Surgery·Surgery
Haemorrhoidectomy
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A haemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove haemorrhoids (swollen veins in the back passage, also called piles). It is usually done when other treatments have not helped and symptoms are severe, such as persistent bleeding, pain, or a lump that sticks out.
Key facts
- It is a common and generally safe operation, often done as a day case or with a short hospital stay.
- Recovery usually takes 2–4 weeks, with some discomfort in the first few days.
- The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic (you are asleep) or sometimes a spinal block.
Yes, haemorrhoidectomy is one of the most common surgeries for severe haemorrhoids, but many people with haemorrhoids never need surgery.
Anyone can have haemorrhoids that require surgery, but it is more likely in people whose haemorrhoids do not improve with lifestyle changes, creams, or other procedures like banding.