Anal fissure is one of the most painful anorectal conditions, and when medicines fail to deliver relief, a fissure operation becomes a reliable and permanent treatment option. Whether you are undergoing a traditional procedure or a laser operation for a fissure, proper preparation is the key to ensuring a smooth surgery and faster recovery.
This guide helps you understand fissure operation preparation, the right pre-surgery diet, important questions to ask your doctor, and precautions after the fissure operation.
When is Fissure Operation Recommended?
Doctors generally suggest surgery if:
- Pain, bleeding, or burning persists for more than 6–8 weeks
- Anal fissure keeps recurring
- There is a sentinel pile, skin tag, or infection
- Bowel motion becomes extremely painful every day
- Medicines, sitz bath, and creams fail to work
Surgery not only reduces pain but also prevents long-term complications.
Types of Fissure Operation
1️⃣ Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS)
The most common surgical method. A small cut is made to relax the anal muscles and improve blood flow.
2️⃣ Laser Operation of Fissure
Modern, minimally invasive approach with quicker healing and less discomfort.
3️⃣ Fissurectomy
The fissured area is removed to allow proper healing.
Your doctor will guide the best surgical approach based on symptoms, age, and medical conditions.
Pre-Surgery Diet: What to Eat Before a Fissure Operation?
Your diet plays a major role in reducing bowel strain and improving healing.
Include High-Fiber Foods
- Leafy vegetables (spinach, methi, broccoli)
- Fruits (banana, apple, papaya)
- Whole grains (brown rice, oats)
- Pulses and legumes
Stay Hydrated
Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily.
Warm water is especially helpful in maintaining soft stools.
Add Natural Stool Softeners
- Isabgol husk (at bedtime with warm water)
- Prunes
- Chia or flax seeds
Healthy Fats
- Ghee in small amounts with food
- Olive oil for cooking
Avoid Before Surgery
- Fast food, fried items
- Spicy and junk food
- Red meat
- Constipating foods (too much dairy, potatoes)
- Caffeine and alcohol
A clean and soft bowel movement before the operation helps reduce pain and complications.
Anal Fissure Surgery Preparation Checklist
Here’s how you can get ready step-by-step:
1️⃣ Medical Preparation
- Share your complete medical history with the doctor
- Inform about diabetes, thyroid, heart problems, pregnancy or blood thinners
- Bring previous test reports, MRI or anoscopy reports (if any)
2️⃣ Hygiene & Bowel Preparation
- Take a warm water bath a day before surgery
- The doctor may prescribe laxatives the night before the operation
3️⃣ Lifestyle Preparation
- Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery
- Sleep well the previous night
- Wear loose cotton clothes on surgery day
4️⃣ Arrange Post-Surgery Care
- Keep a family member with you
- Keep stool softeners, wet wipes, sitz bath tub, and healthy meals ready at home
Laser Operation of Fissure: Why It’s Preferred Today?
Many specialists recommend laser surgery because:
✔ Minimal or no bleeding
✔ Very low pain
✔ Same-day discharge
✔ Very quick recovery
✔ Reduced infection risk
✔ High success rate
✔ Patient can resume normal activities early
Laser surgery is a highly advanced method and suitable for most chronic fissure patients.
What to Discuss With Your Doctor Before Fissure Operation?
A confident and well-informed patient heals faster. Make sure you ask:
- Which technique will be used — LIS or laser operation of the fissure?
- Expected recovery time?
- What are the side effects or risks?
-Diet instructions before and after surgery? - When can I start going to work?
- How long to continue stool softeners?
- Can I use an Indian toilet, or should I switch to Western?
Clear communication helps reduce anxiety and prepares you better.
What Happens on the Day of Fissure Surgery?
- You will need to arrive on an empty stomach (as instructed)
- Basic vitals check and anesthesia setup
- Surgery usually takes 20–30 minutes
- You may be discharged the same day, depending on the procedure
Doctors will give immediate pain relief medicines after surgery.
Precautions After Fissure Operation
Healing after fissure surgery is faster when you follow these precautions carefully:
✔ Continue High-Fiber Diet
- Avoid constipation at all costs
✔ Sitz Bath Twice a Day
- Warm water enhances blood flow and reduces discomfort
✔ Drink Plenty of Fluids
- Avoid dehydration — key to soft stools
✔ Medications on Time
- Painkillers, antibiotics, and stool softeners must be taken regularly
✔ Maintain Hygiene
- Clean the anal area gently — avoid harsh soap or rubbing
✔ Avoid Straining
- No heavy weight lifting or pressure during bowel movement
✔ Use Western Toilet
- Reduces strain and improves comfort
If you observe fever, pus, severe bleeding or unbearable pain — contact your doctor immediately.
Recovery Timeline After Fissure Operation
- 2–3 days: Pain starts decreasing
- 1–2 weeks: Return to normal routine (if laser surgery)
- 3–4 weeks: Complete healing in most cases
Your recovery may vary depending on the type of surgery and personal health conditions.
Key Takeaways
| Stage | Goal |
|---|---|
|
Before Surgery |
Reduce constipation, improve hygiene & prepare body |
|
Day of Surgery |
Stay relaxed, follow medical directions
|
|
After Surgery |
Follow all precautions after the fissure operation for faster recovery |
Final Thoughts
A fissure operation is a safe and effective solution to end chronic pain and bleeding. Whether you choose a traditional procedure or the modern laser operation of fissure, proper anal fissure surgery preparation and disciplined post-care can lead to a smooth and quicker recovery.
If symptoms continue for weeks, do not delay treatment. Seek expert consultation at Sushrut Piles Hospital, where experienced specialists provide advanced and painless solutions for fissure, fistula, piles, and other anorectal conditions. Early medical care helps prevent complications and improves your quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients experience very little pain during a fissure operation because it is done under anesthesia. After surgery, medicines, warm sitz baths, and proper care help control discomfort effectively.
Recovery depends on the treatment type. After laser operation of the fissure, most patients return to routine work within 3–7 days. Complete healing usually takes 2–4 weeks.
- Eating a high-fiber diet
- Drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding straining during bowel movements
- Maintaining hygiene and taking sitz baths
- Using a Western toilet and avoiding heavy lifting
The success rate of fissure surgery — especially laser operation of fissure — is very high. Recurrence may happen if constipation returns or precautions are ignored. A healthy lifestyle prevents future fissures.
A soft and fiber-rich diet should be continued for at least 2–3 weeks. Avoid spicy and fried foods until recovery is complete. Your doctor will guide you based on your healing progress.