The Do’s and Don’ts After Laser Surgery for Hemorrhoids, Fissure, and Fistula

Undergoing laser surgery for hemorrhoids, fissure, or fistula is a big step towards healing and a more comfortable life. However, the real success of your treatment depends heavily on the care you give yourself afterward. Recovery after laser procedures can be smooth and easy if you follow important care instructions. In this blog, we will guide you on how to take care of yourself, what changes you may notice, and when to seek medical advice.

Why Aftercare Matters

While laser surgery is less invasive compared to traditional methods, it still requires careful post-operative care. Proper healing not only ensures better results but also prevents complications such as infections, delayed recovery, or recurrence of the problem. Whether you have undergone surgery for hemorrhoids, a fissure, or a fistula, following a structured aftercare plan is crucial for the best outcome.

Care after Laser Surgery for Hemorrhoids

After laser hemorrhoid surgery, patients often feel a significant relief from pain and swelling. However, complete healing takes several weeks. During this period, it is important to stay mindful of your daily activities, diet, and hygiene practices.

Here are essential tips you should follow:

1. Sitz Bath Routine

Start doing sitz baths 3–4 times a day during the first week. Use slightly warm tap water and consider adding a few drops of povidone-iodine to prevent infection. Each session should last 10–15 minutes. From the third week, you can reduce it to twice daily, and after five weeks, only once after bowel movements. Consistent sitz baths help reduce swelling, promote healing, and keep the area clean.

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated is critical. Drink at least 12 glasses of water every day. Proper hydration keeps your stools soft, prevents constipation, and supports wound healing. Dehydration can cause hard stools, which strain the surgical site and slow down recovery.

3. Maintain Healthy Toilet Habits

For the first few weeks, use an English commode instead of a squat-style toilet to minimize pressure on the healing area. Always clean gently with a Muslim shower after passing stools, but ensure the water pressure is neither too strong nor too weak.

4. Eat a Fiber-Rich Diet

Focus on eating light, high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, lentils, porridge, and whole grains. A fiber-rich diet softens stools, making bowel movements easier and less painful. Avoid spicy, oily, or junk food, especially during the first six weeks. After complete healing, you can gradually return to a normal diet with occasional treats.

5. Use Stool Softeners Initially

In the first week, your doctor may prescribe stool softeners to avoid straining during bowel movements. After one week, you can discontinue them but continue using ispaghol (psyllium husk) if recommended.

6. Avoid Long Sitting or Standing

Prolonged sitting or standing increases pressure around the rectal area. Whenever you need to sit, use a soft cushion or donut pillow to minimize strain.

7. Cleanliness is Key

After each bowel movement, clean the area with povidone-iodine and sterile gauze. This helps avoid infections, especially in the sensitive postoperative period.

8. Use Numbing Gel Before Passing Stool

In the first week, applying a prescribed numbing gel before using the toilet can greatly reduce discomfort and encourage easier bowel movements.

9. Manage Pain Wisely

Most patients experience mild pain that reduces within 3–5 days. Use painkillers as prescribed during the first week. Gradually decrease them based on your comfort.

What to Expect During Recovery

Healing after laser surgery is generally faster, but you might experience some normal symptoms:

• After Hemorrhoid Surgery: Around 50–60% relief is immediate, but full recovery can take up to 12 weeks.

• After Fissure Surgery: Most patients feel instant pain relief, though slight irritation may persist for a couple of weeks.

• After Fistula Surgery: Mild watery discharge is common during the first week and usually subsides on its own.

• Mild Bleeding or Irritation: Small amounts of bleeding or slight discomfort during bowel movements are common for the first few days.

If you have undergone the removal of extra skin during surgery, you may notice a pus-like discharge. Proper cleaning and regular sitz baths help manage this and speed up recovery.

Additional Tips for a Smoother Recovery

• Resume light activities slowly and avoid heavy lifting.

• Stay active with gentle walks to improve blood circulation.

• Wear loose clothing to prevent friction around the surgical area.

By following these important tips, your healing journey care after laser treatment for hemorrhoids, fissures, or fistulas will be much smoother and more comfortable. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks. However, if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fever, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.

Final Words

Taking care of yourself after laser surgery is not difficult if you stay disciplined with your routine. Remember, small efforts every day make a big difference in your healing process. If you follow the instructions properly, you will heal faster and lower the chances of any complications.

For expert consultation with Dr. Abdullah Iqbal or to schedule an appointment, contact ???? 0333-2877351 or 0321-2363611.