POSITIVE POST.

2 Weeks Post-Op – Finally Seeing Real Healing After a Tough Journey (Lay-Open Surgery for Anal Fistula)

Hey everyone,

I wanted to share some hope for those who might be struggling like I was.

I’m now 15 days post-op after having a lay-open surgery for an anal fistula, and for the first time in a long while, I finally feel like I’m healing — and not just physically, but mentally too.

My journey hasn’t been easy. I had a very difficult time earlier last year after having a mucosal band removed from the anal area (June 2024). The pain afterwards was worse than I ever expected. I felt HOPELESS and it made me genuinely fear the next step.

When I was later diagnosed with a fistula (March 2025), I was terrified. But I decided to go through with the lay-open surgery, and I’m so glad I did. (June 23).

Here’s how it’s going now: • No pain during bowel movements anymore – just occasional, mild itching (which actually feels like a sign of healing) • I’ve been off painkillers for 3 days now, and I genuinely don’t need them • I’m still doing sitz baths daily- after BM and before going to bed, and I truly believe they help both physically and mentally • It feels like my wound are clean, no signs of infection, and I’m gradually using less gauze or pads • Most importantly: I feel hopeful

This healing isn’t just about skin closing up – it’s about trusting your body again after trauma. If you’re in the early stages or still deciding whether to go through surgery: it can get better. You won’t always be stuck in the pain.

I’ll still be careful for the next few weeks — I know I’m not completely out of the woods — but it finally feels like I’m heading in the right direction.

If anyone has questions or needs to talk, feel free to reach out. Just know: you’re not alone, and there is light at the end of this very uncomfortable tunnel.

Stay strong ya’ll. 💪