Laser surgery uses a fine laser fibre to treat the affected tissue through very small openings, rather than cutting it away. At NZ General Surgery & Medical, Dr Rick Cirolli uses laser to treat haemorrhoids (laser haemorrhoidoplasty, or LHP), pilonidal sinus and anal fistula. Procedures are done in Auckland. Consultations are available in Auckland, in Gisborne, and NZ-wide by phone or video.

Dr Rick Cirolli offers three laser procedures: laser haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) for haemorrhoids, laser ablation of pilonidal sinus, and laser ablation of anal fistula. Each is suitable for selected patients. A consultation decides whether laser is the right option for your condition.

Laser treatment uses a fine laser fibre to treat the affected tissue through very small openings, rather than cutting it away. For suitable patients, potential benefits may include:

Sedation and local anaesthetic, with no general anaesthetic

Smaller wounds and less bleeding

Less discomfort after the procedure for many patients

An earlier return to normal activities for some patients

Laser isn’t suitable for everyone, and like any procedure it carries some risks. At your consultation, Dr Rick will talk you through whether laser is right for you, the possible risks, your other options (including traditional surgery), and what recovery is likely to look like for you.

Laser procedures at NZGS are done under sedation and local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. Afterwards, most patients report mild to moderate discomfort, which is usually managed with regular pain relief. How much discomfort you have depends on your condition and how extensive the treatment is. Dr Rick Cirolli will explain what to expect for you.

Laser haemorrhoid, pilonidal sinus and anal fistula procedures usually take around 60 minutes, depending on your condition and how severe it is. They are day procedures in Auckland, so most patients go home the same day.

Recovery varies based on the type of treatment. For pilonidal sinus, patients often return to normal activities within a few days — and no daily dressing changes are usually required.

Most patients need one procedure, but some may need a follow-up treatment. This is more likely with complex anal fistulas or recurrent pilonidal sinus. Dr Rick Cirolli will discuss this with you at your consultation as part of your personal treatment plan.

No, you don't need a GP referral to book a consultation with Dr Rick Cirolli. We still recommend involving your GP, because they know your health history, and we keep them informed about your care. GPs can send urgent referrals to NZ General Surgery & Medical.

Yes. Dr Rick Cirolli offers phone and video consultations NZ-wide, so you can find out whether laser treatment suits you before travelling to Auckland. In-person consultations are available at Remuera Surgical Care in Auckland and at NZ General Surgery & Medical in Gisborne.

Consultations with Dr Rick Cirolli start from $14 360. Laser procedure fees depend on your condition and how much treatment you need, and we'll give you a written estimate after your consultation. Call Auckland 09 399 2844 or Gisborne 06 868 9595 for more information.