{"id":596,"date":"2018-10-09T13:31:37","date_gmt":"2018-10-09T13:31:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/msapc.managed3.brouser.net\/general-surgery\/?p=596"},"modified":"2021-07-19T02:03:46","modified_gmt":"2021-07-19T02:03:46","slug":"no-gallbladder-no-problem-what-to-expect-post-surgery","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/msapc.com\/general-surgery\/blog\/2018\/10\/09\/no-gallbladder-no-problem-what-to-expect-post-surgery\/","title":{"rendered":"No Gallbladder, No Problem: What to Expect Post Surgery"},"content":{"rendered":"

Undergoing a gallbladder removal at some point is fairly common for many. To live and maintain a healthy lifestyle without a gallbladder, it\u2019s important to first understand <\/span>what the gallbladder does<\/span><\/a> so you know what your body\u2019s missing and what you need to do to make up for it. <\/span><\/p>\n

Your gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located under your liver, in the upper-right area of your abdomen. Its purpose is to store and deliver bile \u2014 the fluid that helps digest food. If your gallbladder is not working properly, or your bile becomes out of balance, hard fragments called gallstones start to form. These fragments can be as small as a grain of rice or as big as a golf ball, and unfortunately, they don\u2019t go away on their own. <\/span><\/p>\n

If you experience pain or other symptoms including fever, diarrhea or unusual bowel movements, nausea and jaundice, a surgical removal of your gallbladder may be necessary. This type of surgery is common and referred to as a cholecystectomy. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rest assured, you can most definitely live without your gallbladder, but you will need to make a few adjustments to your lifestyle and eating habits to avoid any problems and reduce discomfort post surgery. Read on to learn what you can expect following a gallbladder procedure.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Happens After My Surgery?<\/b><\/p>\n

After a gallbladder removal, the time it takes you to heal depends on the type of procedure you had. When you undergo an open surgery, we often require you to stay in the hospital for a few days to make sure you feel comfortable enough to head home. With this type of operation, you can expect a 6 to 8 week recovery.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you decide on a Laparoscopy procedure, it\u2019s far less invasive, meaning you\u2019ll experience less pain and a faster recovery. Most patients are able to go home the same day and typical recovery turnaround is 2 weeks. The disadvantage to this surgery is that the operation time takes a bit longer. <\/span><\/p>\n

While most people don\u2019t feel any different or experience any major changes in digestion post surgery, there is a chance you may have a few uncomfortable symptoms. Our team of surgeons are happy to meet with you to decide which procedure would be best for you as well as discuss other treatment options for your individual situation. <\/span><\/p>\n

Digestion Symptoms and Changes<\/b><\/p>\n

During the first few weeks following surgery, we often recommend you eat a low-fat diet while your body adjusts to the changes of no longer having a gallbladder. If you\u2019re unsure on what\u2019s off limits or what you should be eating, <\/span>here\u2019s a helpful article<\/span><\/a> listing various recommended foods. <\/span><\/p>\n

While post-surgery digestive issues are normally uncommon, some people will notice changes such as more frequent bowel movements. Other changes may include:<\/span><\/p>\n