Some patients are too sick, or the prolapse is too small to treat with surgery. Rectal prolapse does not turn into cancer if left untreated. It is possible for the prolapsed rectal mucosa to become thickened and even ulcerated over time. If a patient has surgery, they usually recover well, and their quality of life improves. The recovery time is several weeks during which time patients should add fiber to their diets, avoid straining with bowel movements and extended periods of standing. One or two follow-up visits are likely to be needed to check that incisions are healing and bowel movements getting normal.

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