If you need gallbladder surgery due to gallstones, pancreas or gallbladder inflammation, or gallbladder polyps, see the experts at North Tarrant Surgical & Aesthetics in North Fort Worth, Texas. Nabeel Shabout, MD, and his friendly staff offer gallbladder removal surgery, also known as cholecystectomy, to ease unpleasant symptoms and reduce your risk of worrisome complications. Call the office to schedule an evaluation, or use the online booking tab today.

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What is gallbladder surgery?

Your gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ just below your liver on the right side of your abdomen. It collects and stores bile, a digestive fluid your liver produces. However, your body can function without a gallbladder, and if you develop compilations associated with this organ, your doctor may recommend removing it.

During gallbladder surgery, Dr. Shabout utilizes minimally invasive techniques that use a tiny video camera and specialized surgical tools to remove your gallbladder with minimal risks.

Why is gallbladder surgery performed?

Dr. Shabout may suggest gallbladder surgery if you struggle with:

  • Painful gallstones in your gallbladder or bile duct
  • Large gallbladder polyps
  • Gallbladder inflammation
  • Pancreas inflammation

If you develop abdominal discomfort or sharp pain, see Dr. Shabout for an evaluation. He offers various abdominal and other general surgeries and always performs the latest advances in technologies and procedures.

How should I prepare for gallbladder surgery?

To get ready for your surgery, follow Dr. Shabout’s instructions. You might need to avoid taking certain medicines and not eat or drink anything on the morning of surgery. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

What happens during the procedure?

Before gallbladder surgery, you receive general anesthesia to help you fall asleep and avoid discomfort.

Once you’re asleep, Dr. Shabout makes small incisions and uses robotic arms or a tiny tube with a camera to view your gallbladder and remove it through one of the incisions. You might need an imaging procedure that allows him to get an in-depth view of the surgical area and ensure optimal precision and accuracy. Dr. Shabout then closes the incisions.

The procedure typically lasts about 1 hour, but every patient is different.

What should I expect after gallbladder surgery?

You most likely will be able to go home the same day after gallbladder surgery, but sometimes you require a stay in the surgery center. Have a family member or friend drive you home afterward.

Recovery after gallbladder surgery often takes at least a week. There will be some restrictions on activities for 2-3 weeks. You can then expect less pain and a low risk of painful gallstones returning. You may have an occasional loose stool after gallstone surgery, but this usually resolves over time. Follow Dr. Shabout’s instructions regarding when to return to work and participate in physical activity.

To find out if you need gallbladder surgery, schedule an appointment at North Tarrant Surgical & Aesthetics by phone or online today.