I feel like the constant sitz baths are making the anal area very tight and dry feeling. When I put a little Vaseline on it, it feels much more comfortable. Is it ok to keep the area a little moist?

I kept vaseline on mine rhs. I always made sure it was clean and either air dried or blow dryer on cool before applying the vaseline. I didn't heal and had the surgery last year, so you may not want my advice, Lol. All that I can say is vaseline was my friend and I didn't get any infections or anything prior to surgery. I have read on the internet something about the vaseline harboring bacteria, but I really don't think it would if it's clean and dry before applying it.The warm baths seem like they could dry it out down there. I know my skin was really dry after 8 months of living in one.
I just wanted to say I think you have a real level head about this and your CRS sounds like a good one. Good luck and I agree move on to the surgery if it becomes chronic.

ps.. I'm not sure if your using a bath tub or the sitz bath but laying in a bath tub seemed to cause less pressure on that area and many of us found it to be more comfortable then the sitz baths...

Update: So I've been using the nifedipine for almost 2 weeks now and I've had a subtle improvement. Easier to walk and sit now, but still tremendous pain when having a BM. It still bleeds. Oh I forgot to mention, I was blessed with 2 anal fissures. One at 6 and one at 12. Lucky me! I have 2 weeks remaining before I go see the CRS for a follow up. Did I mention I was fortunate enough to develop a painful boil in my anal region as well? That's been amazing to deal with! Ughhhhh. Trying to stay positive :)