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Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

DrGanesh DP 2
Dr Ganesh Ramalingam

Specialist in General Surgery

Procedure

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery In A Nutshell

  • Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, or laparoscopic cholecystectomy,  is used to treat problems of the gallbladder.
  • This form of treatment is usually recommended for treating gallstones and gallbladder infections.
  • Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure with smaller incisions, thereby ensuring a shorter downtime with lowered risk of complication.
  • Through keyhole cholecystectomy, our doctor makes several small incisions in the abdomen and inserts special instruments through these incisions. These instruments allow our doctor to remove the diseased gallbladder entirely.
  • Contrary to most beliefs, most people who undergo surgery to remove their gallbladder do not have any problems with biliary function thereafter and are able to enjoy a normal lifestyle with minimal changes.

Table of Contents

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

What Is Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery?

Gallstones are a common problem for people in Singapore and as a result gallstones removal and gallbladder surgery is a common procedure. Laparoscopic (or keyhole) gallbladder surgery is the removal of your gallbladder. 

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most common type of operation performed to remove the gallbladder. During the procedure, several small incisions are made in the abdomen and a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted through one of these incisions. The laparoscope is used to view the inside of the abdomen and the surgeon uses special instruments to remove the gallbladder through one of the other incisions.

The procedure is also minimally invasive, carries less risks, and reduces the downtime of the patient in the process, thus ensuring shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.

Why Should I Opt For Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery?

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery may be required if you experience pain or other symptoms resulting from gallstones. You may also need to undergo this surgery if your gallbladder is not functioning normally. As compared to traditional methods, keyhole surgery for gallbladder is a minimally invasive procedure with smaller incisions. It involves lower risk of complications and less visible scarring, allowing patients to return to normal activities in a shorter time.

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery Table

What Will Happen If My Gallbladder Is Removed?

The gallbladder is an organ that can be removed without affecting your ability to digest food. After a gallbladder operation or gallstones treatment, you can lead a perfectly normal and healthy life. Most people who undergo surgery to remove their gallbladder do not have any problems with biliary function thereafter. This is because the body is able to cope with losing its additional storage space for bile by filling the bile ducts, which transport bile from the liver to the small intestine. With less space to store bile, bile is constantly being delivered into your intestine.

Am I Suitable For Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery?

Most people are suitable candidates for keyhole gallbladder surgery. However, if you have previously had surgery in your abdomen, bleed a lot or if you have any issue that would make it hard for our doctor to see your gallbladder, an open surgery may work better for you. Our doctor will assess you and decide which type of surgery is more suitable for you.

How Many Incisions Are Needed For Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery?

Typically, a laparoscopic gallbladder surgery requires only four small incisions, each 0.5-1cm in size. At G&L Surgical, we will usually require patients to consult our doctor prior to recommending this procedure. 

One Incision Alternative: Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS)

Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) is a minimally invasive option for gallbladder removal that uses just one incision instead of the typical four used in standard laparoscopic surgery. This single incision is usually made near the belly button, leaving a barely noticeable scar. SILS offers benefits like less post-surgery discomfort, a shorter recovery time, and improved cosmetic results.

Dr. Ganesh is experienced in SILS and recommends a consultation to determine if this technique is the right choice for you. He will guide you through the best options for your specific needs, ensuring you receive the most suitable care with minimal scarring.

What To Expect?

  • Follow instructions about when to stop eating and drinking. (Fasting Timing depends on your surgery timing).
  • Take the drugs our doctor told you to take with small sips of water.
  • Stop all regular medications unless absolutely necessary under a doctor’s supervision. This will lower your risk of bleeding during surgery.
  • Refrain from smoking and alcohol.
  • The operation requires only four small incisions in the abdomen.
  • Your surgeon will advise you on the specific details.
  • If you do not have any problems, and once you are able to drink fluids easily and your pain can be controlled with painkillers, you will be discharged on the day of the procedure or the next day.
  • Schedule a follow up appointment with our doctor within two to three weeks of the procedure.
  • You will likely be able to resume daily activities within a week.

What Will My Diet Be Like After My Gallbladder Is Removed?

