These educational rectal prolapse images and medical illustrations explain how the rectum can descend, what an external prolapse may look like, and how specialists evaluate and treat the condition.
Pictures can help patients understand anatomy, but a photograph cannot reliably distinguish rectal prolapse from prolapsing hemorrhoids, mucosal prolapse, or another anorectal condition. A medical examination is the safest way to confirm the diagnosis.
External or full-thickness rectal prolapse may appear as a red or pink circular segment of tissue protruding through the anus. The surface often has concentric folds or rings. It may appear during a bowel movement and return inside afterward, require gentle manual reduction, or remain outside in more advanced cases.
Prolapsing hemorrhoids can also produce protruding tissue, but they arise from the anal canal and often form separate columns or lumps rather than the circular folds typical of full-thickness rectal prolapse. See the detailed comparison of rectal prolapse versus hemorrhoids.
Do not rely on online images for self-diagnosis, especially when bleeding, severe pain, or a new lump is present.
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum loses its normal support and descends. The term may describe:
Learn more about the types, causes, and diagnosis of rectal prolapse.
Symptoms vary with the type and severity of prolapse. Patients may notice:
The dedicated rectal prolapse symptoms guide explains what prolapse may feel like, how symptoms can progress, and which warning signs need prompt care.
Evaluation and treatment may involve:
Review the tests and procedures used for rectal prolapse or explore rectal prolapse treatment and surgery in Phoenix.
Most rectal prolapse develops gradually, but urgent medical evaluation is appropriate when:
These findings can indicate trapped tissue or impaired blood supply. Read when rectal prolapse may be an emergency.
If tissue repeatedly protrudes, requires manual reduction, or causes bleeding, mucus drainage, constipation, or stool leakage, a colorectal evaluation can confirm what is happening and clarify the treatment options.
Dr. Aisha Akhtar, MD is a board-certified colon and rectal surgeon who evaluates and treats rectal prolapse for patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, and surrounding Arizona communities.
Schedule a Rectal Prolapse Evaluation or call 602-932-5660.
This page provides general educational information and does not replace an individualized medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation.
You may also explore these guides:
Dr. Aisha Akhtar, MD provides expert evaluation and treatment of rectal prolapse, including assessment of associated constipation, pelvic floor dysfunction, and fecal incontinence. She offers individualized care ranging from symptom-directed conservative management to advanced surgical repair when indicated.
“ The whole office was wonderful. Dr Akhtar was excellent. She was thorough. She explained things extremely well. She answered all my questions. I... The whole office was wonderful. Dr Akhtar was excellent. She was thorough. She explained things extremely well. She answered all my questions. I never felt like she was rushing my exam. ”
“ Dr. Akhtar and the entire team made what could have been a very stressful experience feel comfortable, reassuring, and genuinely cared for from sta... Dr. Akhtar and the entire team made what could have been a very stressful experience feel comfortable, reassuring, and genuinely cared for from start to finish. Dr. Akhtar was professional, compassionate, and took the time to thoroughly explain everything before my procedure, which immediately put me at ease. The procedure itself went smoothly, and I truly felt I was in excellent hands the entire time. The office staff was also kind, organized, and attentive throughout the process. I’m incredibly grateful for the level of care, patience, and professionalism I received. I would absolutely recommend Dr. Akhtar to anyone looking for a skilled doctor who truly cares about their patients and their comfort. ”
“ I cannot express the how thankful I am for Dr. Akhtar. I had been to 4 other colorectal doctors, 3 gastro doctors before seeing Dr. Akhtar. I was c... I cannot express the how thankful I am for Dr. Akhtar. I had been to 4 other colorectal doctors, 3 gastro doctors before seeing Dr. Akhtar. I was crying in her office when she met me the first time. That didn't deter her. Not only that but she located the issue on my first visit. She is kind, caring, thorough and incredibly knowledgeable. She listens, spends time with you and doesn't talk over you. I've needed extra time to discuss my case many times and she has always taken the time that I needed. I've brought to her research I've read, and she always already knows about the publications. The staff are kind and helpful. I dont know what I would have done without finding her. Another health care provider recommended her highly as do I. ”
“ Best colorectal surgeon I’ve ever met. Dr. Akhtar is compassionate, gentle, warm, and caring. I came to her in Glendale after having a horrific exp... Best colorectal surgeon I’ve ever met. Dr. Akhtar is compassionate, gentle, warm, and caring. I came to her in Glendale after having a horrific experience with a general surgeon in Flagstaff (where I live). The Flagstaff surgeon caused a hemorrhage that almost cost me my life, and then I developed stenosis after the emergency room surgeon “fixed” the hemorrhage. Dr. Akhtar was kind enough to take me as a patient (most surgeons will not take a patient who has already been operated by another surgeon due to liability). She was very respectful and gentle in the examination, and was even able to fit me in for an outpatient procedure under sedation the very same day (knowing that I drove over 2 hours to see her). I could not be happier with her. She took the time to personally call me the next day to check on my progress. You do not see this type of doctor very often anymore. She is someone who is in it for the patient, and you can tell. I will continue to drive over 4 hours there and back to receive her high quality care and expertise. Cannot recommend her highly enough. ”
“ Dr. Akhtar is THE BEST provider I have ever seen, period. She is incredibly knowledgeable, informative, and above all so kind. I have not met... Dr. Akhtar is THE BEST provider I have ever seen, period. She is incredibly knowledgeable, informative, and above all so kind. I have not met many people who have as comforting a bedside manner as she does. I was educated properly every step of the way and felt confident doing so because of her caring demeanor. Her PA Moses is also so friendly and upbeat, helping to ease any tension you may be feeling prior to the exam. The energy both Dr. Akhtar and Moses bring was paramount to how excellent my experience was here. Given their specialty, it would be easy to have an uncomfortable experience. However, they go the extra mile to make sure you are comfortable and reassured before anything is done. I cannot recommend this practice enough. Thank you Dr. Akhtar for the genuine concern and care you provided to me! Both my body and my outlook on my health outcomes are better off because of you. ”
“ Amazing staff and Doctor. So caring and make you feel welcome ”
“ Dr Akhtar has a wonderful bedside manner, explains everything thoroughly and is an exceptionally skilled surgeon. We love her. :) ”
“ Friendly office and excellent doctor ”
“ Dr. Aktar was highly recommended by my primary care physician as being a good fit for me. We covered much during this initial visit and all set for... Dr. Aktar was highly recommended by my primary care physician as being a good fit for me. We covered much during this initial visit and all set for a colonoscopy next month. ”
“ Very professional & kind ! ”
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