When patients are diagnosed with gallstones or gallbladder disease, one of the most common questions about gallbladder surgery we hear is “Will I need surgery?”
For many people experiencing ongoing or recurring symptoms, laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is the recommended primary treatment.
Patients often arrive at their consultation with similar questions about what the procedure involves, recovery time and what life will be like afterwards.
Dr Harald Puhalla, bariatric and general surgeon on the Gold Coast, regularly discusses these questions with patients referred for gallbladder assessment. Here are some of the most common questions people ask him when discussing gallbladder surgery.
What is a Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
A cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder.
Laparoscopic surgery is the method and more commonly known as keyhole surgery. Instead of a large incision that is used in traditional surgery, laparoscopic surgery is performed using several small incisions. A camera and specialised instruments are inserted through these small openings in the abdomen, allowing Dr Puhalla to remove the gallbladder while viewing the procedure on a screen.
Because this approach uses smaller incisions, many patients experience less post-operative discomfort and return to usual activities sooner compared with open surgery.
Do I need Gallbladder Surgery?
Gallbladder removal is usually recommended when gallstones cause symptoms or complications that frequently affect you. Symptoms may include:
- Repeated abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain after fatty meals
- Episodes of gallbladder inflammation
- Gallbladder polyps increasing in size
When gallstones repeatedly block the bile ducts, they can lead to pain known as biliary colic or trigger more serious complications such as infection or pancreatitis. In these situations, removing the gallbladder may help reduce further episodes and ongoing symptoms.
How long does the surgery take?
A laparoscopic cholecystectomy typically takes less than one hour, although the exact duration depends on the individual case and surgical findings.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, meaning patients are asleep during the operation.
In more complex situations, like if the gallbladder is very inflamed or difficult to access, Dr Harald Puhalla may need to convert to an open procedure. This does involve a larger incision, although this only occurs very occasionally.
How long does recovery take?
One of the advantages of laparoscopic surgery is the potential for a quicker recovery when compared with traditional open surgery.
Many patients can go home the same day or after an overnight stay in hospital, depending on their individual recovery and medical history. Most people are also able to return to light activities within a week, though full recovery can take several weeks.
Recovery timelines vary between individuals, and Dr Puhalla will provide you with guidance tailored to your circumstances.
Will my digestion change after the surgery?
A common concern is how digestion works after the gallbladder is removed.
The gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver and releases it during digestion. Without it, bile flows directly into the small intestine.
Most people adapt well to this change, although some may notice temporary digestive symptoms such as loose stools or sensitivity to fatty foods during the early recovery period. Gradually reintroducing foods and maintaining a balanced diet will support your digestive system as it adjusts.
What are the risks of Gallbladder Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, gallbladder removal surgery carries potential risks. These can include infection, bleeding or injury to nearby structures. Overall complications are uncommon.
For many patients experiencing ongoing symptoms, the potential benefits of surgery also need to be weighed against these risks.
Dr Harald Puhalla will discuss all of this in detail during your consultation, explain how they relate to your individual circumstances and answer any questions you may have so you can make an informed choice about your treatment.
Is Gallbladder Surgery right for me?
Not everyone with gallstones requires surgery. Some people have gallstones that never cause symptoms.
The decision to proceed with surgery usually depends on:
- The frequency and severity of your symptoms
- Imaging results
- Your overall health and medical history
- The presence of complications
At your consultation, Dr Puhalla will carefully review your situation and work with you to determine the management approach that best suits your individual needs.
Can I choose my surgeon?
Yes, you can request your referral to a specialist or surgeon of your choice, provided they are qualified and your GP agrees that specialist review or surgery is appropriate for you.
Dr Harald Puhalla is a Gold Coast-based general surgeon with extensive experience in gastrointestinal and gallbladder surgery.
Patients from across South East Queensland and Northern NSW are frequently referred to him for consultation for gallstones, abdominal pain and other gallbladder-related concerns.
During an appointment, Dr Puhalla will review your symptoms, imaging results and medical history and take the time to answer your questions and discuss your possible treatment options.
References:
Mayo Clinic. (2024). Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cholecystectomy/about/pac-20384818
Cochrane Collaboration. (n.d.). Early versus delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy for uncomplicated biliary colic. https://www.cochrane.org/evidence/CD007196_LIVER_early-versus-delayed-laparoscopic-cholecystectomy-for-uncomplicated-biliary-colic
Husted, H., & et al. (2012). A systematic review and meta‑analysis of the outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared to open procedure in patients with gallbladder disease. PMC, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11057899/
Dr Harald Puhalla (MED0000976858) MD FRACS is a Specialist Bariatric and General Surgeon. This article provides general information only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. All surgery carries risks and individual results may vary. Healthcare decisions should always be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional.
