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Procedures

Hemorrhoid banding

Hemorrhoid banding, or rubber band ligation, treats internal hemorrhoids without surgery. A small rubber band is placed at the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply so it shrinks and falls off within about a week.

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Who it helps

  • Internal hemorrhoids that bleed or protrude
  • Symptoms that continue despite fiber, fluids and over-the-counter treatments
  • People who want to avoid hemorrhoid surgery

Banding is not used for external hemorrhoids, which sit below the area that lacks pain nerves.

What to expect

Banding is done in the office in a few minutes, with no sedation, incision or prep beyond what your instructions say. Usually one hemorrhoid is treated per visit, so several visits a few weeks apart may be needed.

Recovery

A feeling of fullness or mild ache for a day or two is common and eases with warm baths and over-the-counter pain relief. Most people return to normal activities the same or next day. Fiber and fluids help prevent recurrence.

Risks

Complications are uncommon: bleeding when the band falls off, significant pain, or, rarely, infection. Call right away for fever, trouble urinating, heavy bleeding or severe pain. Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated, since not all bleeding is from hemorrhoids.

Common questions

Does it hurt?

Most people feel pressure rather than pain.

Will hemorrhoids come back?

They can, especially without fiber and good bathroom habits, but banding works well for most people.

Questions about hemorrhoid treatment? Call (813) 400-0543 or send a message.

Dr. Brian Frank, MD
Written and reviewed by Brian Frank, MD
Board-certified gastroenterologist (ABIM). Last reviewed October 8, 2026.

This page is general information, not medical advice. For a medical emergency, call 911.