Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)

A cholecystectomy is surgery to remove the gallbladder. According to Cleveland Clinic, it’s a common and generally safe procedure most often performed to treat gallstones and related complications.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may recommend gallbladder removal if you have:

Gallstones causing pain (biliary colic)
Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
Pancreatitis caused by gallstones
Blocked bile ducts
Gallbladder polyps (in some cases)

Types of Surgery

1️⃣ Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Most Common)

Minimally invasive (small incisions)
Shorter recovery
Often same-day discharge

2️⃣ Open Cholecystectomy

Larger incision in abdomen
Used for complications or severe inflammation
Longer hospital stay

What to Expect

Before Surgery

Fasting for several hours
Blood tests and possibly imaging (ultrasound)

During Surgery

General anesthesia
Procedure typically takes 1–2 hours

After Surgery

Mild to moderate pain for a few days
Shoulder pain (from surgical gas) is common
Most people return to normal activities within:
- 1 week (laparoscopic)
- 4–6 weeks (open surgery)

Life Without a Gallbladder

The gallbladder stores bile, but your liver still produces it after removal. Most people digest food normally, though some may experience:

Temporary diarrhea
Bloating after fatty meals

Eating smaller, lower-fat meals initially can help.

Risks (Uncommon but Possible)

Infection
Bleeding
Bile leakage
Injury to nearby structures

If you’d like, I can also explain:

What recovery diet looks like
Warning signs after surgery
Long-term digestive changes
Or how to prepare before surgery

What information are you looking for specifically?