Hemorrhoid Surgery: What to Expect and When It's Needed
If you're dealing with painful, bleeding hemorrhoids that don't improve with home treatments, surgery might be the next step. In this article, we’ll break down what hemorrhoid surgery involves, why it’s done, and what you should know before going in. Whether you're looking for relief or exploring your options, this guide will help you understand how surgery can help manage severe cases of hemorrhoids.
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| Hemorrhoid Surgery: What to Expect and When It's Needed |
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels near the anus or lower rectum.
They can appear inside the anus (internal hemorrhoids) or around the outside (external hemorrhoids).
While many people have hemorrhoids at some point, not all of them cause problems.
But if they become painful, swollen, or bleed heavily, surgery may be needed to remove them.
How Is Hemorrhoid Surgery Done?
Hemorrhoid removal is usually done in a doctor’s office or a hospital. Most people go home the same day.
The method used depends on how big the hemorrhoids are, where they are located, and how severe the symptoms are.
Before the surgery, you’ll either get local anesthesia (numbing medicine) or general anesthesia (medicine that puts you to sleep).
The goal is to make sure you don’t feel pain during the procedure.
There are several ways to treat or remove hemorrhoids:
Rubber band ligation – A tiny rubber band is wrapped around the hemorrhoid to cut off blood flow, which makes it shrink.
- Stapling – The hemorrhoid is stapled to stop its blood supply.
- Surgical removal – The hemorrhoid is cut out with a scalpel. Sometimes stitches are needed.
- Injection (sclerotherapy) – A special chemical is injected to shrink the hemorrhoid.
- Laser treatment – A laser is used to burn and remove the hemorrhoid.
When Is Hemorrhoid Surgery Necessary?
Mild hemorrhoids often go away with home care and natural home remedies. Simple changes can help, such as:
- Eating more fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drinking more water
- Avoiding straining during bowel movements
- Using over-the-counter creams or pads
If these changes don’t help and you're still dealing with pain, bleeding, or swelling, your doctor might suggest surgery as a more permanent solution.
What Are the Risks of a hemorrhoid surgery?
Like any surgery, hemorrhoid surgery comes with some risks. These may include:
- Reactions to anesthesia (such as breathing issues or allergic reactions)
- Bleeding or infection
- Blood clots
- Difficulty urinating due to pain after surgery
- Mild leakage of stool (though this is rare and usually temporary)
Most people recover well, especially when they follow their doctor’s instructions after the procedure.
Conclusion
Hemorrhoid surgery can provide lasting relief when other treatments fail. If you're struggling with constant pain or bleeding from hemorrhoids, talk to your healthcare provider about whether surgery is right for you.
With today’s medical options, many procedures are quick and done on the same day—with minimal downtime.
For long-term relief, focus on healthy habits like eating more fiber foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining in the bathroom.
Medical Sources
1. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Hemorrhoids
2. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons – Hemorrhoids
3. Mayo Clinic – Hemorrhoid Surgery (Hemorrhoidectomy)
4. Cleveland Clinic – Hemorrhoids: Types, Causes, and Treatments
5. Johns Hopkins Medicine – Hemorrhoidectomy
