How do I decide on the fistulatomy operation if I only had symptoms for 3 weeks? Had first abbsess 3 weeks ago, it drained, I felt better and then 2 weeks later I feel it starting to be tender again. Went to a surgeon and he said it is most likely a fistula and recommended an operation. Since it is new occurance and not chronic, is it too soon to go for as drastic as operation. The doctor stated that 99% they do not heal on their own. I do not have severe symptoms.