Procedure

Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids and Anal Fistulas in Santa Ana, CA

Hemorrhoids and anal fistulas can be painful and persistent, but treatment doesn’t have to be. Laser therapy is a modern, minimally invasive option that targets the problem directly—reducing discomfort, promoting faster healing, and helping you get back to living without interruption.

If you’re dealing with painful hemorrhoids or a recurring anal fistula, you deserve a solution that doesn’t make recovery worse than the problem. At Your Friendly Proctologist, Dr. Albert Chung offers advanced laser treatment for hemorrhoids and fistulas designed to reduce pain, speed healing, and help you get back to your life faster.

What Is Laser Hemorrhoidplasty (LHP)?

Laser Hemorrhoidplasty (LHP) is a minimally invasive hemorrhoid procedure that uses focused laser energy to shrink internal hemorrhoids from the inside out — no cutting, no stitches, and far less pain than traditional hemorrhoidectomy.

Here’s how it works:
Once the area is numbed with local anesthetic, a tiny incision is made next to the hemorrhoid. A laser fiber optic instrument is then inserted directly into the hemorrhoid to deliver targeted energy. This causes the blood vessels to shrink and scar internally, which reduces swelling and relieves symptoms like bleeding, itching, and pain.

Dr. Chung performs this in-office while patients are awake or in an operating room under anesthesia. Unlike rubber band ligation or infrared coagulation, LHP treats the hemorrhoid tissue without cutting it off — making it a preferred option for moderate to severe cases where long-term results and reduced pain are priorities.

What Is FiLaC for Anal Fistulas?

FiLaC (Fistula Laser Closure) is a cutting-edge treatment for anal fistulas that preserves muscle and minimizes risk of incontinence. Using a similar laser technology, the procedure targets the internal tract (or tunnel) created by the fistula.

First, the tunnel is located and cleaned. Then a fine laser fiber is inserted to apply controlled energy throughout the full length of the tract. An internal stitch is placed at the internal opening of the anus, and the outer opening is left open to allow any infection to drain safely.

This technique is ideal for patients seeking a sphincter-sparing fistula surgery with lower recurrence and less postoperative pain than traditional cutting or seton placement.

When Is Laser Treatment the Right Choice?

Laser treatment is most effective for patients who want to avoid the long, painful recovery associated with conventional surgery. If you have:

  • Bleeding with bowel movements

  • Rectal itching or swelling

  • Anal pain while sitting

  • Drainage from a recurring fistula

…then you might be a candidate for laser hemorrhoid or fistula surgery.

That said, not every patient is a match, and not every hemorrhoid or fistula is best treated with a laser. Dr. Chung uses his surgical experience to evaluate the size, location, and complexity of each case and recommends the right technique — whether that’s laser, surgical excision, or a hybrid approach.

Why Choose Dr. Chung?

Dr. Chung doesn’t just perform the procedure and send you on your way. As Your Friendly Proctologist, he:

  • Personally calls patients post-op

  • Is available to discuss diet, wound care, pain, and recovery

  • Combines multiple techniques to minimize pain and maximize long-term success

  • Tailors treatment to avoid recurrence or prolapse wherever possible

He also understands how deeply personal and frustrating anal surgery can be. That’s why you’ll never be rushed, ignored, or left wondering what’s next.

What to Expect Before and After Laser Treatment

Before your procedure, you’ll receive specific prep instructions. Most patients are advised to:

  • Eat light meals

  • Use a stool softener starting the night before

  • Pick up pain medication and gauze beforehand

After surgery, expect the most discomfort within the first 3 to 5 days — especially after bowel movements. Most patients heal about 80–90% within 2 weeks, but full healing may vary based on the severity of the condition and how closely the wound is monitored.

For fistula surgery, post-op care is even more important. Dr. Chung places patients on a personalized wound care program and schedules follow-ups to ensure optimal healing. His priority isn’t just getting you through the procedure — it’s helping you fully recover with minimal setbacks.

Frequently asked questions

No items found.

Still have questions?

We are here to hear you as you heal. Feel free to reach out to us.

Schedule your consultation to explore Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids and Anal Fistulas.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment greatly improve colorectal cancer outcomes. Call Dr. Albert Chung’s colorectal clinic in Orange County.