If you or someone close to you is preparing for gallbladder surgery, you might be wondering what to expect. Don’t worry—gallbladder surgery, or cholecystectomy, is a common and relatively safe procedure that offers relief from the uncomfortable symptoms of a diseased gallbladder. This guide will walk you through the surgery, symptoms to look out for, the benefits of having the surgery, and what recovery looks like.
What Is Gallbladder Surgery?
Gallbladder surgery is the removal of the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver that helps digest fats by storing bile. While the gallbladder plays a role in digestion, it’s not essential for survival, and many people live healthy lives without it. Surgery is typically required when the gallbladder becomes diseased or develops gallstones, which can block the flow of bile and cause pain or infections.
Benefits of Gallbladder Surgery
The main benefit of gallbladder surgery is immediate and lasting relief from the discomfort caused by gallstones or inflammation. Once the gallbladder is removed, bile flows directly from the liver into the intestines. While your digestion may take time to adjust, the relief from painful symptoms makes it worthwhile.
In addition to pain reduction, surgery prevents further complications, like infections or blockages, that could require emergency treatment. Most people experience a vastly improved quality of life once they’ve recovered.
Types of Gallbladder Surgery
There are two main ways the surgery can be performed:
- Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
- This is the most common method, preferred by the board-certified gallbladder specialists at Dignity Health Medical Group. Surgeons make small incisions and use a camera and instruments to remove the gallbladder.
- Recovery is faster with this minimally invasive approach, and many patients return home the same day.
- Open Cholecystectomy
- In more complicated cases, an open surgery might be required, involving a larger incision in the abdomen.
- Recovery takes longer, with patients staying in the hospital for a few days.
Don’t worry–your surgeon will determine the best option based on your health and the complexity of your condition.
Recovery Steps and Timeline
Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is usually straightforward, with many people resuming normal activities in a week or two. Here’s a general timeline:
- First 24 hours: You may feel groggy or sore, but medication will help with discomfort. Most patients can walk around on the same day.
- First week: Stick to light activities and avoid heavy lifting. Some bloating or mild digestive changes are normal.
- Two weeks: Most people return to work and daily routines.
- Four to six weeks: Full recovery, especially for those who underwent open surgery.
Your doctor may recommend adjusting your diet temporarily, focusing on low-fat meals to give your digestive system time to adjust. Follow-up appointments will ensure you’re healing well.
When to See a Specialist
If you experience increased pain, fever, or severe digestive issues after surgery, reach out to Dignity Health Medical Group. While complications are rare, it’s important to monitor your recovery and seek help if something feels off.
Gallbladder Surgery
Gallbladder surgery can seem intimidating, but the benefits far outweigh the discomfort of recovery. With modern techniques like laparoscopic surgery, most patients bounce back quickly and feel better than ever. If you’ve been dealing with gallbladder pain or recurring symptoms, contact Dignity Health Medical Group to discuss whether surgery is the right option for you.
Remember: A well-planned surgery and good post-op care can lead to a pain-free life—so you can enjoy meals again without worrying about digestive issues! Call our Gilbert office at (480) 728-6590, our Chandler office at (602) 582-5233, or request an appointment through our secure online form.
Sources:https://agavesurgery.com/gallbladder-surgery/
https://www.parkview.com/blog/what-to-expect-with-gallbladder-surgery
https://healthcare.ascension.org/blog/2023/08/8-things-you-should-know-about-gallbladder-surgery
https://blogs.bcm.edu/2023/09/13/navigating-gallbladder-removal-what-you-need-to-know/
https://ocroboticsurgery.com/top-12-most-common-gallbladder-surgery-questions/
