What is laser hemorrhoidoplasty?

Laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) is a minimally invasive treatment for internal hemorrhoids. Through a tiny opening, a thin laser fiber is placed directly inside the hemorrhoid. Controlled laser energy shrinks the swollen tissue from within, and over the following weeks it contracts and scars down into place.

Because the surface skin and lining are left intact, most patients experience far less pain than with traditional hemorrhoid surgery.

Who it’s for

LHP is usually a good fit for people with:

-Internal hemorrhoids that bleed, prolapse, or keep coming back
-Symptoms that haven’t improved with fiber, creams, or banding
-A strong preference to avoid the pain and downtime of traditional surgery

It is not the right choice for every hemorrhoid. Large combined internal and external hemorrhoids, a thrombosed (clotted) external hemorrhoid, or other conditions like fissures may need a different approach. Your consultation will tell you exactly which option fits your anatomy and goals.

Why patients choose LHP

Less pain: No incisions through the sensitive outer skin

Faster recovery: Most people return to desk work within a few days

Outpatient: Home the same day

Preserves normal anatomy: Tissue is shrunk, not cut away

What to expect

1. Consultation: Dr. Kratz examines you, confirms the diagnosis, and explains whether LHP is the best option or whether something else would serve you better.

   2. Procedure day: The procedure takes about 20 minutes under sedation and local. You go home the same day.

      3. Recovery: Expect mild soreness and some swelling for several days, managed with simple pain relief and sitz baths. Light bleeding or discharge can occur as the tissue heals.

     4. Follow-up: We check your healing at 3 weeks and stay reachable if questions come up in between.

 
 
Why Precision Proctology

Your procedure is performed personally by Dr. Kratz, a Colon and Rectal Surgeon who focuses on this area of the body every day. Care is private, judgment-free, and without unnecessary delay. You will feel understood, receive certainty, and know what to do next.

FAQ

Does laser hemorrhoidoplasty hurt?
Most patients report significantly less pain than with traditional hemorrhoid surgery, because the outer skin is not cut. Some soreness for several days is normal.

How soon can I go back to work?
Many people return to desk work within a few days. Heavier physical work may need more time, and we’ll give you a personal timeline.

Is it permanent?
LHP provides lasting relief for most patients. Hemorrhoids can return over time, especially with ongoing constipation or straining, so we’ll also help you with bowel habits that protect your result.

How does it compare to banding?
Banding is quick and done in the office, but often requires several sessions and works best for smaller hemorrhoids. LHP treats all involved hemorrhoids in a single session and suits cases where banding hasn’t worked.

How does it compare to traditional hemorrhoidectomy?
Traditional surgery removes the hemorrhoid tissue and has the lowest recurrence rate, but recovery is much more painful and longer. LHP trades a slightly higher chance of recurrence for a far easier recovery. For very large or external hemorrhoids, traditional surgery may still be the better choice.

Do you see patients from Canada?
Yes. We regularly care for patients from the Vancouver area and across Canada.

Stop planning your life around hemorrhoids.

Find out in one visit whether laser hemorrhoidoplasty is right for you.