Gallbladder removal, medically known as cholecystectomy, is one of the most common abdominal operations. It is usually recommended when gallstones or gallbladder disease cause repeated pain, inflammation, infection, or other complications.

Many people live completely normal lives without a gallbladder. However, digestion does change after  surgery, and a minority of patients experience persistent digestive symptoms.

Claims that everyone should “avoid gallbladder surgery whenever possible” can be misleading. In some situations, delaying necessary surgery can lead to serious complications. The decision should always be based on an individual medical assessment.

What Does the Gallbladder Actually Do?