Hemorrhoid Banding

Hemorrhoid banding is a quick, non-surgical procedure performed right in our Katy office. Preparation is minimal, recovery is fast, and most patients return to normal activities within a day or two.

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No Fasting Required

Eat a light meal before your visit

No Sedation

You can safely drive yourself home

Quick Procedure

In and out in under 30 minutes

What Is Hemorrhoid Banding?

Hemorrhoid banding, also called rubber band ligation, is the most effective non-surgical treatment for internal hemorrhoids. Dr. Maher places a small rubber band at the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off on its own within a few days.

The procedure takes only a few minutes. No sedation, no incisions, and no hospital visit. Dr. Maher performs every banding procedure himself at our Katy office.

Your Step-by-Step Prep Timeline

7Days

7 Days Before Your Procedure

Contact our office if you take blood thinners such as warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto, or Plavix. These medications may need to be paused before the procedure to reduce bleeding risk. Do not stop any medication without speaking to us first.

Continue taking stool softeners if Dr. Maher has recommended them. Staying regular before and after the procedure helps with comfort and healing.

1Day

1 Day Before Your Procedure

No special diet is required. Eat and drink normally.

Stay well hydrated, as hydration supports softer stools and a smoother recovery process.

OfDay

The Morning of Your Procedure

Eat a light breakfast or meal before your appointment. Unlike colonoscopy or endoscopy, hemorrhoid banding does not require fasting.

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.

Checklist for Procedure Day

Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time. The entire visit, including the procedure, typically takes 30 minutes or less.

No driver is required. Hemorrhoid banding does not involve sedation. You may drive yourself to and from the appointment.

Bring With You:

Photo ID
Insurance card
List of all current medications

What Happens During the Procedure

The Setup

You will lie on your side on the exam table. Dr. Maher uses a small scope to identify the internal hemorrhoid that needs to be treated.

The Banding

He places a tiny rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. Most patients feel a brief sensation of pressure or tightness, but it is not painful.

Quick Visit

Most patients are in and out in under 30 minutes. Depending on the number of hemorrhoids, Dr. Maher may treat one or two at a time.

After Your Hemorrhoid Banding

What Is Normal

Expect a dull ache, a feeling of fullness in the rectal area, or a sensation of needing to have a bowel movement. Minor spotting is common.

Pain Relief

Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) and use a sitz bath 2–3 times per day. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil) as they increase bleeding risk.

Diet & Hydration

Drink plenty of water and eat high-fiber foods to keep stools soft. Continue any stool softeners Dr. Maher has recommended.

Activity Limits

Avoid heavy lifting and straining for 48 to 72 hours. Do not sit for extended periods — take short walks to promote circulation.

The banded hemorrhoid will shrink and fall off on its own, usually within 3 to 7 days. You may not notice when this happens. A small amount of bleeding during this process is normal. Most patients return to work and normal activities the same day or the next day.

When to Contact Our Office

Call us right away at (346) 637-4874 if you experience any of the following after hemorrhoid banding. If you cannot reach our office and symptoms are severe, go to the nearest emergency room.

Heavy or continuous bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure
Severe pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication
Fever above 101°F
Inability to urinate
Increasing swelling or discharge from the rectal area

Hemorrhoid Banding FAQs

Clear answers to ensure you are ready for your procedure.

Is hemorrhoid banding painful?

Most patients describe a brief feeling of pressure or tightness during the procedure. It is not typically painful. You may experience a dull ache for the first day or two afterward, which responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers and sitz baths.

How long does the procedure take?

The banding itself takes only a few minutes. Your entire visit, including check-in, will typically last about 30 minutes.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on the number and size of your hemorrhoids. Many patients need only one session. If you have multiple hemorrhoids, Dr. Maher may schedule two or three sessions spaced a few weeks apart. He will discuss a treatment plan with you at your initial consultation.

Can I go back to work the same day?

Most patients can return to work and normal activities the same day or the following day. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 48 to 72 hours.

Will hemorrhoids come back after banding?

Banding is highly effective, with success rates above 80 percent. However, new hemorrhoids can develop over time if the underlying causes are not addressed. Dr. Maher will discuss long-term strategies, including diet, hydration, and lifestyle changes, to reduce the chance of recurrence.

Is banding better than surgery?

For most patients with internal hemorrhoids, banding is the first-line treatment. It is less invasive, requires no sedation, has a shorter recovery, and is performed in the office rather than an operating room. Dr. Maher will recommend surgery only if banding is not appropriate for your situation.

Do I need sedation for this procedure?

No. Hemorrhoid banding is performed without sedation. You will be fully awake and able to drive yourself home afterward.

Questions About Your Procedure?

Hemorrhoid problems can feel uncomfortable to talk about, but our team handles these concerns every day. If you have questions about what to expect, call our office. We are here to help.

Call (346) 637-4874 Book Appointment

Office Hours

Mon–Thu: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Location

19255 Park Row #104
Houston, TX 77084