Sometimes. Laser hemorrhoidoplasty is one option for selected patients with internal hemorrhoids (piles). It uses a thin laser fibre to shrink hemorrhoidal tissue rather than cut it away, as a conventional hemorrhoidectomy does.

But not every lump, painful bowel movement or episode of bleeding is caused by piles. Before discussing a laser procedure, the surgeon needs to establish what is causing your symptoms.

Internal hemorrhoids may bleed or protrude during a bowel movement. External hemorrhoids and skin tags are different, and a laser procedure for internal hemorrhoids will not necessarily address them.

At the consultation, explain whether tissue goes back on its own, needs to be pushed back or stays outside. Tell the doctor about constipation, blood thinners and previous treatment. An examination, and often an anoscopy (a short look inside the anal canal with a small instrument), establishes the diagnosis and the extent of the problem.

Rectal bleeding should not automatically be attributed to piles. Further investigation may be needed, particularly with a change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, anaemia or a relevant family history. Heavy bleeding, faintness, fever or severe worsening pain need urgent medical assessment.

A surgeon who treats anorectal conditions, often called a proctologist or colorectal surgeon. They can examine you, perform an anoscopy and offer the full range of treatments, from banding to surgery, rather than a single method.

Laser hemorrhoidoplasty is most often studied in patients with grade II or III internal hemorrhoids: tissue protrudes but goes back by itself or can be pushed back. The grade alone does not decide treatment; the external component, the degree of prolapse and your response to previous treatment matter as well.

Laser energy is delivered through a fibre placed into the hemorrhoidal tissue. Anaesthesia and any additional steps are agreed with the surgical team. It is still a procedure to recover from, so calling it "non-surgical" can give the wrong impression.

A 2023 systematic review of nine studies (661 patients) comparing laser hemorrhoidoplasty with conventional hemorrhoidectomy for grade II–III piles found less pain in the first week, less early bleeding and an earlier return to work or daily activities after laser. At 12 months, bleeding, prolapse and complete resolution were similar between the two approaches. That is a reason to discuss laser if recovery time matters to you.

It does not mean that treatment is painless, that bleeding cannot occur or that piles cannot return. Symptoms may persist or recur, and further treatment may be necessary. The evidence on long-term results is less settled than the evidence on early recovery.

Possible complications include bleeding, pain, swelling, infection and difficulty passing urine. Ask the surgeon which risks apply to your proposed procedure and how they would be managed.

Many patients start with more fibre, enough fluids and changes to bowel habits. If symptoms continue, rubber band ligation may be appropriate for internal hemorrhoids. It is an established outpatient option and does not require a laser.

For a substantial external component, advanced prolapse or symptoms that have not responded to other treatment, a hemorrhoidectomy may be recommended. It generally involves a more demanding recovery, but removing the troublesome tissue may suit that situation better.

Before deciding, ask: "What would you recommend if I had not asked for laser treatment?" The answer should explain the diagnosis and the alternatives.

Day surgery means discharge is planned for the same day once the team considers it safe. It is not a promise that every patient will be ready to leave at a particular time.

You will need a plan for pain relief, bowel movements and follow-up. Ask when you can drive, sit comfortably at work and exercise; your job, the procedure and your recovery determine the timing. Contact the surgical team about heavy bleeding, fever, increasing pain or difficulty passing urine.

At ELEMENTAL the published prices are: proctology consultation with Dr Peter Lassu, Consultant General Surgeon, AED 750; anoscopy AED 200 (charged separately); laser hemorrhoidopexy from AED 19,000; surgical hemorrhoidectomy from AED 18,000. The final price depends on the findings and the type of anaesthesia, and it is confirmed in writing after the consultation, before anything is booked.

ELEMENTAL's proctology service offers laser treatment, band ligation and surgical treatment of hemorrhoids with Dr Peter Lassu. The consultation is the place to decide which of these, if any, suits your symptoms. Ask about anaesthesia, follow-up and the arrangements if additional care is needed.

If you have been postponing an examination because you are worried about surgery, you can book a consultation simply to discuss the options. Booking an assessment does not commit you to a procedure.

Book a proctology consultation · Read about laser hemorrhoidopexy · Read about hemorrhoidectomy · Read about band ligation · WhatsApp +971 4 383 0500

This information does not replace an examination. The choice of treatment is made with your surgeon.

Medically reviewed by Dr Peter Lassu, Consultant General Surgeon, DHA licence 64033332-005, ELEMENTAL Day Surgical Center. Reviewed 8 October 2026.

1. Hawkins AT, Davis BR, et al. The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hemorrhoids. Dis Colon Rectum 2024;67(5):614–623. https://doi.org/10.1097/DCR.0000000000003276
2. Wee IJY, et al. Laser hemorrhoidoplasty versus conventional hemorrhoidectomy for grade II/III hemorrhoids: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Coloproctol 2023;39(1):3–10. https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2022.00598.0085