Post-Hemorrhoid Surgery Concerns and Pain Management - #48526

Hello Doctor, I had hemorrhoid surgery in the past. Now my bowel movement is mostly regular, but sometimes the stool becomes a little hard. When this happens, I get pain outside the anus and sometimes a small cut or fissure-like pain after passing stool. The pain feels external and burning/cutting, and it is worse when stool is hard. There is no heavy bleeding, only pain and irritation Most importantly today i saw . Now I have pain and a second tiny opening near the anus inside . I'm worried about a fistula but not sure? No pus yet no blood. I am trying to keep my stool soft and avoid straining. I use warm sitz baths and apply soothing cream externally. I want to know: • Is this normal after hemorrhoid surgery? • Could this be a small fissure or scar irritation? • What is the safest way to keep stool soft without strong laxatives? • Do I need any specific ointment or further treatment? Thank you for your guidance