Laser vs Open Surgery for Piles — Which Is Right for You?

If you have been diagnosed with piles (haemorrhoids) that require surgical treatment, one of the first questions you will face is: laser or open surgery? Both approaches are effective, but they differ significantly in technique, pain levels, recovery time, and suitability for different grades of piles. Understanding these differences helps you make the right choice for your specific condition.

Laser Haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP)

Laser treatment for piles uses a focused beam of light energy delivered through a thin fibre inserted into the haemorrhoid. The laser energy causes the blood vessels feeding the pile to shrink and seal, reducing the haemorrhoid's size without cutting or removing tissue. There are no external wounds, no stitches, and the procedure is virtually bloodless. LHP is performed as a day-care procedure — patients walk in and walk out the same day. Post-operative pain is minimal, and most people return to work within 2-3 days.

Open Haemorrhoidectomy (Conventional Surgery)

Traditional open surgery involves surgically excising (cutting out) the haemorrhoidal tissue and closing the wound with absorbable sutures. It is a more extensive procedure with a longer and more painful recovery — typically 2-4 weeks before returning to normal activities. However, open surgery has the lowest long-term recurrence rate and remains the preferred option for large, prolapsed Grade 4 piles where laser alone may be insufficient.

Making the Right Choice

• Laser — ideal for Grade 2 and Grade 3 piles. Minimal pain, quick recovery, same-day discharge. Lower recurrence for internal piles
• Stapler Haemorrhoidopexy (MIPH) — for Grade 3-4 prolapsed piles. Lifts and fixes piles back into position while cutting off blood supply. Less pain than open surgery
• Open surgery — for Grade 4 and complex cases. Highest success rate long-term but longer, more painful recovery

At SurgeonForU, our proctology team evaluates each patient individually — the grade, number, and type of piles, your age, general health, and recovery expectations — before recommending the most appropriate approach. Our goal is always the least invasive treatment that will give you a permanent cure.