Hemorrhoid Surgery
Learn more about how Schneck can help you become hemorrhoid-free and return to your best life.
What is Hemorrhoid Surgery?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. Those veins are problematic when they become swollen and distended, which can cause severe discomfort. While most hemorrhoids can clear up on their own, some will persist and require surgery to prevent further complications.
This condition is very common, affecting 1 in 20 Americans. Fortunately, hemorrhoid surgery successfully removes the affected blood vessels or restricts blood supply to decrease swelling. Paired with dietary and other lifestyle changes, surgery can accomplish long-term healing.
Types of Hemorrhoid Surgeries
We will determine which type of surgery is best for you based on the size and severity of your hemorrhoids. Different types of hemorrhoid procedures include:
Placing a small rubber band around an internal hemorrhoid to restrict blood flow and cause it to fall off.
Cutting out internal or external hemorrhoids using scissors or a laser alongside a numbing anesthetic.
What to Expect During Surgery
The first step to addressing hemorrhoids is to discuss treatment options with us. Our expert healthcare providers will determine the type and severity of your condition to create the best plan of action.
We ask that you stop taking any medications and limit food and drink 6-12 hours before surgery. During your procedure, you’ll be given general anesthesia to numb the area. Surgery takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, and most patients go home the same day.
Hemorrhoid Symptoms
Most hemorrhoids resolve without interference or after a short period of home care. However, if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms in or around the anus without improvement, it may be time to consider surgery.
Extreme itching
Blood in stool
Lumps or swelling
Severe pain
Bulging veins
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
The veins around the anus stretch under pressure and may bulge or swell when that pressure becomes excessive. Some causes of increased pressure include:
Genetics
Pregnancy hormones
Aging over 50
Chronic diarrhea
Continuous sitting
Low-fiber diet
Regular heavy lifting
Anal intercourse
Being overweight
Bowel movement straining
Your Recovery Journey
Recovery Timeline
After surgery, you will be completely numb for several hours and will be given a pain prescription to take after the anesthesia wears off. Some patients return to normal life in just a few days while others take two to four weeks for full recovery.
Lifestyle Changes
During recovery, we suggest that you opt for soft foods such as soup, pasta, smoothies, and potatoes. We also recommend that you avoid lifting any heavy objects. Some additional things you can do for added comfort include frequent warm baths, daily walks, stool softeners, ice packs, and fiber supplements.
Postoperative Symptoms
Please note that it’s normal to experience light bleeding and discharge during bowel movements for up to two months after surgery. If you’re experiencing excessive blood loss, extreme and worsening pain, infection, or fever, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Get Back to Comfort
Our surgeons at Schneck have the expertise to determine the best solution for your long-term health. Talk to your provider about the best option for you.
Your Providers
Put your health into the hands of the best surgeons at Schneck.
Joyce R. Iwema, MD
General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery View Info »
Antonio Spates, MD
General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery View Info »
Amanda M. Dick, MD
General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery View Info »