Gallbladder removal, also known as a cholecystectomy, is an operation to remove your gallbladder.
The gallbladder is a small organ in the upper right part of your tummy. It stores a fluid called bile that helps digest food.
You can live without a gallbladder and continue to eat a normal, healthy diet after it's been removed.
Your gallbladder may need to be removed if gallstones (stones that form in the gallbladder) are causing problems, such as frequent tummy pain.
You'll usually have to spend a day in hospital when having your gallbladder removed and should be able to go home on the same day.
It can take several weeks to recover after your gallbladder is removed. You'll have some pain and discomfort after the operation, but you should be given painkillers to take for a few days.
Page last reviewed: 3 July 2025
Next review due: 3 July 2028
