I had the removal operation 30+ years ago, Previously tried shrinking injections and rubber banding which were only partlially successful for a limited time.
The operation was under general anaethetic and I woke up with pain but not over the top. The first time on the toilet was an adventure but with medication to make it soft it was over quickly. A warm bath helped. Soon after, I remember thinking it was worth doing rather than putting up with them.
I believe the further out of sight they are, the less pain.