During the procedure – which may be performed either without anesthesia or with local anesthesia – the doctor will insert an instrument with a light and lens, called an anoscope, through the anus. The doctor uses a special banding tool to place a small rubber band around the hemorrhoid(s). The bands cut off the blood supply, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink. The band and the hemorrhoid will fall off in about one to two weeks. After the procedure, avoid straining or bearing down.