Upcoming Gallbladder Surgery

I had mine removed a little less then 4 years ago and for me it was no big deal. I was still recovering from a c-section so I didn't really notice much of the pain. They told me to lay off the greasy/high fat foods for a while but other then that, there wasn't anything major in the recovery process. I went home the same day since I had a little one at home but most people only stay in the hospital over night just to make sure there aren't any problems. Most other people that I have known who have had this surgery have felt so much better afterward that they didn't notice much of the side affects of the surgery. It really isn't all that bad.

Hi B.. My sister had her gall bladder taken out lap. a few years ago. She did fine, but was definitely sore. One recommendation. Take a stool softner for several days after surgery. Pain medications are constipating and the last thing you want to do is strain having a BM. My sister was in a lot of pain from not being able to go easily. Senokot is a good one. Good luck and God bless!

Hi B.,

I do understand your concern. If they are able to take your gallbladder out by laparoscopy, you will be fine in several days. I was also very concerned about the laparoscopy before the procedure, and after that I felt so much better and relieved. I had the procedure D. last February, I had 4 incisions in my abdomen, one of them in the belly button. They bothered me a little bit for 4 days, but mostly the one located in the belly buton, but after one week I felt very well, and after 2 weeks I resumed all my activities. The problems that bothered me mostly were the discomfort in my shoulders and upper back, not because the gas (the gas that doctors put inside the abdomen to work better) but my position to avoid feeling discomfort in my belly button! After the laparoscopy, I started eating gradually, and light meals, lots of water, and no sugary things or fatty meals) The first week my stools were VERY loose (I had to run to the bath) especially after my breakfast, but with the passing of days, it got better, and I may be a little constipated now, but I just try to eat more fiber, vegetables and fruits, and drink more water. The rest is absolutely normal for me. If you have your gallbladder removed by a different kind of surgery, like an open surgery is going to take more time to recover than a laparoscopy because is a regular surgery, and takes more time to heal. Your doctor should let you know what precautions you should take for the drainage tube you already have. I would suggest you that you ask him why he does not know yet if he is going to do a laparoscopy or another kind of surgery to remove your gallbladder. Ask him.
You will be fine, I was as nervous as you before having the procedure...Just take care, don't eat heavy, and remember you will need someone to help you with your little girl, at least the first 2 weeks.
Good luck!
Alejandra

Hi B.,

I had my gallbladder out when I was 17. That was ten years ago but I am sure the procedure hasn't changed. It truly wasn't that bad. Infact, I went back to school the following Monday. I had it on a Friday. I was tender but that's all. It felt like I had done a ton of crunches.

As for bathroom issues. If you eat really greasy stuff it will go RIGHT through you. This will stop once your body gets use to not having the filter (gallbladder). I think mine was back to normal around 6 months to a year.

I did put on some weight after the surgery again your body getting use to not having the gall bladder. It came off as well once I adapted.

I hope this helps you! Good luck! Things will be fine!!!

My best,
M.