Piles Surgery: What You Need to Know Before Choosing the Right Treatment

Piles, or haemorrhoids, are one of the most common anorectal problems today. Long working hours, sitting for prolonged periods, low-fibre diets, and stress have made them increasingly common among young adults as well. While many cases improve with lifestyle changes and medications, some patients eventually require surgery for long-term relief.

If you’ve been advised piles surgery or are considering it, here’s a complete, easy-to-understand guide to help you make the right decision.

What Are Piles?

Piles are swollen blood vessels in the anal canal. They can be:

• Internal piles – usually painless but may cause bleeding.

• External piles – painful, especially if thrombosed.

• Mixed piles – a combination of both.

Common symptoms include:

• Bright red bleeding during stool

• Pain or discomfort while passing stool

• Itching or swelling around the anus

• A mass or lump that comes out during stooling (prolapse)

When is Surgery Needed?

Not every patient with piles needs surgery. Surgery is recommended when:

• Symptoms persist despite medicines, fibre, and lifestyle changes

• Repeated bleeding leads to anaemia

• Piles frequently prolapse and require manual pushing

• Severe pain due to thrombosis

• Large grade III or grade IV piles

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A consultation with a general surgeon helps determine the best approach.

What to Expect Before Surgery

Your surgeon may advise:

• A brief fasting period

• Routine blood tests

• Stopping certain medications (like blood thinners)

• A bowel preparation depending on the procedure

All modern procedures are done under anaesthesia—so you do not feel pain during the surgery.

Recovery After Piles Surgery

Recovery depends on the procedure chosen. In general:

• Pain: Laser and stapler surgeries cause much less pain; conventional surgery may cause discomfort for a few days.

• Bleeding: Minimal spotting is common for a few days.

• Diet: High fibre, plenty of water, and stool softeners.

• Activity: Most patients resume normal routine within 2–5 days (laser/stapler) and 7–14 days for conventional surgery.

• Follow-up: Essential to monitor healing and prevent recurrence.

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How to Prevent Piles From Coming Back

Surgery solves the existing problem, but lifestyle plays a huge role in preventing recurrence:

• Eat a fibre-rich diet (fruits, vegetables, salads, whole grains)

• Drink 2–3 litres of water daily

• Avoid constipation—don’t strain

• Exercise or at least walk daily

• Avoid sitting for long hours without breaks

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When to Consult a Surgeon

Seek help immediately if you have:

• Recurrent rectal bleeding

• Severe pain or swelling

• A lump that doesn’t go back inside

• Bleeding with dizziness or fatigue

Early consultation can help avoid complications and allow simpler treatment options.

Final Thoughts

Piles surgery today is far safer, quicker, and more comfortable than ever before. With the right procedure and proper post-op care, patients get long-term relief and a significantly better quality of life.

Image Credits: Freepik.com