Gallbladder Removal After Bariatric Surgery: Expert Advice You Need

Written by Heather Smith, B.S. and medically reviewed by Dr. Stephen Boyce, MD

Key Takeaways

  • Rapid weight loss and other changes after bariatric surgery may increase your risk for gallbladder issues.
  • Having abdominal pain that radiates to your back and nausea may be a sign that you are developing gallbladder problems. 
  • Losing weight gradually and taking certain medications may reduce your risk of developing gallbladder problems after bariatric surgery.

Gallbladder removal surgery, known as cholecystectomy, is one of the most common procedures people have after bariatric surgery.

Your gallbladder is a small sac-like organ that sits right under your liver. It’s responsible for holding the bile acids that your liver produces. The gallbladder then secretes the bile during digestion. 

However, changes to your gut microbiome or bile after weight-loss surgery may stir up some trouble for your gallbladder. Late complications of bariatric surgery, such as gallbladder issues, are not uncommon and can require medical attention.

In this article, we take a look at why gallbladder issues happen after bariatric surgery, how to adjust your diet, what you can expect after surgery, and how you can support gallbladder health after bariatric surgery.

Understanding Gallbladder Removal in Bariatric Surgery

For many people, life after bariatric surgery often includes having their gallbladder removed. 

Rapid weight loss, one of the main goals of bariatric surgery, can sometimes lead to forming gallstones. These stones can block the release of bile from the gallbladder and cause pain and discomfort. 

Studies show that up to 40% of people develop gallstones within six months of having weight loss surgery. 

Experts also believe that changes in the composition of the gut microbiome and the bile salts after bariatric surgery may also play a role in the development of gallstones.

Some surgeons take a proactive approach and remove the gallbladder while performing bariatric surgery if gallstones are already present. Others take a “wait and see” strategy and let the patient heal from bariatric surgery and address the gallbladder if problems arise later.

Signs and Symptoms of Gallbladder Problems Post-Surgery

Gallbladder problems can sneak up on you after bariatric surgery. Knowing the warning signs can help you address issues quicker and get prompt treatment.

Warning signs of possible gallbladder problems include:

  • Abdominal pain: Severe pain in your upper right abdomen, which may radiate to your right shoulder or back, is a classic sign. You may feel the pain start after eating a fatty meal, or it may start suddenly.
  • Digestive discomfort: Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and boating may indicate issues with your gallbladder.
  • Fever: Having a fever, even if it’s low grade or chills, is a warning sign of possible gallbladder problems. 
  • Jaundice: If your skin or the whites of your eyes have a yellowish tint, this could signal a more serious condition, such as a blocked bile duct or gallbladder infection.

If you are experiencing several or all of these symptoms, it’s best not to wait. Leaving gallbladder problems untreated can lead to more serious conditions.

To diagnose gallbladder stones, your healthcare provider may order several imaging tests to see the severity of the stones and if they are causing a blockage.

How Gallbladder Removal Affects Life After Bariatric Surgery

Life after gallbladder removal includes several adjustments. However, the changes are typically manageable with a little preparation. 

One of the biggest changes you’ll need to make is dietary. Without a gallbladder, your body has a harder time digesting fats. Many people find that sticking to a low-fat diet helps decrease digestive issues. Incorporating bariatric vitamins and bariatric multivitamins can support your overall health during these changes.

You may notice some changes in your bowel movements right after surgery. Many people have more frequent and looser stools. The good news is that this change is typically temporary.

While your gallbladder doesn’t play a direct role in weight management, having it removed can cause subtle changes. You may need to make other fine-tuned adjustments to maintain a good balance. Working with a registered dietitian can help you make personalized changes, including adding bariatric protein shakes and bariatric snacks to your diet.

How Gallbladder Removal Impacts Recovery and Digestion

Recovering from gallbladder surgery is typically a smooth process. Surgeons are typically able to remove the gallbladder laparoscopically, meaning they only need to make several small incisions. 

Most people are up and moving around within a day or two after surgery. Your surgeon may give some limitations, but you most likely will be able to get back to mostly normal activities within a couple of weeks. Adding a liquid bariatric vitamin or bariatric calcium chews may help support your nutrient absorption.

However, your digestive system needs to make some long-term adjustments. Without a gallbladder, bile flows directly into your small intestines, which can alter how fats are digested and absorbed. 

This change often causes the need to reduce your fat intake to avoid digestive discomfort. Including bariatric protein bars and bariatric probiotics in your diet can help balance your digestion.

While most people adjust well, a small number may experience lingering digestive issues, such as chronic diarrhea. Working with a doctor and taking a fiber supplement or medication may help ease those side effects.

bariatric surgery gallbladder removal

Preventing Gallbladder Issues After Bariatric Surgery

To prevent gallbladder issues, support your digestion. Take proactive steps. 

One key strategy is to make it a goal to lose weight gradually and steadily rather than having a rapid drop on the scale. Losing weight slowly can greatly reduce your risk of gallstones. 

If you are at high risk for gallstones, your provider may prescribe ursodeoxycholic acid. This medication can help prevent gallstones. It improves bile composition. 

The foods you eat all play a crucial role in your gallbladder health. Eating a diet that includes plenty of fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats is best. These foods aid digestion and lower gallstone risk.

Avoid highly processed foods, fried foods, and desserts. Staying hydrated helps keep your system running smoothly.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Gallbladder Problems

If you start to experience unrelenting pain in your abdomen that lasts for more than a few hours, this is a red flag. You’ll want to let your medical provider know right away.

Persistent digestive issues, like nausea, vomiting, or changes in your bowel habits, are also symptoms you need to report.

If your pain or digestive discomforts are accompanied by symptoms like fever, chills, jaundice, dark urine, or pale stools, you need immediate medical attention. These are symptoms of a severe problem that require medical treatment right away.

Conclusion

Gallbladder issues are a common hurdle for many people after bariatric surgery. Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you seek appropriate medical treatment right away. 

While there are some adjustments that need to be made after your gallbladder is removed, these changes are typically manageable.

It’s important to eat a diet high in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support healthy digestion. Avoid fried, greasy, and high-sugar foods, which can increase the risk of developing gallstones. Also, make it a goal to lose weight gradually rather than having dramatic drops in weight.

Are gallbladder issues common after bariatric surgery?

With the right approach, you can support your gallbladder health and manage concerns after bariatric surgery.

If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below: 

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