Post-operative Care & Lifestyle After Piles / Fistula Surgery – Tips to Avoid Recurrence
Piles and fistula are common anorectal conditions seen in people of all age groups in India. Many patients feel embarrassed to talk about these problems. But early treatment and proper post-operative care can give excellent long-term results. Surgery is often the best option when medicines do not help. However, surgery alone is not enough. The recovery phase and lifestyle changes after piles or fistula surgery play a major role in preventing recurrence.
Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a leading Colorectal Surgeon in Chennai, strongly emphasises the importance of post-operative care for complete healing and long-term relief.
Understanding Recovery After Piles and Fistula Surgery:
Recovery after piles or fistula surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. Modern techniques like laparoscopic and robotic surgery allow faster healing with less pain.As an experienced Robotic Surgeon in Chennai and Laparoscopic Surgeon in Chennai, Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy uses advanced surgical methods that minimise tissue damage and promote quicker recovery.
Most patients can return to daily activities within a few days. But complete healing may take a few weeks. Following your surgeon’s advice during this period is very important.
Immediate Post-operative Care Tips:
The first few days after surgery are crucial. Proper care during this phase reduces pain, infection, and complications:
- Pain Management: Mild pain and discomfort are common after surgery. Take prescribed pain medications on time. Do not self-medicate.
- Sitz Baths: Warm water sitz baths help reduce pain and swelling. Sit in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times a day.
- Wound Care: Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Follow hygiene instructions carefully. Avoid using harsh soaps or powders.
- Avoid Straining: Do not strain during bowel movements. Straining can damage the healing area and increase the risk of recurrence.
Diet After Piles or Fistula Surgery:
Diet plays a major role in recovery. A poor diet can lead to constipation, which is the main cause of piles recurrence.
- Diet is crucial for recovery:- A poor diet can cause constipation, which increases strain during bowel movements and raises the risk of piles or fistula recurrence.
- Include high-fibre foods daily:- Fibre softens stools and improves bowel movement regularity. Include fruits like papaya, apple, and pear, vegetables such as spinach, carrot, and beans, along with whole grains, millets, oats, and brown rice.
- Drink enough water:- Drinking 2.5 to 3 litres of water every day helps keep stools soft and prevents constipation, especially during the healing phase.
- Avoid foods that cause irritation or constipation:- Spicy, fried, and processed foods should be avoided as they can irritate the digestive tract. Excess tea and coffee may worsen dehydration and constipation.
- Follow a fibre-rich diet long-term:- Consistency is important. Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a trusted Surgical Gastroenterologist in Chennai, advises maintaining a fibre-rich diet even after recovery to prevent future problems.
Bowel Habits to Prevent Recurrence:
Poor bowel habits are one of the main reasons why piles and fistula can come back, even after successful surgery. How you pass stools every day directly affects the healing of the anal area.
- Do Not Delay Bowel Movements:- Always respond to the natural urge to pass stools. Ignoring it makes the stool dry and hard. Hard stools increase pressure inside the rectum. This pressure can damage the healing tissues and cause pain, bleeding, or recurrence of piles or fistula.
- Avoid Sitting for a Long Time in the Toilet:- Do not sit in the toilet for more than 5 minutes. Sitting for a long time puts extra pressure on the anal muscles and veins. Avoid using mobile phones or reading while in the toilet, as this increases sitting time without you realising it.
- Maintain a Fixed Bowel Routine:- Try to go to the toilet at the same time every day. Morning hours are usually the best, as the bowel is naturally active at that time. A regular routine trains your body for smooth and easy bowel movements.
Following these simple bowel habits reduces strain on the anal region, supports proper healing after surgery, and helps prevent piles and fistula from coming back.
Physical Activity After Surgery:
Complete bed rest is not required after piles or fistula surgery. Light activity improves blood circulation and speeds up recovery.
Recommended Activities:
- Short walks
- Gentle stretching
- Light household work
Avoid These Initially:
- Heavy lifting
- Intense workouts
- Cycling for long hours
As a senior Laparoscopic Surgeon in Chennai, Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy customises recovery plans based on the patient’s age, health, and surgery type.
Importance of Follow-up Visits:
Many patients stop follow-ups once pain reduces. This is a common mistake.
Regular follow-up visits help:
- Monitor wound healing
- Detect early signs of infection
- Prevent fistula recurrence
- Adjust diet and medications
Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, an experienced Robotic GI Surgeon in Chennai, believes that proper follow-up is as important as the surgery itself.
Lifestyle Changes for Long-term Relief:
Lifestyle modification is key to preventing recurrence.
- Maintain Healthy Weight:- Obesity increases pressure in the pelvic area. Maintain a healthy BMI.
- Manage Stress:- Stress affects digestion and bowel habits. Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol:- These slow down healing and worsen digestive health.
- Treat Constipation Early:- Do not ignore constipation. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
When to Consult a Specialist Again?
Contact your surgeon if you experience:
- Severe pain
- Bleeding
- Fever
- Pus discharge
- Difficulty in bowel movements
Early intervention prevents serious complications.
Why Choose Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy for Piles and Fistula Surgery?
Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is a highly respected Colorectal Surgeon in Chennai with over 17 years of experience. He is trained in advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques, including the Da Vinci system. He practices at GEM Hospital and SS Surgical Clinic, offering personalised care and advanced surgical solutions. His expertise as a Robotic Surgeon in Chennai ensures minimal pain, faster recovery, and excellent long-term outcomes. With 34 published research papers and international surgical experience, Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is one of the most trusted names in colorectal and gastrointestinal surgery in Chennai.
Conclusion:
Piles and fistula surgery can provide lasting relief when combined with proper post-operative care and healthy lifestyle changes. Diet, bowel habits, physical activity, and regular follow-ups all play an important role.
If you are planning surgery or recovering from one, expert guidance makes a big difference. Consult Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a leading Surgical Gastroenterologist in Chennai, for safe treatment and long-term relief.