Patient Portal

Stay Updated

Nova Bariatrics & General Surgery

1081 Kinwest Pkwy Ste 110, Irving, TX 75063

Irving, TX 75063

3150 Matlock Rd # 401, Arlington, TX 76015

Arlington, TX 76015

1800 FM195, Paris, TX 75462

Paris, TX 75462

1545 E Southlake Blvd #270, Southlake, TX 76092

Southlake, TX 76092

(469) 639-0953
Book An Appointment

Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)

Why Is The Surgery Performed
Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ present on the right side of the abdomen, just under the liver. Its primary function is to store and release bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, into the small intestine.
Why Is The Surgery Performed

There are several reasons why someone might need a cholecystectomy. The most common reason is the presence of gallstones, which are small, hard stones that can form in the gallbladder. Gallstones can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting and can also block the bile ducts, leading to serious complications. Other reasons for cholecystectomy include:

  • Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis).
  • Cancer of the gallbladder.
  • Certain inherited conditions that increase the risk of gallstones.

What To Expect Before The Procedure

During the gallbladder removal procedure, general anesthesia will be administered through a vein in your arm to ensure that you are unconscious and unaware of the procedure. To assist with breathing, a tube will be inserted down your throat. The cholecystectomy can be performed using a laparoscopic or open surgical approach, depending on your surgeon’s preference.

The Procedures

There are two ways to perform cholecystectomy: laparoscopically or through an open incision.
Minimally Invasive (Laparoscopic) Cholecystectomy
This procedure involves laparoscopic techniques. Several miniature incisions are made in the abdomen, and laparoscopic instruments are inserted through them. General anesthesia is administered to the patient to make them unconscious.

After small incisions are made, a long, thin tube with a light and a camera is inserted through one of them, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the abdomen and manipulate the other instruments. With the help of these laparoscopic instruments, the gallbladder is separated from the liver, bile ducts, and other close organs. Once the gallbladder is set apart, it is removed through one of the incisions.

Traditional (open) cholecystectomy
The first step of this procedure is to clean and prepare the abdomen for surgery. Now the surgeon will make a large incision in the patient’s abdomen, usually in the right upper quadrant or just below the ribcage. The next step is separating the muscle layers and skin to uncover the gallbladder and nearby structures. The gallbladder is dissected from the liver and other closeby structures. Once the gallbladder has been fully dissected, the surgeon will remove it from the patient’s body through the incision. Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures or staples. The patient will be moved to a recovery room to wake up from the anesthesia.

It is important to note that traditional (open) cholecystectomy is typically performed only when other, less invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, are not possible or unsuitable for the patient.

How To Prepare For Gallbladder Surgery?

For gallbladder surgery at Nova Bariatrics we hand out a proper preparatory plan for our patients to ensure a successful procedure and smooth recovery. Eating for 4 hours and drinking clear liquids for 2 hours till surgery is not allowed. Additionally, we never suggest anyone compromise on hygiene. Showering prior to the surgery is a good option. Do so by using a mild antibacterial soap and paying close attention to your groin and abdomen; however, steer clear of shaving the surgical site.

Our experts suggest wearing loose-fitting and comfortable clothes on the day of surgery with no valuables or jewelry. Usually, we allow patients to go home the same day after some laparoscopic procedures. However, for open removals or any post-anesthesia issues, we keep an overnight stay as an option.

We strongly recommend making arrangements for someone to stay with you for at least the first night after surgery. This ensures your safety post-procedure, as the effects of anesthesia can take up to 2 days to wear off. Adequate resting is non-negotiable, but a gradual increase in activity and proper wound care are necessary for successful recovery.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From Gallbladder Surgery?
You can expect to recover from gallbladder performed by us in typically 1 to 2 weeks for the laparoscopic route, while you need to spare 6 to 8 weeks for open surgery. Hospital stays differ for both types of procedures. While you can leave the same day after a laparoscopic procedure, staying with us for 3 to 5 days of exclusive care is needed after open surgery.
Laparoscopic Approach V/S Traditional Open Approach
Laparoscopic Approach V/S Traditional Open Approach
The laparoscopic approach has several benefits compared to the traditional open approach. It is less invasive, meaning the patient experiences less pain and has a shorter recovery time. It also results in smaller scars and a lower risk of infection. However, not all patients are candidates for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and the surgeon will determine the best approach for each patient based on their circumstances.
After the procedure
After a cholecystectomy, most people can return to their normal activities within a few weeks. It is important to follow the post-surgery instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery.

Visit Nova Bariatrics

If you are experiencing gallbladder issues, a cholecystectomy performed by Dr. Alibhai at Nova Bariatrics may be the solution you need. Dr. Alibhai is skilled in performing this surgery with precision and care, providing relief from gallbladder problems. Consider reaching out to Nova Bariatrics for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why might I need my gallbladder removed?

Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) is recommended for patients with gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, or related pain and digestive symptoms. The gallbladder isn’t essential, and most people digest food normally after removal. Dr. Alibhai performs minimally invasive gallbladder removal in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.

How is gallbladder removal surgery performed?

At Nova Bariatrics, gallbladder removal is performed laparoscopically through several small incisions, which reduces pain and speeds recovery compared to open surgery. Most patients go home the same day or after a short stay and return to normal activity within a week or two.

Can I eat normally after gallbladder removal?

Yes — most people eat normally after gallbladder removal, though some adjust to a lower-fat diet temporarily as the body adapts. Digestion continues normally because bile flows directly from the liver to the intestine. Dr. Alibhai’s team provides dietary guidance during recovery.

Skip to content