What happens when the gallbladder is removed? Physician Dr Kunal Sood explainsUpdated on: Aug 14, 2026, 14:45:40 IST

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Gallbladder removal leads to short term side effects, which the body can adjust to over time, with the help of the right lifestyle changes, shares Dr Sood. 

It is possible to live without the gallbladder, but it is definitely not easy, especially in the initial days. The organ does not often receive much importance until it becomes a cause of health concern.

Taking to Instagram on August 14, Dr Kunal Sood, a Maryland-based physician in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine, explained how the organ functions, why it needs to be removed in some people, and what happens in the aftermath.

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located in the upper right part of the abdomen, directly beneath the liver. Dr Sood shared that the function of the organ is to store bile that is secreted by the liver, which helps an individual to digest fats.

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When is the gallbladder removed?

The physician noted that if there is a buildup of excess cholesterol or bilirubin in the gallbladder, it can cause inflammation, blockage, and even gallstones.

“And if these issues become too severe, we might recommend removing your gallbladder. This can be done through either an open surgery or a less invasive laparoscopic approach,” stated Dr Sood.

What happens after the gallbladder is removed?

Following a gallbladder removal surgery, the bile is no longer stored anywhere after being produced by the liver and is directly released into the intestines. This can lead to temporary side effects, cautioned Dr Sood.

In his words, “Post surgery, bile will flow directly from your liver to your intestines. This can lead to temporary side effects. Common side effects will include difficulty digesting fats, constipation, or diarrhoea. Thankfully, these are usually short-term, as your body will adjust.”

Precautions to take after gallbladder removal surgery

For weeks after the surgery, eating out can be a nightmare for patients, as they are required to follow a proper diet plan.

“Lifestyle changes like a high-fibre, low-fat diet, regular exercise, and staying hydrated can aid in recovery and digestion,” shared Dr Sood.

“It is important to know you can live a healthy life even without a gallbladder. But if you do have any concerning symptoms, it is better to reach out to your healthcare provider,” he added.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. .com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

Dr Kunal Sood, MD, is a double board-certified physician in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Medicine. He did his residency and fellowship in anesthesiology at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, followed by a one-year fellowship in interventional pain medicine. He later became the Medical Director of the office in Germantown, Maryland.

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