background-mobile

Gallbladder Removal - Diagnosis & Treatment

Gallbladder removal, also known as cholecystectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, a small organ that stores bile. Bile aids digestion by breaking down fats.

from £270

Consultation Price

No Referrals Required

You are not required to provide a referral letter from your doctor or GP.

At your Convenience

Start a visit quickly and discreetly whenever works best for you.

Personalised Treatment Plan

Our doctors review symptoms, prescribe treatments if needed.

Without Commitments

Proceed with your healthcare journey as you wish. You're in control.

Secure Health Records

You control medical records, access anytime.

How to Prepare for Gallbladder Surgery

Preparing for gallbladder removal surgery does not have to be complicated. Here is a simple rundown to get you ready:

1. Doctor's Visit

First, schedule a consultation with one of our London doctors. They will go over your medical history, the medications you're currently on, and any allergies you might have. They will also discuss with you the details of the surgery, possible complications and what to expect.

image0

2. Tests

Your doctor might ask you to undergo some tests, like blood tests or imaging scans. These help ensure you are in good shape for the surgery and give the surgeon a better look at your gallbladder before planning your operation.

image1

3. Medication Guidelines

If you are on medication, your doctor will tell you if you need to stop taking it before the surgery. They will give you clear instructions on which medications to take and which to avoid.

image2

4. Fasting

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and you will therefore need to fast, meaning no eating or drinking for a specific number of hours before the surgery. This is standard practice to avoid any complications during the procedure.

image3

5. What to Bring

Pack a small bag with essentials like your ID and personal items in case you need to stay overnight.

image4

6. Transportation

Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home post-surgery. You’ll be groggy from the anaesthesia, so driving yourself is not a safe option.

image5

7. Relax

It's natural to feel nervous but try to relax. You’re in good hands, and this surgery is a common, safe procedure to get you back to a pain-free life.

image6
background-mobile

Get In Touch With Us

Сontact us to schedule an appointment or learn more

1790bdd6-76e9-5ffa-9502-99d397472628
Book An Appointment

Conveniently reserve your spot with just a few clicks through our easy-to-use online booking system.

0a81507b-0253-581a-afcf-84a8ab9e41bd
Send Us a Message

Have a question or request? Drop us a message, and our team will get back to you promptly.

6fc18ba6-a36d-5872-9c4a-0cfe3efc8d5d
Give Us a Call

Feel free to give us a call, and our friendly staff will be glad to assist you over the phone.

What to Expect From Gallbladder Surgery

During the Surgery

Arrival

When you arrive at the hospital, the staff will guide you through the admission process. You will change into a hospital gown and get settled in.


The medical team will then prepare you for surgery. The procedure is done under a general anaesthetic so you will be asleep throughout and will not feel a thing.


The Procedure

Depending on each individual case, the surgeon might make one large incision or a few small ones to remove the gallbladder. The procedure last one to two hours.


Once the procedure is finished you will be transferred to the recovery room. You might feel sleepy and disorientated due to the anaesthesia but this will soon settle.

image0

After the Surgery

Recovery Room

You will spend some time in the recovery room while the team monitors your vital signs. They will make sure you are well and that the anaesthesia is wearing off properly.


You might feel some pain or discomfort, but don’t worry—the team has got you covered with pain relief.


Going Home

If you had a laparoscopic procedure, there is a good chance you will be heading home the same day. For an open surgery, expect a short hospital stay.


Once you are home, take it easy. Rest up, follow your doctor's advice on diet and activities, and focus on getting better.

image1

Follow-Up

You will have a follow-up appointment to check on your recovery, remove stitches if needed, and address any concerns.


Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how you feel. Healing takes time, so go easy on yourself and reach out to your doctor if you have any worries or questions.


Remember, every person’s experience is a bit different. So, it’s always best to rely on your doctor’s advice tailored to your specific situation.

image2
background-mobile

Start Your Consultation

From Home or Face to Face, all at your convenience 

Schedule a Video Consultation or a Face-to-Face appointment at your convenience by using our online booking system.

step

Schedule a Video Consultation or a Face-to-Face appointment at your convenience by using our online booking system.

Your dedicated Specialist Doctor will provide you with personalized treatment, tailoring it to your specific needs, and may include necessary medication.

blob1

Alternatives to Cholecystectomy

If gallstones are giving you trouble, gallbladder surgery is a common solution. But it is not the only one. There are other ways to manage and treat gallstones too.


Changing What You Eat

One simple step is watching what you eat. If certain foods trigger your gallstone pain, try to avoid them. Stick to a diet that is low in fat to keep the pain at bay. It can make a big difference.


ERCP

If gallstones have made their way into your bile duct, ERCP might be required. It is a special procedure that combines the use of an endoscope and X-rays to identify and extract the gallstones from your bile duct, not the gallbladder though. Your doctor guides a flexible tube through the mouth and stomach, all the way to the bile duct opening in the gut where with special instruments they may be extracted.

section image

If gallstones are giving you trouble, gallbladder surgery is a common solution. But it is not the only one. There are other ways to manage and treat gallstones too.


Changing What You Eat

One simple step is watching what you eat. If certain foods trigger your gallstone pain, try to avoid them. Stick to a diet that is low in fat to keep the pain at bay. It can make a big difference.


ERCP

If gallstones have made their way into your bile duct, ERCP might be required. It is a special procedure that combines the use of an endoscope and X-rays to identify and extract the gallstones from your bile duct, not the gallbladder though. Your doctor guides a flexible tube through the mouth and stomach, all the way to the bile duct opening in the gut where with special instruments they may be extracted.

doctor's image mobile

Considering Future Steps

Even after these procedures, keep in mind that your gallbladder might still need to come out. Why? Because it might be housing more gallstones. 


Remember, each patient is unique and so are their needs. Always chat with one of our doctors to figure out the best approach for you. We are here to guide you through, step-by-step, making sure you get the care that fits just right.

background-mobile
logo

This website is provided as a service to help

inform current and future patients of our leading

consultant panel and the latest treatments

available.

Address

LIPS Healthcare

Battersea Power Station

Turbine Hall B, Level 1

London, SW11 8DD

Registered in England and Wales.

LIPS is the UK’s largest multispecialty

private group of leading NHS teaching hospital

consultants.

Based in London, United Kingdom

Pharmacy:

Mon - Sat: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Sun: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM