What Happens If You Delay Gallbladder Surgery? Risks You Should Know
The gallbladder is a tiny organ that stores bile and helps in fat digestion. Small stones called gallstones can form inside the gallbladder. While not all gallstones cause problems, many patients experience pain, bloating, nausea, or discomfort, especially after eating heavy or fatty meals.
In such cases, doctors often recommend gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy). Today, this is usually done through laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive technique that requires only small cuts, causes less pain, and allows for a faster recovery.
What Happens If You Delay the Surgery?
Delaying gallbladder surgery may seem harmless, especially if the pain is mild or infrequent. However, gallstones rarely go away on their own and can lead to serious complications over time, such as:
- Severe and frequent pain attacks – Gallstone pain can become more intense and unpredictable.
- Infection of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) – This can cause fever, swelling, and severe pain, often requiring emergency surgery.
- Blockage of bile ducts – Stones may block bile flow, leading to jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes).
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) – A potentially life-threatening complication that needs urgent hospital care.
- Emergency surgery with higher risks – Waiting increases the chances of needing unplanned surgery, which is usually more complicated than planned laparoscopic surgery.
Why Timely Surgery Is the Safer Option
Removing the gallbladder at the right time ensures a smoother and safer recovery. With laparoscopic surgery, most patients can return home within a day or two and get back to their normal routine much faster compared to traditional open surgery. It also prevents the risk of sudden, painful emergencies.
What Dr. Mahak Bhandari Will Do
As a specialist in laparoscopic and general surgery, Dr. Mahak Bhandari uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques to remove the gallbladder safely. During the procedure:
- Small keyhole incisions are made instead of one large cut
- A tiny camera is inserted to give a clear, magnified view inside the body
- The gallbladder is carefully removed with precision instruments
- Patients usually return home the same or the next day
- Recovery is smooth, with minimal scarring and a faster return to normal life
Why Timely Surgery Is the Better Choice
Planned surgery with an expert like Dr. Mahak Bhandari ensures safety, fewer complications, and long-term relief. By choosing early treatment, you can avoid emergencies and enjoy a healthier, pain-free life.
