Member Questions

Ask a question

Has anyone ever had their gall bladder removed? I found out that I have gallstones and have to have it removed. I am just wondering if anyone out there has had this done and how long you were out and ...well...does it hurt? :o(”

Asked by Just Elaine on 20th March 2008

Leave answer

Comments so Far...

Hi Elaine-

I can provide you a little insight re: the diet as that is my field. KimmB and Caramelsugarberry are right about the fat issue. You want to limit high fat foods for the first few months to allow your liver to compensate for the gallbladder's absense. Introduce higher fat foods slowly after a couple of months and avoid large, heavy meals. It's best to eat small meals and add some snacks if you don't already. Most people that I have seen go through this surgery do fine afterwards. If you have any questions re: diet feel free to email me privately! :)

Kimm B- I had to laugh at your comment about surgeons being "slippery dudes" - ha! I know what you mean!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Meri on 20th March 2008
I had my gallbladder taken out in 2002, 3 months after I had my 4th child (yeah, not the best timing). I had a few days of discomfort from the 4 small incisions from the laparoscope, but for the most part, I was amazed at how much better I felt. Apparently, I had had several "gall bladder attacks" in the months leading up to the surgery, but I didn't realize that's what they were, I just had a lot of pain. So, if you've been suffering frequently from gall bladder pain, you should feel much better.
As for the dietary concerns, I haven't had any. I did ask the surgeon if I needed to modify my diet and he said that I might notice diarrhea after eating foods with a high fat content, but I don't eat a lot of those foods, so I really haven't noticed a difference in my digestion. Do ask a lot of questions, though, those surgeons are "slippery dudes", it's best to find out what you need to know why you've got them cornered! (that part is my nurse's opinion :)) Good Luck!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Kimm B on 20th March 2008
My mother had her gallstones removed in 2006 and all I can recommend to you is to ask your doctor lots of questions. I don't want to scare you b/c my mother had lots of other problems before she had her surgery and things went okay, but she was in pain before and after. But she did feel much better after. You will have to make a lot of dietary changes after b/c you will no longer have the ability to digest fatty foods.

Be sure to ask your doctor how to make the necessary dietary changes after so you don't have to suffer unnecessarily. Seek the help of a good nutritionist. See if it's covered by your insurance. Mine was.

Good Luck...You'll be fine!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by caramelsugarberry38 on 20th March 2008