The gallbladder stores bile, aiding in fat digestion and maintaining gut health. When gallstones cause severe symptoms or complications like cholecystitis, removal may be necessary.
After removal, fat digestion may become harder, causing indigestion, bloating, and bile reflux. The loss of bile storage also affects gut bacteria balance and may disrupt sleep.
Potential long-term risks include reflux gastritis, colon cancer due to increased bile acids, and bile duct stones from bile stagnation.
A post-surgery diet should focus on easy-to-digest foods like soups and custards, high-quality proteins such as fish and eggs, and whole grains like almonds and walnuts—avoiding fried or processed foods.
Patients are usually discharged within 1–3 days after surgery if recovery is smooth.
Following surgery, maintain a light, balanced diet, avoid alcohol and smoking, and gradually resume normal eating habits within three months for optimal recovery.