Rubber band ligation treats haemorrhoids by placing a small band around the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall away naturally within a week or so. It’s one of the most common first-line treatments for haemorrhoids that haven’t settled with lifestyle changes alone.
What is rubber band ligation?
A small elastic band is placed around the base of an internal haemorrhoid using a special applicator, without the need for cutting or anaesthetic in most cases. The band cuts off circulation to the haemorrhoid, which then shrinks and separates on its own.
Who it is suitable for
- Grade I–II internal haemorrhoids
- Haemorrhoids that haven’t improved with diet and lifestyle changes
- Patients wanting a quick, low-downtime clinic procedure
- Those who prefer to avoid surgery if a simpler option is appropriate
Your treatment options
Banding can be adapted to how many haemorrhoids you have and how they respond to the first session.
For one haemorrhoid, a single band is often all that’s needed to resolve it within a week.
Several smaller haemorrhoids can often be banded together in the same short appointment.
Larger or multiple haemorrhoids are sometimes banded over more than one visit, spaced a few weeks apart for comfort.
If banding doesn’t fully resolve symptoms, Rafaelo® or surgery remain available as the next step.
Recovery & aftercare
Most patients go home the same day. Mr Kimble and his team give you clear, written aftercare advice and a direct point of contact, with structured follow-up to make sure you’re healing well.
While haemorrhoids are usually harmless, any bleeding from the back passage should be checked by a specialist to rule out other causes. Booking an assessment gives you peace of mind.
Recovery, honestly
This is genuinely one of the easiest procedures on the haemorrhoid treatment pathway. Most people feel a sensation of pressure rather than pain, and any mild aching typically settles within a day or two. It’s common to have more than one haemorrhoid banded, sometimes across more than one session.
