Gallbladder Removal: Your Complete Guide to a Strong Recovery

cholecystectomy, gallbladder removal is recommended when the patient suffers from stones, inflammation, or infections. When medications fail to resolve the issue, surgery is usually recommended. 

Following the surgery, most people return to their regular activities in 1-2 weeks for a laparoscopic procedure. The recovery may extend to 4-6 weeks if surgeons opt for traditional open surgery. However, your body may need a few more weeks to fully adjust, making dietary changes necessary during this time. 

The recovery is generally safe, but you may experience diarrhea or bleeding as your body adapts to processing bile without a gallbladder. More serious complications, such as infection or a bile duct injury, are rare but can occur. Fever and persistent pain are usually signs that you may need to consult your provider. 

To help you out, we asked our experts at Carolina Digestive Health Associates to share some of the ways you can ensure a long and healthy recovery after gallbladder removal.

Prioritize rest and gradually increase activity

In the days following your surgery, you may feel fatigued. Don’t fight fatigue. Instead, avoid any strenuous exercises, and if you feel the need to take a nap, listen to your body. 

Physical exercise can help by increasing blood flow and reducing the risk of blood clots, but something as light as a walk is enough to accomplish this. As you regain strength and your energy levels rise, you can gradually increase your activity levels based on how your body feels. 

Eat a low-fat, low-fiber diet

Nausea and diarrhea during the recovery period can be avoided if you adjust your diet following the surgery.

General anesthesia can temporarily make it harder for you to digest fiber. A low-fiber diet could prevent some digestive troubles. Second, in the absence of a gallbladder that produces bile, your body will have a harder time breaking down fats as only your liver is now capable of doing so. Following a low-fat diet will take some of the pressure off your liver and remove the risk of nausea. 

Stay hydrated

You’ve probably heard your entire life to drink your water, but now it is more important than ever, for several reasons, including:

• Flushing out anesthesia and other medications
• Preventing dehydration if diarrhea is present 
• Supporting digestion 
• Supporting tissue repair 

Drinking water isn’t the only way you can stay hydrated. Pickle juice, Gatorade, kefir, and yogurt are all good sources of hydration because they also contain electrolytes and minerals your body needs to make better use of the water you take in. 

Monitor for signs of complications

Most recoveries go smoothly, but it’s essential to keep an eye on any warning signs so you catch the problem early before it causes complications. Watch out for fever, pain, swelling, and discharge from the surgical site. Although some digestive discomfort is expected, if your symptoms are severe and you experience severe bloating and diarrhea, contact your medical provider to ensure you are doing well. 

Learn more about your gallbladder removal recovery

Gallbladder removal surgery can significantly improve your quality of life. You won’t have to worry about gallstones, sharp pain, and discomfort. However, many people ask themselves how their life will be after they remove their gallbladder. Since your gallbladder is a non-essential organ and your liver still produces some bile, you will be able to live your life without worry. Each recovery is unique, but if you follow your medical provider’s recommendations and are mindful of your body’s signals, you’ll recover quickly and comfortably. 

If you are planning to remove your gallbladder or need medical advice on your recovery journey, contact us to schedule an appointment.