Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery
Keyhole removal of the gallbladder for gallstones and related disease — performed through a few small incisions, most often as a short-stay procedure.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the removal of the gallbladder using a minimally-invasive 'keyhole' technique. It is the standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones and one of the most commonly performed operations in general surgery. Rather than a single large cut, the operation uses three to four small incisions and a camera, which typically means less pain, smaller scars and a quicker return to normal activity than open surgery.
Dr. Sabir assesses each patient individually — reviewing ultrasound findings, liver function and symptoms — to confirm that surgery is the right step and to plan the safest approach. Where the anatomy is complex or inflammation is severe, the procedure may be converted to an open operation in the interest of safety; this is discussed with every patient beforehand.
Minimally invasive
Small keyhole incisions instead of one large cut, for less pain and smaller scars.
Short-stay where possible
Many patients are able to go home the same day or the next morning.
Faster recovery
Most people resume light daily activity within a week.
Conditions treated
- Gallstones (cholelithiasis)
- Biliary colic (gallstone pain)
- Acute and chronic cholecystitis
- Gallbladder polyps
- Gallstone-related pancreatitis (after stabilisation)
- Empyema or mucocele of the gallbladder
The gallbladder surgery pathway
Recovery after keyhole gallbladder surgery is usually quick. Mild shoulder-tip or tummy discomfort for a day or two is normal. Most patients return to desk-based work within a week and to fuller activity within two to three weeks. Dr. Sabir provides individual after-care advice, including diet guidance and clear instructions on the warning signs to watch for.
- 1
Pre-operative assessment with ultrasound and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis.
- 2
Surgery performed under general anaesthesia through three to four keyhole incisions.
- 3
The gallbladder is carefully separated and removed; a scan of the bile duct may be done if needed.
- 4
Most patients are monitored briefly and discharged the same day or the following morning.
Gallbladder Surgery — your questions answered
Is laparoscopic gallbladder surgery safe?+
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most frequently performed and well-established operations in general surgery. As with any surgery there are risks, which Dr. Sabir explains fully during consultation, but the keyhole approach is associated with less pain and a faster recovery than open surgery.
Do I need my gallbladder removed if I have gallstones?+
Not everyone with gallstones needs surgery. Removal is generally advised when stones cause pain, inflammation or complications. Dr. Sabir will review your symptoms and scans to advise whether surgery is right for you.
How long will I stay in hospital?+
Many patients having planned keyhole gallbladder surgery are able to go home the same day or the next morning. A longer stay may be needed if there is significant inflammation.
Can I eat normally after gallbladder removal?+
Most people return to a normal diet after surgery. Some prefer to limit very fatty meals in the early weeks. Dr. Sabir gives tailored dietary advice at your follow-up.
When can I go back to work?+
Most patients with desk-based jobs return within a week; heavier or physically demanding work may need two to three weeks. Your recovery plan is individualised.
Related surgical services
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Modern repair of inguinal, umbilical and incisional hernias — using keyhole or open mesh techniques chosen to suit each patient.
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Prompt removal of an inflamed appendix — most often by keyhole surgery — for one of the most common surgical emergencies.
Learn moreHepatobiliary Surgery
Surgical management of liver, bile-duct and complex gallbladder disease — an area calling for careful assessment and experienced judgement.
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