Post-Surgery Concerns: Managing Swelling and Pain After Hemorrhoid Surgery

More than a month after hemorrhoid surgery, there is slight swelling at the anal wound?

Hello, Doctor.
In mid-November last year, I underwent laser hemorrhoid surgery at Kaohsiung Hemorrhoid Clinic, where five internal and external hemorrhoids were removed.
Currently, the wound is mostly painless, but I notice a slight amount of blood during bowel movements, and there is some mild pain at the site.
I visit the clinic daily for medication application, and the doctor mentioned that the membrane hasn't fully healed yet, so it's normal to see a little blood when it rubs against the stool.
I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
Is such a long recovery period typical?
2.
Am I at risk of developing an anal fistula or anal abscess in my situation?
3.
I tend to apply a thick layer of white ointment; is that acceptable?
4.
What conditions could lead to the development of a fistula or abscess post-surgery?

Xiao Wen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/02

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

1.
There are various types of laser surgery instruments and power settings, and the recovery period can vary significantly.
However, it generally should not last this long.
To determine if your symptoms are normal, it is best to consult your surgeon.

2.
It is not necessary to examine the wound to make a judgment; a diagnosis cannot be made solely based on a written description.

3.
There is no need to apply a thick layer of medication; agents that do not come into contact with the skin are ineffective and can actually impede skin respiration.

4.
If the wound does not heal over time or if you experience redness, swelling, heat, pain, or purulent discharge, you should seek medical attention promptly to assess for potential complications.

Reply Date: 2023/01/02

More Info

After undergoing hemorrhoid surgery, it is common for patients to experience a range of symptoms during the recovery period. Your concerns regarding swelling, pain, and the potential for complications such as anal fistulas or abscesses are valid and deserve careful consideration.

Recovery Timeline
1. Duration of Recovery: Recovery from hemorrhoid surgery can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, the initial healing phase can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the extent of the surgery and individual healing rates. Since you mentioned that you had both internal and external hemorrhoids removed, it is not unusual for the recovery period to be longer. The fact that you are still experiencing slight pain and minor bleeding after bowel movements indicates that your surgical site is still healing. It is essential to follow your doctor's advice and continue attending follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Risk of Infection
2. Concerns About Infection: The fear of developing complications such as anal fistulas or abscesses is understandable. These conditions can occur if there is an infection or if the surgical site does not heal properly. Signs of infection may include increased pain, swelling, redness, or discharge from the surgical site. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. However, if your doctor has assessed your healing process and indicated that it is normal, you may be reassured that your risk is low, provided you maintain good hygiene and follow post-operative care instructions.

Application of Medication
3. Use of Ointments: Applying a thick layer of ointment as prescribed by your doctor is generally acceptable, as long as it does not cause excessive irritation or discomfort. The purpose of the ointment is to keep the area moist and promote healing while preventing the formation of scabs that could lead to pain during bowel movements. However, it is essential to ensure that the ointment is applied gently and that you are not using it in a way that could introduce bacteria into the area.

Potential Complications
4. Understanding Fistulas and Abscesses: Anal fistulas and abscesses can develop due to various factors, including infection, inflammation, or improper healing of the surgical site. A fistula is an abnormal connection between the anal canal and the skin, while an abscess is a collection of pus that can form in the anal area. These complications are more likely to occur if there is significant trauma to the area, poor hygiene, or if the surgical site becomes infected. To minimize the risk, it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene, follow your doctor's post-operative care instructions, and monitor for any unusual symptoms.

Conclusion
In summary, while your recovery may feel prolonged, it is essential to give your body the time it needs to heal properly. Continue to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns. If you experience any signs of infection or complications, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Your proactive approach to your recovery, including regular follow-ups and adherence to prescribed treatments, will significantly contribute to a successful healing process.

Similar Q&A

Post-Hemorrhoid Surgery: Common Concerns and Pain Management

Hello, doctor. It has been four days since my external hemorrhoidectomy, and I am still experiencing unbearable pain. The area around the wound is swollen around half of the anus. I have been lying in bed and relying on painkillers to manage my daily activities. However, I read t...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Personally, I have not undergone outpatient hemorrhoidectomy because postoperative swelling and pain are inevitable. Mild bleeding and discharge are also considered normal. During this time, it is not recommended to apply ointments to avoid compromising wound cleanliness. Frequen...

Post-Surgery Anal Itching: Managing Discomfort After Hemorrhoid Surgery

After hemorrhoid surgery, there may be itching, swelling, and pain during bowel movements, and passing gas can also cause discomfort.

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
It is normal to experience discomfort during the healing process after hemorrhoid surgery. It is recommended to use pain relief medications and to take warm sitz baths. If symptoms persist without improvement or if there is redness, swelling, heat, or pain, you should consult you...

Post-Surgery Concerns: Managing Pain and Recovery After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Hello, Doctor: I recently inquired about issues related to hemorrhoid surgery, and I appreciate your response. I have followed up with my original surgeon regarding the persistent swelling and pain after the surgery, and I have undergone some treatments. Initially, the doctor did...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. Some individuals may experience a rejection reaction to absorbable sutures due to their body constitution, which can lead to purulent infections; this is a possibility. 2. Generally, wounds near the anus take about a week to heal. As long ...

Post-Surgery Swelling Concerns After Minimally Invasive Hemorrhoid Surgery

Dear Dr. Chang, I underwent a Legasure procedure 18 days ago to excise two external hemorrhoids and one mixed hemorrhoid (and possibly one or two internal hemorrhoids). Post-surgery, I have been taking sitz baths twice daily and rinsing with warm water or using wet wipes after e...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
In general, after a complete excision of internal and external hemorrhoids, there will be significant swelling at the surgical site. The degree and duration of the swelling are related to the severity of the original hemorrhoids, and it is common for patients to experience swelli...