Gallbladder Removal Surgery: Causes, Procedure, and Recovery

To the right of your abdomen, directly beneath your liver, sits a small pear-shaped organ called the gallbladder. Its primary function is to store bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats in your small intestine.

Sometimes, gallstones—hardened deposits of digestive fluid—form in the gallbladder. These can range in size and number, sometimes causing pain and digestive issues. In severe cases, gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy) may be necessary to prevent complications.

What Is Gallbladder Removal Surgery?

Gallbladder removal surgery, also known as a cholecystectomy, is a common but major procedure used to treat gallstones and gallbladder disease. While doctors typically do not rush into surgery, removing the gallbladder is often the best long-term solution for patients with recurrent gallstone attacks or complications.

In most cases, gallbladder surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can go home the same day.

Types of Gallbladder Removal Surgery

There are two primary types of cholecystectomy procedures:

• Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Minimally Invasive Surgery):
  • The surgeon makes four small incisions in the abdomen.
  • A tiny video camera and surgical tools are inserted to remove the gallbladder.
  • This method results in less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery time.
• Open Cholecystectomy (Traditional Surgery):
  • The surgeon makes one larger incision in the abdomen.
  • This method is used if laparoscopic surgery isn’t possible due to complications.
  • Recovery takes longer, and a hospital stay of 3-5 days is typically required.

What Are the Risks of Gallbladder Removal Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, cholecystectomy comes with potential risks, including:

• Bile leakage
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Injury to nearby structures (such as the bile duct, liver, or small intestine)
• Risks from general anesthesia (including blood clots and pneumonia)

The likelihood of complications depends on your overall health, the severity of your gallbladder condition, and the type of procedure performed.

Gallbladder Removal Surgery Recovery

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Your recovery time depends on whether you had laparoscopic or open surgery:

• Laparoscopic Surgery:
  • Outpatient procedure – most patients go home the same day.
  • Recovery takes about 1-2 weeks before returning to normal activities.
• Open Surgery:
  • Requires a 3-5 day hospital stay.
  • Full recovery may take 6-8 weeks.

Post-Surgery Care & Considerations

• You will not be able to drive immediately after surgery, so arrange for someone to take you home.
• If discharged the same day, it’s best to have someone stay with you for 24 hours while the effects of anesthesia wear off.
• Your doctor will provide dietary recommendations to ease digestion after gallbladder removal.

When Is Gallbladder Removal Surgery Necessary?

If gallstones do not cause symptoms, surgery may not be needed. However, if you experience pain and discomfort, removal is often recommended.

Common Symptoms of Gallbladder Issues:

• Severe pain in the upper right abdomen or below the breastbone
• Back pain between the shoulder blades
• Pain in the right shoulder
• Nausea and vomiting

Doctors usually do not rush to remove the gallbladder unless multiple attacks occur. However, surgery is the best way to prevent future problems.

Find Expert Gallbladder Surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area

If you need gallbladder removal surgery, the specialists at BASS Medical Group provide expert care in Northern California’s Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our highly trained gastroenterologists and surgeons specialize in both minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy and traditional open surgery, ensuring that patients receive the most effective treatment for their condition.

To consult with a gallbladder specialist and explore your surgical options, visit our specialist page to learn more and schedule an appointment today.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. BASS Medical Group does not endorse any specific claims or treatments mentioned. Individual results may vary, and it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.