How Long Does It Take to Recover from Gallbladder Surgery

How long does it take to recover from gallbladder removal? That may be the first question you ask once you finish a gallbladder removal procedure. Gallbladder surgery is a simple procedure, so it won’t take long for you to recover. However, the recovery time will depend on your condition and how you take care of yourself after the operation.

How Long to Recover from Gallbladder Removal?

The recovery process will vary depending on what type of surgery is performed. If you get laparoscopic surgery, you can leave the hospital a few hours after the procedure. You will be able to get back to normal activities after 10 to 14 days. Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery recovery doesn’t take long because it is usually performed to remove simple cases of gallstones.

However, if you get open surgery, you might need to stay in the hospital for 3 to 5 days, so that the nurse can adequately take care of the wound. After the surgery wound is getting better, you are allowed to go home. But it might need 7 to 8 weeks for you to recover fully.

Possible Side Effects

You need to pay attention to the possible side effects of the surgery. These side effects are mostly normal and cause minimal discomfort. But if the symptoms persist or the pain is unbearable, visit your doctor immediately. The common side effects of gallbladder surgery are:

1. Swollen, painful, and reddened wounds

These symptoms are very normal, especially in the first few days after the surgery. Over-the-counter painkillers can be consumed to reduce pain and discomfort.

2. Nausea

It is mainly caused by anesthesia and will disappear when the effect wears off.

3. Digestive problems

Surgery in the abdomen area will cause many digestive problems, such as tummy pain, diarrhea, and gas. Your doctor will provide a list of food that you can and cannot consume. Stick close to the diet to improve your post-op digestive system.

4. Fatigue

You might constantly feel tired and not yourself after the surgery. But don’t worry because your stamina will be back as you recover.

Doing Activities

Recovery from gallbladder removal in older patients might take longer. It means older patients might take a longer time to be able to do everyday activities. But if you are healthy and have good stamina before the surgery, it won’t take long to come back to your normal life after the surgery.

How long does it take to recover from gallbladder surgery laparoscopic? Patients who have laparoscopy surgery will do normal activities like walking, driving, and eating the regular diet a few days after surgery. However, it is highly recommended to avoid any heavy physical activities. Meanwhile, if you have open gallbladder surgery, you need to take a longer bed rest. It might take around 2 to 3 weeks until you find it comfortable to walk and start eating normal diet.

But the key to a complete recovery is to take everything easy. You can start doing normal activities when you feel that you are ready. Don’t push yourself too hard, and make sure to pay attention to your wounds. The discomfort will disappear after the wound is fully healed.