I had the external hemorrhoidectomy on 06/01 and I have also had an internal hemorrhoidectomy about 8 years ago. I would have to say the external is the worse surgery I have ever had as far as recovery. I think the swelling it what makes everything so difficult. I do the sitz bath multiple times but does anyone have any other suggestions on minimizing the swelling? I'm scared to eat because I want to have as few BM's as possible.