Roshan Ariyaratnam General Surgeon
Haemorrhoid Surgery (Haemorrhoidectomy) Melbourne ＆ Regional Victoria
Haemorrhoid surgery with advanced, patient-focused care.
Understanding Haemorrhoids
If you’ve been dealing with the pain and discomfort that haemorrhoids often bring, you’re not alone. These are one of the most common conditions that general surgeons such as Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam address.
Haemorrhoids are a normal part of the anal canal, but when the haemorrhoidal tissue becomes enlarged, irritated, or prolapsed, they may cause bleeding, itching, or pain. No matter your symptoms, it’s important to seek care if you notice any changes that may indicate external or internal haemorrhoids.
Symptoms of Haemorrhoids
While symptoms may differ from person to person, the most common symptoms include:
- Bright red blood on the toilet paper after you wipe (typically painless bleeding)
- Itching around the anus (perianal itch)
- Lumps or skin tags around the anus
- Discomfort during bowel action
In some cases, external haemorrhoids may develop blood clotting (thrombosis), which often causes sudden and painful swelling until the clot dissolves.
Causes of Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids are often triggered by:
- Ageing
- Chronic constipation
- Pregnancy
- Straining during bowel movements
- Spending too much time on the toilet
- Overusing laxatives or enemas
While haemorrhoids themselves are not usually dangerous, they share symptoms with other conditions, such as bowel cancer. This is why if you suspect you have haemorrhoids, it’s important to seek professional care for assessment.
Treatment Options for Haemorrhoids
At first, many patients may benefit from conservative treatment options like increasing dietary fibre and hydration, using stool softeners, and avoiding sitting on the toilet for too long. These lifestyle changes may reduce pressure on the blood vessels of the rectum and potentially relieve mild symptoms.
For persistent cases, minimally invasive surgical procedures are available. Thankfully, advancements that may treat haemorrhoids have come a long way in recent years. Surgical procedure options include:
- Rubber band ligation, which aims to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoidal tissue
- Haemorrhoid artery ligation, which aims to reduce blood flow to the affected veins
- Formal Haemorrhoidectomy (complete removal) for both internal and external haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoid Surgery With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is an experienced consultant general surgeon who combines diagnostic and surgical procedures with compassionate care. With over 15 years of surgical experience in both the UK and Australia, he has worked with countless patients experiencing complex haemorrhoids and related conditions.
Following your referral and initial consultation, his approach follows a clear process:
- Diagnosis, including examination and (when necessary) colonoscopy to rule out other causes such as bowel cancer.
- Treatment planning, beginning with conservative methods where possible.
- Surgical intervention, with advanced procedures aimed towards reducing blood flow or restricting blood supply to the haemorrhoids.
Following your surgery, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will follow up with you until you are discharged and will see you at your post-operative appointments. He will continue working with you through your recovery and will remain available for any questions you have or support you may need as you recover.
Ready to address your haemorrhoids with a caring, experienced surgeon close to home?
Your Haemorrhoid Surgery Melbourne Questions Answered
Can haemorrhoids heal without surgery?
In some cases, mild haemorrhoids may improve with conservative treatment. However, persistent or severe haemorrhoids may need surgical procedures like rubber band ligation or haemorrhoid artery ligation in an effort to reduce pain and discomfort.
What is the difference between internal haemorrhoids and external haemorrhoids?
Internal haemorrhoids occur inside the rectum and often cause painless bleeding, mucous, or prolapse during bowel movements. External haemorrhoids form under the skin near the anus and are more likely to be painful, swollen, itchy, or create a lump, especially if a blood clot develops. Both types result from increased pressure on the rectal and anal veins.
Are haemorrhoids the same as varicose veins?
Haemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins in that they’re caused by blood vessels becoming swollen due to increased pressure. However, varicose veins typically occur in the legs, while haemorrhoids occur in the rectum and anus. Both conditions involve weakened vein walls and poor blood flow, but are addressed with different treatment options.
Where can I have haemorrhoid surgery in Melbourne or regional Victoria?
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam consults and operates across multiple locations in Melbourne and Shepparton, including Knox Private Hospital, Holmesglen Private Hospital, Williamstown Specialist Centre, John Fawkner Private Hospital, Forest Hill Medical and Dental Centre, Maude Street Specialist Centre, and Better Health Medical Centre.
Do haemorrhoids lead to bowel cancer?
Haemorrhoids do not cause bowel cancer or increase your risk of it. However, they do share similar symptoms, such as rectal bleeding and difficulty with bowel movements. If you notice symptoms such as these or any other changes, you should see a doctor for investigation.
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Specialist Knowledge
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam has advanced training in minimally invasive and open haemorrhoid procedures, including for complex cases.
Rapid Access
Most patients are seen within one week of referral, with urgent cases prioritised.
Compassionate Care
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers a patient-centred, empathetic approach backed by international training and membership in leading surgical societies.
Our Clinic Locations
Book Your Appointment Today
Haemorrhoids are known to cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort, but this doesn’t have to be your new normal. With the appropriate approach, many patients may experience lasting relief and be able to return to normal daily life. Book an appointment with Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam today and take the first steps towards a treatment plan tailored to your needs.