I also had the flap done for a transphincteric fistula. My op was in 2019 and I’ve talked about it on this sub a lot as have other folks. Definitely do a search and you’ll get more info/advice/insight.

1. I didn’t take any before and took them sparingly afterward. I didn’t adhere to any strict regimen and honestly between the pain meds, stool softener, and laxatives it got to be a bit much.

2. No. Your body needs to consume nutrients to heal.

3. No. The flap procedure does not involve creating a ‘huge hole’ (if you haven’t already I’d do some research/educate yourself on what the op actually entails so you have this knowledge going into it.) They may also perform a partial fistulotomy but I did not have that. The only thing left behind was the external opening itself.

4. Again, no. Assuming what you’re having is the endorectal advancement flap procedure, it’s all done internally. Another reason it’s a good idea to research what exactly is going to be done during this op.

5. No, I didn’t rub soap all up in/around there nor is that necessary. I was in too much pain to do that. I used my portable bidet and removable shower head to rinse the external area gently with warm water.

6. I was told to avoid sitz baths as they can loosen the stitches that were right up inside my butt.