What this experience covers
This experience describes recovery from LIFT surgery — ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract — a sphincter-sparing procedure used to treat anal fistulas. It is a composite from many anonymised accounts, capturing the common patterns across multiple recoveries.
LIFT surgery is designed to close the fistula tract while preserving sphincter function, which is why it is often chosen for fistulas that pass through the sphincter muscles. The recovery is generally less intense than open fistulotomy, but it still requires patience, wound care, and realistic expectations about the healing timeline.
The pattern
Before surgery — the lead-up
People who have LIFT surgery have usually been living with a fistula for months, sometimes longer. Many have already had a seton in place. The decision to proceed with LIFT often follows a period of assessment, imaging (usually an MRI), and discussion about whether the fistula tract is suitable for this approach.
The days before surgery are dominated by practical preparation — arranging time off work, stocking up on wound care supplies, fibre supplements, and stool softeners. Anxiety is common. People describe reading every recovery account they can find, looking for a clear timeline of what to expect.
Surgery day
LIFT surgery is typically a day procedure under general anaesthesia. It is usually shorter than people expect — often 30 to 60 minutes. People are generally discharged the same day once they have recovered from the anaesthetic.
Waking up, people describe grogginess and a dull ache in the anal area. The site may be packed or dressed. The immediate post-operative pain is generally described as moderate — present but manageable with the medication provided.
Days 1 to 3 — the acute phase
The first few days are the most uncomfortable. People describe a constant awareness of the surgical site — a raw, bruised feeling rather than sharp pain. Sitting is uncomfortable. Walking is possible but slow.
The first bowel movement is the event everyone dreads. With soft stools and stool softeners started before surgery, most people describe it as uncomfortable but manageable. The anxiety beforehand is often worse than the event itself.
Common experiences during this period:
- Pain managed with regular medication on a schedule
- Sitz baths providing significant relief
- Light wound drainage requiring pads or dressings
- Spending most of the time resting, with gentle walks around the house
Days 4 to 7 — settling in
By mid-week, a shift occurs. The acute tenderness begins to ease. Movement becomes more comfortable. People start short walks outside and light household activities.
Wound drainage continues — this is normal for LIFT surgery and can persist for several weeks. The drainage is usually light and serosanguinous (clear to slightly blood-tinged). People describe learning to manage dressings as part of a daily routine.
Weeks 2 to 3 — gradual improvement
The second and third weeks bring noticeable improvement. Pain during bowel movements decreases. Energy returns. Many people with desk jobs consider returning to work during this period, though sitting for long stretches still requires a cushion and regular breaks.
The wound continues to heal from the inside out. Some people have follow-up appointments during this period to check healing progress. The most common reassurance at this stage is hearing that the wound is closing as expected.
Weeks 4 to 6 — approaching normal
Daily life has largely returned to normal. The wound area may still be tender but is no longer the dominant feature of each day. People resume most activities, including gentle exercise.
The follow-up appointment during this period is a significant milestone. Hearing that the fistula tract appears to be closing is an enormous relief for people who have been dealing with fistula symptoms for months or years.
The longer view
Complete healing from LIFT surgery can take 6 to 12 weeks, and some people report residual tenderness or minor drainage beyond this. The success rate for LIFT surgery varies — most studies report healing in the majority of cases, but recurrence is possible. People describe a mix of cautious optimism and vigilance during the months following surgery, watching for any return of symptoms.
When to contact your doctor
- Increasing pain, swelling, or redness near the anus
- Fever or chills
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge
- New or worsening symptoms after surgery