Guide To Getting A Hemorrhoidectomy

Recovery Process

The entire recovery process can take anywhere between two and three weeks. A type of local anesthetic is given to the patient while they are still under anesthesia. This medication provides pain relief for the first six to twelve hours that follow the hemorrhoidectomy. Prescription medication is usually given to manage pain after the hemorrhoidectomy. A bland diet and lots of fluids are recommended for the first several days following the hemorrhoidectomy. Topical numbing medication may be provided to reduce the amount of pain when the patient has a bowel movement. The use of an ice pack to help relieve pain and reduce swelling in the anal region is also recommended.

In some cases, an antibiotic is prescribed following surgery to help prevent the development of an infection at the site of the hemorrhoidectomy. Stool softener medications usually need to be taken for several weeks following the hemorrhoid surgery to allow for proper healing of the area. A patient usually goes for a follow-up examination with their surgeon between two and three weeks following the procedure to ensure everything is healing correctly without complications.