North Tarrant Surgical & Aesthetics

Gallbladder SurgeryLaparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Minimally invasive gallbladder removal with same-day discharge for most patients. Expert care for gallstones and gallbladder disease.

Understanding Gallbladder Disease

The gallbladder is a small organ that stores bile produced by the liver. When gallstones form or the gallbladder becomes inflamed, it can cause significant pain and complications that require surgical treatment.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard treatment for symptomatic gallbladder disease, offering excellent outcomes with minimal invasiveness.

Common Symptoms

  • Severe abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty foods
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Bloating and indigestion
  • Fever and chills (if infection is present)

Conditions We Treat

Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)

Hard deposits that form in the gallbladder

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder

Biliary Dyskinesia

Poor gallbladder function without stones

Gallbladder Polyps

Growths on the gallbladder wall

Laparoscopic Approach

Minimally invasive technique for faster recovery and better outcomes

Small Incisions

Four small incisions (5-12mm) instead of one large incision, resulting in less pain and better cosmetic results.

  • • Minimal scarring
  • • Reduced pain
  • • Lower infection risk
  • • Better cosmetic outcome

Same-Day Surgery

Most patients go home the same day as their surgery, allowing recovery in the comfort of their own home.

  • • Outpatient procedure
  • • Home recovery
  • • Lower costs
  • • Reduced hospital exposure

Faster Recovery

Return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks compared to 4-6 weeks with traditional open surgery.

  • • Quick return to work
  • • Earlier physical activity
  • • Less time off needed
  • • Improved quality of life

What to Expect

1

Pre-Surgery

  • Pre-operative evaluation and testing
  • Dietary and medication instructions
  • Anesthesia consultation if needed
  • Questions answered thoroughly
2

Surgery Day

  • Outpatient procedure (30-60 minutes)
  • General anesthesia for comfort
  • Four small laparoscopic incisions
  • Recovery in comfortable setting
3

Recovery

  • Home the same day for most patients
  • Pain management plan provided
  • Follow-up appointments scheduled
  • Return to normal diet gradually

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

Minimal Scarring

Small incisions result in barely visible scars

Less Pain

Significantly reduced post-operative pain

Faster Recovery

Return to normal activities in 1-2 weeks

Same-Day Discharge

Most patients go home the same day

Recovery Timeline

1

First 24 Hours

Rest at home, light liquids, pain medication as needed

2

Days 2-7

Gradual return to normal diet, light activities, follow-up call

3

Week 2

Return to work and normal activities, post-op visit

4

Weeks 3-6

Full recovery, no restrictions, complete healing

Insurance Coverage

Gallbladder surgery is typically covered by most insurance plans as a medically necessary procedure. Our team will verify your benefits and handle pre-authorization when required.

Insurance Accepted

Most major insurance plans

Pre-Authorization

We handle all insurance paperwork

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about gallbladder surgery and recovery. Our team is here to help you make informed decisions about your care.

Gallbladder surgery is typically recommended for gallstones causing symptoms like severe abdominal pain, nausea, or complications such as inflammation (cholecystitis), blockage, or infection. Dr. Shabout will evaluate your specific condition during consultation.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera to remove the gallbladder. This approach results in less pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Most patients return to light activities within a few days and normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Full recovery typically occurs within 4-6 weeks. Many patients go home the same day as their surgery.
Yes, you can live a completely normal life without a gallbladder. The liver continues to produce bile, which flows directly into the small intestine. Some patients may need to make minor dietary adjustments initially.
Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is very safe with low complication rates. Risks include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs, and conversion to open surgery (rare). Dr. Shabout will discuss all risks specific to your case.
Most patients can return to a normal diet gradually. Initially, you may need to avoid very fatty or greasy foods. Our team will provide detailed dietary guidelines for your recovery period.