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Gallbladder Removal Surgery

Gallbladder removal surgery, also known as cholecystectomy, is a common procedure used to treat gallbladder conditions that cause pain, inflammation, or digestive problems. At Transform, gallbladder surgery is delivered through consultant-led care, with a clear focus on safety, effectiveness, and recovery.
This page explains what the gallbladder does, when removal may be recommended, how the procedure works, and what to expect before and after surgery.

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Surgery Time

30–60 minutes

Time Off Work

Around 2 weeks

Hospital Stay:

Day case for 80–90% of patients

Full Recovery

From 2–4 weeks

Exercise

Light exercise from 3 weeks

Scarring

Minimal, particularly with keyhole surgery

What is gallbladder removal surgery?

Gallbladder removal surgery is a procedure to remove the gallbladder. Removal is usually recommended when gallstones have formed and are causing issues such as abdominal pain. The surgery is medically known as cholecystectomy.

The gallbladder is not an essential organ, and most people can live normally without it.

Gallbladder Removal Surgery FAQs

What is the gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a small organ beneath the liver that stores bile, which helps the body digest fats.
Gallbladder removal surgery, or cholecystectomy, is the surgical removal of the gallbladder to treat gallstones, inflammation, or related complications.
Gallbladder removal surgery usually takes 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the surgical approach and complexity of the case.
Yes. The gallbladder is not essential, and most people live a normal life without it after surgery.
Your consultant and our nursing team will talk you through how to prepare before your surgery date. You will likely be required to follow a special pre operative diet for a short time, and we may require an ultrasound scan prior to surgery.
Recovery after gallbladder removal is usually straightforward. Most people return to light activities within days and to normal daily activity within 1–2 weeks, with around 2 weeks off work on average. We advise no driving for the first week, and light exercise from around 3 weeks. Full recovery is typically achieved within 2–4 weeks, although this varies from person to person, and your surgeon will advise you when it is safe to return to heavier or strenuous activity.
After surgery, a light, low-fat diet is often recommended initially. Most people can gradually return to a normal diet as digestion adjusts.
Most people do not experience long-term problems. Some may notice mild digestive changes, which usually settle over time.
Gallbladder removal does not usually cause liver problems. If symptoms persist after surgery, your consultant will investigate further.
Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but pain is usually manageable with medication and improves steadily during recovery.
A specialist consultation and imaging tests can determine whether gallbladder removal is recommended based on your symptoms and diagnosis.
You can book a consultation with our specialist team to discuss your symptoms, treatment options, and whether gallbladder removal surgery is right for you.

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Mr Hisham Abouzeid

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Mr Sirhan Alvi

Mr Sirhan Alvi

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Dr Humayun Ayub

Dr Humayun Ayub

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Mr Mubashir Cheema

Mr Mubashir Cheema

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Dr Anna De Leo

Dr Anna De Leo

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Dr Vinnie During

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