Haemorrhoid Surgery (Haemorrhoidectomy) Altona
Understanding Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids are a common source of pain and discomfort for many people, and one of the conditions most often treated by general surgeons like Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam.
Although haemorrhoids are a normal feature of the anal canal, they may cause discomfort, itching, or bleeding when enlarged or irritated. Any persistent or new symptoms should be checked by a qualified healthcare provider.
Symptoms of Haemorrhoids
Everyone’s experience is different, but the most common symptoms are:
- Bright red blood on the toilet paper after you wipe (typically painless bleeding)
- An itchy or irritated sensation around the anus, known as perianal itch.
- Lumps or skin tags around the anus
- Pain or pressure experienced during bowel movements.
Sometimes, a blood clot may form within an external haemorrhoid (known as thrombosis), causing a sudden, painful swelling that gradually settles as the clot dissolves.
orrhoids 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
- Persistent constipation
- Hormonal and physical changes during pregnancy
- Straining during bowel movements
- Lingering on the toilet for too long
- 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 people with ongoing symptoms, there are minimally invasive surgical procedures that can help. Over the years, medical advancements have greatly improved how haemorrhoids are treated. These procedures include:
- Rubber band ligation, a procedure designed to stop blood flow to the haemorrhoidal tissue.
- Haemorrhoid artery ligation, which aims to reduce blood flow to the affected veins
- Formal haemorrhoidectomy, which entails removing both internal and external haemorrhoidal tissue.
Haemorrhoid Surgery With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam, a consultant general surgeon with more than 15 years of experience in the UK and Australia, delivers both diagnostic and surgical care with compassion and precision. He has treated many patients with complex haemorrhoids and associated conditions.
Following your referral and initial consultation, his approach follows a clear process:
- Comprehensive diagnosis involving physical examination and, if required, colonoscopy to exclude other conditions like bowel cancer.
- Creating a tailored treatment plan, beginning with non-surgical or conservative measures where appropriate.
- Surgical management, with advanced methods focused on limiting or redirecting blood supply to the haemorrhoids.
Following surgery, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will oversee your care until discharge and meet with you for post-operative reviews. He’ll stay involved in your recovery and is always available to address any concerns or provide guidance.
Ready to take the next step towards relief with a trusted, approachable surgeon near you?
Your Haemorrhoid Surgery Altona 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?
Across Altona and around Victoria, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers consultations and performs procedures at several locations, 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?
While haemorrhoids don’t lead to bowel cancer or heighten your risk, they can produce similar symptoms such as bleeding or difficulty passing stool. If you notice these signs or any other changes, you should consult your doctor for further investigation.
What areas do you service?
Williamstown Specialist Centre is easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Specialist Knowledge
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is trained in advanced techniques for both minimally invasive and open haemorrhoid procedures, including complex presentations.
Rapid Access
Most patients are seen within one week of referral, with urgent cases prioritised.
Compassionate Care
Offering a compassionate, patient-focused approach, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam draws on his international training and active membership in leading surgical societies.
Our Location near Altona
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.