How long does hemorrhoid surgery take?

The duration of hemorrhoid surgery is not fixed and typically ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours, primarily depending on the type of hemorrhoids, severity, and surgical method. Simple hemorrhoid procedures take less time, while complex cases involving multiple lesions and more difficult operations require longer durations. A detailed analysis is as follows:

For mild external hemorrhoids or isolated internal hemorrhoids—classified as simple cases—minimally invasive techniques are commonly used, such as stapled hemorrhoidopexy or rubber band ligation. These procedures are straightforward, involve minimal trauma, and when performed with good cooperation between doctor and patient, generally take 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete, allowing for relatively quick postoperative recovery. In contrast, complex conditions such as mixed hemorrhoids or circumferential hemorrhoids often require traditional excision of external components combined with internal ligation. This involves treating each lesion individually and ensuring thorough hemostasis, resulting in a procedure time of 1 to 2 hours.

Surgical duration is also influenced by preoperative preparation and the surgeon’s experience. Thorough bowel cleansing before surgery and stable patient condition help save time during the operation. Surgeons with extensive experience perform more skillfully, effectively shortening the procedure time.

Prior to surgery, patients should follow medical instructions to complete all required examinations, adjust their diet to maintain bowel regularity, and stay relaxed and cooperative—factors that all contribute to a smoother operation and reduce unnecessary delays.