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

A doctor chats with a patient

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

woman in pain on couch with hand on butt

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.


Your Providers

Put your health into the hands of the best surgeons at Schneck.

Doctor Joyce Iwema

Joyce R. Iwema, MD

General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery View Info »
Headshot of Dr. Antonio Spates

Antonio Spates, MD

General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery View Info »
Doctor Amanda Dick

Amanda M. Dick, MD

General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery View Info »
Doctor Maurer

Susan Maurer, MD

General Surgeon, da Vinci Surgery View Info »