility of recurrence vary.
Who urethroplasty may suit
Urethroplasty may be appropriate for men who:
- Have a urethral stricture that has returned after dilatation or optical urethrotomy
- Have a longer or more complex stricture
- Want to discuss a more durable alternative to repeated procedures
- Are generally well enough for reconstructive surgery
- Have been assessed by a consultant urologist with experience in urethral stricture care
What to expect
- Assessment
Your consultant will assess the location, length and nature of the stricture using tests such as urine flow measurement, urethroscopy and imaging. This helps establish whether urethroplasty is appropriate. - The surgery
The reconstruction is performed under anaesthetic. Your consultant will explain the surgical technique recommended, including whether a tissue graft may be needed. - Recovery
A catheter is usually needed for a period after surgery to support healing. Your consultant will provide clear advice about catheter care, activity, recovery and follow-up to check the repair.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for urethroplasty in London?
A durable treatment option
Urethroplasty may provide a longer-lasting solution for recurrent or complex urethral strictures.
Addresses the narrowing directly
The procedure reconstructs the scarred area, rather than relying on repeated stretching or internal cuts.
May reduce the need for repeat procedures
For suitable men, urethroplasty can help avoid the ongoing cycle of dilatation or optical urethrotomy.
Consultant-led discussion in London
Your consultant will explain whether reconstructive surgery is appropriate and guide you through the procedure, recovery and follow-up.
From repeated procedures to a definitive repair
Urethroplasty is typically considered after recurrence following less invasive treatment or where the stricture is too long for simple dilation.
Not every first or short stricture requires reconstruction. For selected men, minimally invasive options are appropriate. Where strictures recur or are complex, urethroplasty often offers the most durable solution.
The aim is to break the cycle of repeated temporary procedures and restore reliable urinary flow.
Frequently asked questions
Why might urethroplasty be recommended instead of dilatation or optical urethrotomy?
Dilatation and optical urethrotomy can provide relief by widening the stricture, but the narrowing can return. Urethroplasty reconstructs the scarred section and may offer a more durable option for recurrent, longer or more complex strictures.
Is urethroplasty major surgery?
It is more involved than dilatation or optical urethrotomy and is performed under anaesthetic. You will need time to recover and usually have a catheter in place while the repair heals. Your consultant will explain what this may involve in your case.
Does every urethral stricture need urethroplasty?
No. A first, short stricture may be suitable for a less invasive procedure. Urethroplasty is generally considered where a stricture is recurrent, longer or more complex.
What is recovery like after urethroplasty?
Recovery varies depending on the type of repair and your individual circumstances. A catheter is usually required for a period following surgery. Your consultant will give you clear advice on wound care, activity, work, driving and follow-up.
Can a urethral stricture return after urethroplasty?
It is possible for a stricture to return after any treatment. Urethroplasty is designed to provide a durable repair, but your consultant will discuss the likelihood of recurrence and the follow-up plan in your individual situation.
Consider a more lasting solution
If you have had repeated treatment for a urethral stricture, urethroplasty may be an option worth discussing. Our consultant urologists can assess your stricture and explain the most appropriate next steps.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
