Why do I need my gallbladder removed?

Gallbladder removal is usually recommended when gallstones cause recurring pain, inflammation, infection or other complications. Removing the gallbladder prevents further episodes caused by gallstones.

Can I live normally without a gallbladder?

Yes. The liver continues to produce bile after gallbladder removal. For most people, digestion is not significantly affected, although some may notice temporary changes in bowel habits after surgery.

How long does it take to recover from gallbladder surgery?

Recovery varies between patients, but many people return to light activities within a few days and normal activities within a couple of weeks. Will will provide personalised advice about returning to work, driving and exercise.

What happens during a gallbladder surgery consultation?

During your consultation, Will will assess your symptoms, review any investigations and explain whether surgery is appropriate. He will discuss the procedure, expected recovery and any risks specific to your situation.

What are the risks of gallbladder removal?

Gallbladder surgery is considered safe and effective, but as with all operations there are risks including infection, bleeding and reactions to anaesthetic. Specific risks, including bile duct injury or the need to convert to open surgery, will be discussed before your procedure.

Do I need a referral to see Dr Anderson?

Most insurers will require you to have had a referral from your GP if you want to arrange a specialist consultation. If you have questions about self-referral or appointments, feel free to contact us.

Gallbladder surgery - Will Anderson

Understanding gallstones

Gallstone disease occurs when stones form inside the gallbladder and begin causing pain, inflammation, or infection. When symptoms develop, the most effective treatment is usually laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a minimally invasive keyhole operation to remove the gallbladder.

The gallbladder and gallstones

Gallstones are small stones, most commonly made of cholesterol, that develop in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small pouch beneath the liver on the upper right side of the abdomen which stores bile to aid digestion.

Many people have gallstones without knowing it, but problems arise when a stone blocks the gallbladder outlet or bile ducts. This can trigger biliary colic, a severe upper‑abdominal pain often brought on after eating, particularly fatty meals.

If the blockage persists, it may lead to cholecystitis (gallbladder infection), jaundice, or pancreatitis, all of which require prompt medical attention. Gallstone disease is common, especially in people over 40, women, those with a family history, people with higher body weight, or those who have had rapid weight loss.

Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)

When gallstones cause symptoms or complications, the recommended treatment is removal of the gallbladder. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the modern standard of care. This minimally invasive procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and uses several small incisions to introduce a camera and fine instruments.

The gallbladder is carefully separated from the liver and bile duct, then removed through one of the small ports. Compared with traditional open surgery, the laparoscopic approach offers less postoperative pain, smaller scars, a shorter hospital stay, and faster return to normal activities. Most patients go home within 24 hours and resume light activity within a few days. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 2 weeks after surgery.

Preparing for surgery

Ahead of surgery, (and always) it is recommended that patients follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Smoking and vaping cause many health problems and can also delay recovery.

Prior to surgery, you may be required to have a blood test to check your liver function. This will be discussed with you. Some patients are also required to follow an Optifast diet for two weeks ahead of surgery. This reduces the amount of fat around the liver and, for the patients requiring it, the risks of the surgery.

It is important to discuss any medication you are taking with the surgeon ahead of surgery, as this may need changing ahead of the operation.

You will receive a phone call from Allevia Kensington Hospital letting you know what time you will need to be at the hospital. They will also give you instructions about fasting ahead of your operation.

Patients will usually require an overnight stay in hospital and will need to arrange a ride home the following day.

On the day of the operation, Will will meet you and consent you for surgery. He will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you have. It is important that all patients understand what is involved.

Risks of Gallbladder removal surgery

Serious complications from gallbladder removal are uncommon, and the procedure is considered safe and effective for long‑term relief of gallstone‑related symptoms. However, with all surgeries there is a small risk of infection, allergic reactions to the anaesthetic or medications and bleeding.

With gallbladder surgery, around 1 in 400 patients may suffer a bile duct injury or leakage that can require a second operation to fix. It may also be necessary to ‘convert to open’ which involves opening the abdomen through an incision under the ribs on the right side. This involves a longer stay in hospital and a delayed recovery.

For many people, living without a gallbladder does not cause any symptoms. The liver continues to produce bile for digestion, but instead of being stored, it flows directly into the intestine. Approximately 1 in 10 patients may notice looser more frequent stools, often after fatty meals, but this usually settles with time.

After your surgery

Will will meet you in the recovery area and discuss with you the results of the surgery. Patients usually require an overnight stay at the hospital, if this is the case for you, you will be moved to the ward.

Will will check on you the following day and ensure that it is safe to discharge you from hospital. You will not be able to drive and will need someone to take you home.

Patients are allowed to drive again once they can safely perform an emergency stop, usually 7-10 days after surgery. A letter explaining the outcome of the surgery will also be sent to you and your GP. A follow up consultation will be arranged, usually 2-4 weeks after the surgery.

In the meantime, if you experience any severe pain in the neck, chest or abdomen please contact us. Also let us know if you experience any fevers, chills or jaundice and if there is any redness or leakage around the incision sites.

Some patients have difficulty passing bowel motions after surgery, if you haven’t had a motion for 2-3 days after surgery, please get in touch.

After surgery, most patients can return to normal light activities within 2 weeks. However, it is important to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for the first 4 weeks after surgery.