The gallbladder is a small organ beneath your liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats.
When it’s removed, bile flows directly from the liver to the small intestine — digestion usually continues normally.

⚕️ Reasons for Gallbladder Removal

  • Gallstones (the most common reason)
  • Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
  • Bile duct blockage
  • Gallbladder polyps or infection
  • Severe abdominal pain after eating fatty foods

🔪 Types of Surgery

  1. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (keyhole surgery)
    • Minimally invasive
    • 3–4 small cuts
    • Usually discharged within 1–2 days
    • Faster recovery
  2. Open cholecystectomy
    • Larger incision (for complicated cases)
    • Longer hospital stay and recovery time

⏱️ Recovery

  • Hospital stay: 1–2 days (laparoscopic), 4–5 days (open)
  • Home recovery: 1–2 weeks for laparoscopic, 4–6 weeks for open
  • Light diet initially — avoid fatty or fried foods for a while

⚠️ Possible Side Effects / Risks

  • Temporary diarrhea or bloating
  • Mild pain at incision sites
  • Rarely: infection, bleeding, or bile duct injury
  • Some people experience mild digestive changes long-term

🍽️ Post-Surgery Diet Tips

  • Eat small, frequent meals
  • Limit fatty, spicy, or greasy foods
  • Gradually reintroduce normal diet
  • Stay hydrated