Relief at Last: Innovative Treatment Makes a Longtime Sufferer Feel Brand New

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can significantly impact daily life. For nearly a decade, John Sandalena, 65, of North Babylon lived with the challenges caused by an enlarged prostate, from planning outings around bathroom access to avoiding activities altogether.

During those years, John was treated with medication to manage his symptoms. While the medication helped him remain functional, it didn’t address the underlying problem. “My previous doctor was more interested in making sure that I was taking my medication than anything else,” John recalls. Over time, the medication became less effective, forcing him to double his dosage just to get through the day. John knew this wasn’t a long-term solution.

Determined to find answers, John did his own research and discovered Christopher Atalla, DO, a urologic oncologist and Director of Men’s Health at Good Samaritan University Hospital. After ordering imaging studies, Dr. Atalla diagnosed John with a significantly obstructing prostate, hindering his urine flow.

Traditional surgical treatments, such as TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) or a simple prostatectomy, are effective but invasive and can carry a higher risk of unwanted side effects. Fortunately, Dr. Atalla offered John a less invasive alternative, the UroLift® System. This procedure uses small implants to lift the prostate away from the urethra, relieving pressure and improving urinary flow. UroLift typically allows for a quicker recovery and provides long-lasting symptom relief.

“I was nervous about getting surgery, but Dr. Atalla’s confidence really put my mind at ease,” John said. “He told me he’d performed this procedure many times, and that made me feel very comfortable. Not just Dr. Atalla, all the Good Samaritan staff really made me feel like I was in good hands.”

Dr. Atalla performed the UroLift procedure in August 2025. The procedure went smoothly, and after just a few hours of recovery, John was able to return home the same day. Within weeks, he noticed a dramatic improvement.

“I felt normal again — better than normal, actually,” he said. The results have been so positive that he has since recommended the procedure to a friend who is experiencing similar symptoms.

Today, John says the difference is life-changing. “I feel like I’m eighteen again!”