Life after gallbladder surgery: What to expect

Gallbladder surgery, or cholecystectomy, is commonly performed to treat gallstones or other gallbladder issues. After this surgery, most people experience relief from symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and indigestion. However, adapting to life without a gallbladder involves understanding changes in digestion and making some dietary adjustments.

Recovery after surgery

The type of recovery experience can vary depending on whether the surgery was done laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) or through an open procedure:

• Laparoscopic surgery: Recovery tends to be faster, with most people resuming normal activities within a week or two.
• Open surgery: Recovery time is longer, typically requiring several weeks before a return to full activities.

Common short-term effects may include mild discomfort or bloating as your body adjusts, fatigue, and occasionally some shoulder pain due to the gas used during laparoscopic surgery.

Changes in digestion after gallbladder removal

Bile, a digestive fluid made in the liver, is found in the gallbladder. After it’s removed, bile directly travels from the liver to the small intestine. While the body adapts to this change, some digestive symptoms may appear:

• Frequent bowel movements: Some people may experience softer, more frequent bowel movements, particularly in the weeks following surgery.
• Diarrhoea: For some, bile acid diarrhoea may occur due to the continuous flow of bile into the digestive system. It’s generally temporary and can improve over time.
• Indigestion and bloating: Without the gallbladder’s bile storage function, fatty or greasy foods can be harder to digest initially, causing indigestion or bloating.

Do I need to make dietary adjustments after gallbladder surgery?

While there isn’t a strict diet to follow, making gradual adjustments can help manage any digestive discomfort:

• Low-fat meals: Initially, focus on low-fat foods, as fat is harder to digest without a gallbladder. This can help prevent diarrhoea and discomfort.
• Small, frequent meals: Eating smaller meals more frequently can ease digestion and reduce symptoms.
• Avoiding high-fibre foods initially: Foods high in fibre, like beans, broccoli and whole grains, may cause gas and bloating initially. Gradually reintroduce these foods as your digestion improves.
• Limit foods that can cause gas or discomfort: Greasy, fried or heavily spiced foods can sometimes trigger symptoms. Experimenting with different foods to find what works best for you is helpful.

Long-term outlook and lifestyle changes

For most people, digestion returns to normal within a few months, and the body adapts well to the absence of the gallbladder. Long-term lifestyle changes may include continuing to eat a balanced diet with moderate fat intake, managing stress, and staying active.

When should I seek help after gallbladder surgery?

While most people have a smooth recovery, consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent diarrhoea or severe digestive issues beyond the initial weeks;
• Persistent pain, bloating or nausea;
• Any signs of infection, such as fever or redness around the surgical area.

By following dietary guidelines and understanding the changes to expect, most individuals find they can live comfortably without a gallbladder, with minimal impact on their quality of life.