Haemorrhoid Treatment in Melbourne

The cost depends on the treatment required. Rubber band ligation is a Medicare-eligible procedure when performed for a clinically appropriate indication, and out-of-pocket costs are generally low for privately insured patients. For surgical haemorrhoidectomy, total costs include the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, and hospital facility charges.

With private health insurance, out-of-pocket costs for haemorrhoidectomy typically range from $500-$2,500, depending on your fund, policy level, and whether the procedure is performed as a day or overnight admission. Your specific out-of-pocket estimate will be provided before any procedure. We recommend contacting your health fund to confirm your cover and any applicable waiting periods.

Internal haemorrhoids develop above the dentate line inside the anal canal, where there are few pain receptors. They typically cause painless rectal bleeding and, in more advanced cases, prolapse through the anus.

External haemorrhoids develop below the dentate line and are covered by skin sensitive to pain. They may cause perianal swelling, discomfort, and itching. Some patients have a combination of internal and external haemorrhoids. The treatment approach differs depending on the type, grade, and symptoms.

Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort and a feeling of pressure or fullness in the 24-48 hours after rubber band ligation, rather than sharp pain.

This is because the band is placed above the dentate line, where the bowel lining is not sensitive to pain. Paracetamol and anti-inflammatory medication are generally sufficient for relief. Significant pain following banding is uncommon and should prompt a review to ensure the band has not been placed too low.

Surgery is generally recommended for Grade III haemorrhoids that have not responded adequately to rubber band ligation, for Grade IV haemorrhoids that remain prolapsed and cannot be reduced, and for large or symptomatic external haemorrhoids.

Surgery is also considered when internal and external haemorrhoids are present together and require combined treatment, or when a thrombosed external haemorrhoid is causing severe pain within the first 48-72 hours of onset.

Most patients return to desk-based work within 1-2 weeks and feel substantially better within 2-4 weeks. Post-operative pain during the first week is the main recovery challenge and is managed with regular analgesia and stool softeners.

Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are restricted for 4 weeks. Full recovery varies between individuals, but most patients report significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life within 4-6 weeks.

Recurrence is possible after any form of haemorrhoid treatment, and is more common after rubber band ligation than after surgical haemorrhoidectomy. Studies report 5-year recurrence rates of 10-20% with rubber band ligation, compared with less than 5% with excisional haemorrhoidectomy ^[3].

Maintaining a high-fibre diet, staying well hydrated, and avoiding prolonged straining significantly reduce the risk of recurrence regardless of the treatment used.

Yes. Both rubber band ligation and haemorrhoidectomy are listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) when performed for a clinically appropriate indication.

Private health insurance typically covers the hospital and anaesthesia component for surgical procedures, subject to your policy level and any applicable waiting periods. We recommend confirming your entitlements with your fund before your consultation.

Haemorrhoids are common during pregnancy due to increased pelvic pressure and constipation. For most pregnant patients, management focuses on conservative measures including dietary fibre, adequate hydration, and topical treatments.

Procedural or surgical treatment is generally deferred until after delivery. Most pregnancy-related haemorrhoids improve spontaneously following childbirth. If symptoms are severe or persistent, Dr Tiang can advise on the safest management options for your stage of pregnancy.

Conservative measures are effective for mild haemorrhoids and reduce the risk of recurrence after treatment. These include increasing dietary fibre to 25-30 grams per day through fruit, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains; drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily; using stool softeners if your stools are hard; avoiding straining during bowel movements; and not delaying the urge to defecate.

Warm sitz baths for 10-15 minutes after bowel movements can provide comfort, and topical creams may relieve short-term itching and discomfort.

You should seek a surgical opinion if you have persistent or recurrent rectal bleeding, prolapsing haemorrhoids that do not return on their own, significant ongoing discomfort or itching, or if conservative management has not provided adequate relief.

Rectal bleeding should always be assessed by a doctor to exclude other conditions, including colorectal cancer. If you are aged 45 or over with new rectal bleeding, or have bleeding alongside a change in bowel habit, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, earlier investigation is recommended.