How long after hemorrhoid surgery will bowel movements be painless?

Jul 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Jingxiang

Introduction

In general, the recovery time after hemorrhoid surgery varies from person to person. Typically, bowel movements may become painless within 1 to 8 weeks, depending mainly on the surgical method used, individual physical condition, postoperative care, and wound healing. If the patient strictly follows medical advice, maintains proper anal hygiene, and promptly performs warm water sitz baths after each bowel movement to keep the wound clean and promote local blood circulation, the healing process can be accelerated.

Generally, the recovery time after hemorrhoid surgery varies from person to person. Typically, bowel movements may be pain-free within 1 to 8 weeks, mainly depending on the surgical method, individual physical condition, postoperative care, and wound healing. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If the traditional external剥离 internal ligation procedure is performed, due to relatively greater damage to the perianal tissues, postoperative exposed wounds, and significant stimulation of nerve endings, the pain tends to be severe. During the first week after surgery, each bowel movement may cause considerable pain. The pain usually lessens after one week, but it may take 2–3 weeks for the pain to completely subside.

If the hemorrhoid surgery is a traditional open procedure, or if complications occur after surgery, painful bowel movements may last longer or even worsen. In such cases, the time to pain-free defecation may extend to 6–8 weeks, during which appropriate postoperative care is necessary.

If the patient strictly follows medical advice, maintains proper anal hygiene, performs warm water sitz baths promptly after each bowel movement, keeps the wound clean, and promotes local blood circulation, wound healing can be accelerated, thus shortening the duration of painful defecation. If there is no improvement, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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How many days are required for recovery after hemorrhoid surgery, and when can one return to work?

Minimally invasive procedures, such as stapled hemorrhoidopexy, are associated with small trauma, minimal bleeding, and relatively mild postoperative pain. Most patients can largely take care of themselves 3–5 days after surgery. If there is no significant pain or bleeding, individuals may return to work with light duties within about one week. However, prolonged sitting or standing should be avoided; appropriate rest during work intervals is recommended to prevent pressure on the wound and interference with recovery. Complete recovery usually takes approximately 1–2 weeks.

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What to eat after hemorrhoid surgery

In general, patients are advised to consume foods such as bananas, spinach, lean meat, millet, and yogurt after hemorrhoid surgery. Additionally, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, diosmin tablets, lactulose oral solution, cefixime dispersible tablets, and Venoruton tablets may be taken as directed by a physician. After hemorrhoid surgery, the diet should be light, easily digestible, and nutritionally balanced. Spicy, greasy, and hard foods should be avoided.

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How to arrange your diet after hemorrhoid surgery

Dietary arrangements after hemorrhoid surgery should focus on mild, easily digestible foods that promote recovery. Generally, patients should start with a liquid diet in the early postoperative period, gradually transitioning to semi-liquid foods. During the first 1-2 days after surgery, when gastrointestinal function has not fully recovered, it is advisable to choose liquid foods such as rice broth, lotus root starch, and vegetable or fruit juices. These foods are thin in texture, easy to digest and absorb, and can reduce irritation to the intestines and surgical wound.

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Can I eat eggs after hemorrhoid surgery?

Eggs are rich in high-quality protein and various nutrients, which can aid in postoperative tissue repair and enhance the body's recovery capacity. After the gastrointestinal function gradually recovers following surgery, consuming 1-2 eggs daily can promote wound healing. However, during the early postoperative period, gastrointestinal function is relatively weak; excessive egg consumption may cause bloating, constipation, and excessive straining during bowel movements, which can irritate the wound and impair recovery.