Laser Proctology
Laser proctology is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat common anorectal conditions such as haemorrhoids and fistulas. Using precise laser energy, this advanced treatment allows your consultant to remove or seal tissue with minimal pain, bleeding, and downtime compared to traditional surgery.
What is laser proctology?
Laser proctology is a minimally invasive technique that uses laser energy to treat conditions affecting the anus and rectum. The precision of the laser technology allows your surgeon to target only the affected tissue, reducing trauma to surrounding healthy areas. As a result of its accuracy, most patients experience less pain, bleeding, and swelling, leading to faster healing and a quicker return to normal activities.
Laser proctology is commonly used to treat:
internal and external haemorrhoids (swollen veins in or around the rectum)
anal fissures (small tears in the lining of the anus)
anal fistulas (abnormal tracts between the anal canal and the skin)
pilonidal sinus (small cysts near the tailbone)
intraepithelial neoplasia (a pre-cancerous change in the skin in the perianal area)
At Welbeck, our colorectal surgeons are leaders in minimally invasive treatments for anal and rectal conditions, including laser proctology, the Rafaelo procedure, and haemorrhoid banding. You’ll receive your care in our dedicated Surgery Centre, which offers the latest laser technology and advanced surgical facilities. Our team focuses on delivering comfortable, effective treatments with minimal disruption to your daily life. You’ll also be provided with clear aftercare advice to support long-term bowel health and symptom prevention.
More information
Laser proctology is performed as a day-case procedure in our state-of-the-art Surgery Centre. Your exact procedure will depend on the condition that’s being treated, and your consultant will fully explain what will be involved.
Typically, on the day of your procedure:
You’ll have a short pre-procedure consultation where your colorectal surgeon explains the process, and answers any last questions.
You’ll be given either a local or general anaesthetic, depending on the type and extent of your treatment.
You’ll lie on your front or back with your legs raised
Your surgeon will insert a proctoscope into your rectum to locate the area of concern and guide the laser device.
A fine laser probe will then be guided to the affected area.
Your surgeon will use laser energy to seal, shrink or remove the diseased tissue, while preserving surrounding structures.
The procedure generally takes around 30 minutes, and once it’s complete, you’ll be able to relax in private, comfortable surroundings. After a short recovery period, you’ll be given aftercare instructions and be able to go home the same day.
Laser proctology is considered very safe, with fewer complications than traditional open surgery. However, as with any medical procedure, some risks exist.
Risks include:
mild pain or discomfort for a few days
minor bleeding or oozing
temporary swelling or burning sensation
In rare cases, risks include:
infection
recurrence of the condition
Before your treatment, your consultant will review your medical history and perform a detailed examination, which may include a proctoscopy or anoscopy to make sure the treatment is right for you.
You may be advised to:
avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure if you’re having general anaesthesia
stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before surgery
arrange for someone to drive you home, especially if you're having a general anaesthetic.
Most patients go home within a few hours of their procedure and can return to light activities within 24 to 48 hours.
You may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or a feeling of fullness for a few days — this is normal.
To support recovery and prevent recurrence, your consultant may advise:
taking paracetamol or other prescribed pain relief, if needed
avoiding constipation by eating a high-fibre diet and drinking plenty of fluids
avoiding straining or sitting on the toilet for long periods
gently cleaning the area with warm water, or wet wipes, after bowel movements
continuing any prescribed stool softeners to avoid straining
avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least 1 week
Most people return to full activity within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the condition treated.
A small amount of bleeding after the procedure is normal, but if you experience heavy bleeding (more than 200ml in 24 hours), persistent pain, fever, or difficulty passing urine or stool, contact us immediately, or go to your nearest A&E department.
Please contact the Digestive Health centre for pricing information.
At Welbeck, our colorectal surgeons are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.
With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
To book laser proctology, you must be referred by either your GP or a gastroenterologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with a gastroenterologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.
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Frequently asked questions
In most cases, no stitches are needed. The laser seals blood vessels and tissues as it works, which helps to reduce bleeding and also speeds up recovery.
Laser proctology has a very high success rate and offers similar or better long-term results compared to traditional surgery, with the added benefit of less pain, bleeding, and downtime. Because the laser precisely targets the affected tissue while preserving surrounding healthy structures, healing is typically faster and smoother.
Laser proctology may be recommended for haemorrhoids that are larger, more complex, or extend both inside and outside the anal canal, where banding or the Rafaelo procedure may not be as effective. Because the laser can treat multiple haemorrhoids and deeper tissue in one session, it’s often chosen when a more comprehensive, yet still minimally invasive, approach is needed.
If you have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, laser proctology may not always be suitable. Active inflammation in the bowel or rectum can increase the risk of delayed healing and complications. However, if your IBD is well controlled and your consultant confirms that the affected area is stable, laser treatment may still be an option. Your colorectal specialist will review your medical history, current medication, and recent test results before deciding on the safest and most effective treatment plan for you.