For the first few days after your gallbladder is removed, consume a high-fibre, low-fat diet. A healthy meal will consist of small amounts of lean protein e.g. fish, poultry or non-fat dairy as well as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Foods that contain high fibre will help to normalise bowel movements. Avoid fatty food such as fried and oily foods. Eat smaller and more frequent portions. This will help to ease digestion and prevent abdominal discomfort and other side effects.

If you require a gallbladder operation or gallstones treatment in Singapore, we can provide options for you.

What Are The Possible Risks Of A Gallbladder Surgery?

As with all surgeries, a laparoscopic gallbladder surgery comes with its own risks as well. 

Some of these risks include: 

  • Injury to the bile duct leading to an obstruction of the duct or leaking of bile. This requires additional surgeries to resolve.
  • An infection in the surgical wounds due to bacteria. This requires antibiotics treatment, and possible drainage of pus.
  • Possible injury to nearby organs, although this is highly unlikely.

How Much Does Gallbladder Surgery Cost in Singapore?

The surgeon’s fee for a gallbladder surgery in Singapore costs between $6,200 – $9,600 (SF706G/4C).

This cost is before insurance claimables. Your insurance claimables will depend on your personal insurance plan. Do note that the cost above does not include the hospital or consumable fees.

The cost of a gallbladder surgery may vary depending on factors such as the medical facility, the complexity of the procedure and the individual’s medical insurance coverage.

For more information on fees and costs, visit out gallbladder surgery costing page.

Gallbladder Surgeon: Dr Ganesh Ramalingam

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery by Dr Ganesh Ramalingam at G&L Surgical in Singapore is preferred by patients looking for a reduce recovery period. Dr Ganesh strives to prioritise his patients’ recovery and comfort and is experienced in performing advanced laparoscopy gallbladder surgeries in Singapore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Removing the gallbladder is a surgical procedure that is typically performed using laparoscopic surgery, which is a minimally invasive technique. While it is generally considered to be a safe and effective procedure, there are still risks involved, such as bleeding, infection, and reactions to anaesthesia.

Some people may remain symptom-free for a period of time, but symptomatic gallstones can lead to complications such as recurrent biliary colic, gallbladder inflammation (acute cholecystitis), gallstone pancreatitis, bile duct blockage and jaundice. Repeated gallstone attacks may increase the risk of complications, so your doctor can advise whether gallbladder removal is appropriate based on your symptoms and individual circumstances.

Yes. Most mothers are able to continue breastfeeding after surgery. Depending on the anaesthetic medications used, your surgeon may advise discarding expressed breast milk for 8–12 hours after the operation before resuming breastfeeding.

The average age for gallbladder surgery is 45, although the procedure can be safely performed on people of all ages. If you suspect that you may have gallstones or an inflamed gallbladder, consider seeking professional advice on how you can better manage your condition.

In general, patients are able to return to normal daily activity after a few days to a week. However, recovery time will differ depending on the individual, and it may take longer for some people to recover.

If you do not have any complications, are able to drink fluids easily, and your pain can be controlled with painkillers, you will be discharged on the day of the procedure or the next day.

While gallstones are removed during a cholecystectomy, gallstones can recur even when you have had your gallbladder removed. This is caused by an inflammation of the bile duct, also known as primary sclerosing cholangitis. Which can lead to new gallstones despite the absence of a gallbladder.

Maintaining a healthy diet low in fat could be vital in preventing further inflammation in the years ahead.

Why Choose Us For Your Gallbladder Treatments In Singapore?

Dr Ganesh at G & L Surgical Clinic strives to prioritise his patients’ recovery and comfort. Having had adequate experience in performing gallbladder surgeries for numerous patients for many years in Singapore.

Furthermore, the staff at G & L Surgical Clinic have been thoroughly and adequately trained to make your experience a comfortable and hassle-free one. Whether you intend to undergo our gallbladder procedures or other medical services in Singapore, you can rest assured that you will be properly and sufficiently cared for by trained professionals.

Organise a consultation with our surgeons for further assistance on gallbladder treatments in Singapore.