Gallstones
Gallbladder Removal (Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy)
What is a
Gallstones & Gallbladder Removal
Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder—a small organ under the liver that stores bile. When these stones block the flow of bile, they cause significant pain and can lead to serious complications.
About this procedure
For patients experiencing symptoms, we typically recommend a "Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy." This is a minimally invasive keyhole surgery performed under general anaesthetic to remove the entire gallbladder. In most cases, this involves four small incisions in the abdomen, allowing for a quicker recovery than traditional open surgery.
Recovery timeline
This is usually a day-stay or overnight procedure. Most patients can return to light activities and desk work within 5–7 days. Full physical activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for approximately 2–4 weeks while the internal incisions heal.