Gallbladder Surgery

Keyhole gallbladder removal is one of the most commonly performed operations in Australia, usually done as a day procedure or single overnight stay, with most patients back to normal activities within around two weeks. All surgery carries risk, which your surgeon will discuss openly, but for most patients it is a routine procedure with a quick recovery.

For most patients with adequate private health insurance, out of pocket costs are up to $500, with Medicare rebates contributing to surgeon and anaesthetist fees and your fund covering hospital costs according to your level of cover and excess. Self pay options are available. Contact us for a full written estimate after your consultation.

Yes. After removal, bile flows directly from the liver into the bowel and digestion continues normally. Most patients eat a completely normal diet, and any early looseness of the bowels or discomfort after fatty meals usually settles within weeks to months.

No. Gallstones that cause no symptoms are often simply left alone. Surgery is the gold standard treatment once gallstones become symptomatic, because attacks tend to recur and can progress to complications such as infection of the gallbladder.

Usually a day procedure or one night in hospital, light activities within a few days, and normal activities including most work within around two weeks. Emergency surgery for an inflamed gallbladder takes longer to recover from, which is a good reason not to delay planned surgery.

Not privately. With private health insurance your operation can usually be performed within a week or two, or planned at a time of your choosing. Public hospital waiting lists may be very long, with no choice of surgeon.

Attacks tend to recur, and a stone stuck in the outlet of the gallbladder can cause acute cholecystitis, a painful inflammation that can progress to infection and even gangrene of the gallbladder. Emergency surgery is then usually required, and keyhole surgery may not be possible. Planned surgery avoids that path.