Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder. They are usually made up of cholesterol but can also be made up of other substances, such as bilirubin.
Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the composition of bile. The excess cholesterol can harden into stones if there is too much cholesterol in bile or not enough bile salts.
In addition, if the gallbladder doesn’t empty correctly, this can also cause gallstones to form. Gallstone removal may be recommended if you have pain or other gallbladder problems. There are a variety of factors that can increase your risk of developing gallstones, including obesity, rapid weight loss, certain medical conditions (such as Crohn’s disease), and family history.
Is it Good to Remove Gallstones?
One of the most frequently asked questions about gallstones is whether removing them is even a good idea. Now the answer is; yes; it is generally considered good to remove gallstones.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind before making the decision to do so. First of all, if you have any symptoms associated with your gallstones (such as pain), then removal may be recommended.
Additionally, if the stones are particularly large or cause other complications, removal may also be advised. Of course, ultimately, the decision comes down to you and your doctor – they will be able to assess your individual situation and give you the best advice.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that removal isn’t always necessary – sometimes, simply changing your diet can help reduce the formation of new gallstones or prevent existing ones from causing problems. So definitely discuss all of your options with your doctor before making a decision.
What are the Risks of Gallstone Removal?
Gallstone removal may be a good idea, but as a basic rule of thumb, it is important to always weigh the risks and benefits of any medical procedure before going ahead with it. Generally, gallstone removal is considered safe, but as with any surgery, there are always some risks involved. Here are some of the risks that your doctor will likely discuss with you:
- Injury to the bile duct or surrounding organs: When gallstones are removed, there is always a risk that the surgeon may accidentally injure the bile duct or surrounding organs. This is usually not serious, but it can be life-threatening in rare cases.
- Infection: There is also a risk of infection after gallstone removal surgery. This is usually treated with antibiotics, but in rare cases, it can lead to more serious complications.
- Bleeding: As with any surgery, there is always a risk of bleeding, and gallstone removal is no different. In most cases, this is not serious, but in rare cases, it can be life-threatening.
- Anesthesia complications: There is also a small risk of complications from the anesthesia used during gallstone removal surgery. These complications are usually not serious, but they can be life-threatening in rare cases.
What is the Recovery Time for Gallstone Removal Surgery?
The recovery time for gallstone removal surgery will vary depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed. But it typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks for your body to fully heal.
This type of surgery is typically done laparoscopically, which involves making several small incisions in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical tools. The surgeon will then remove the gallbladder through one of these incisions.
Recovery times are usually shorter with this type of minimally invasive surgery than with traditional open surgery, where a large incision is made in the abdomen. After gallbladder removal surgery, patients will usually stay in the hospital for 3-5 days before being released.
They will be encouraged to move around as soon as possible after surgery to help prevent complications that can occur when the body is idle for too long. After being released from the hospital, patients will need to take it easy at home for the next few weeks as their bodies recover from surgery.
They will likely need to take pain medication and avoid strenuous activity during this time. Most people return to their normal activities after 6-8 weeks, but it is important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard too soon.
Can you Live Without Removing Gallstones?
When it comes to gallstones, there are two main schools of thought – some people believe it is best to remove them as soon as possible, while others believe that you can live with them and simply manage the symptoms.
There is no right or wrong answer here, as it really depends on your individual situation. So, if you are wondering whether it is really possible to live without removing gallstones, the answer is; yes, you can live without removing gallstones.
In fact, many people have gallstones and don’t even know it. The stones typically cause no problems and don’t need to be treated. However, if they do cause symptoms (such as abdominal pain or inflammation), your doctor may recommend surgery to remove them.
It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor about your options so that you can make the best decision for your individual situation. This is particularly important if you are considering not removing your gallstones, as there is always a small risk that they could cause serious problems (such as a blockage in the bile duct) down the line.
Closing Thoughts
Do you suspect that you could be having gallstones but are still unsure whether you should get them removed? We advise that you consult your doctor as soon as possible for a professional opinion.
With your doctor’s guidance, you can make an informed decision about whether gallstone removal surgery is right for you. And, if you do decide to have surgery, be sure to only work with a qualified and experienced surgeon to minimize the risk of complications.
We specialize in minimally invasive gallstone removal surgery, and our experienced surgeons have helped countless patients get rid of their gallstones for good.
If you would like to learn more about our services or book a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. We would be more than happy to answer any of your questions and help you on your journey to gallstone-free living! Call: (65) 8876 9034 or visit us at;
Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre | Dr Benjamin Yip
3 Mt Elizabeth #15-09
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
+65 8876 9034
