A cholecystectomy is a specialized surgical procedure that involves removing the gallbladder—a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver that stores bile for digestion. At our practice, we understand that abdominal surgery can create anxiety and concerns. That's why we're committed to providing gentle, expert care while helping you understand each step of your treatment. This focused procedure effectively treats conditions such as gallstones, cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation), biliary dyskinesia, and gallbladder polyps that cause recurring pain and digestive issues. Our cholecystectomy approach utilizes advanced laparoscopic techniques with strategically placed tiny incisions that minimize tissue disruption. We employ specialized imaging during surgery to clearly identify bile duct anatomy, significantly reducing complication risks while ensuring complete removal of the diseased gallbladder and a swift return to normal digestive function.
You may need a cholecystectomy if you experience:
Recurring pain in the upper right or middle abdomen (biliary colic)
Pain that radiates to your right shoulder or back
Nausea and vomiting, particularly after fatty meals
Confirmed gallstones on imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, or MRCP)
Acute cholecystitis (inflamed gallbladder) diagnosed by your doctor
Gallbladder polyps larger than 1 cm
Pancreatitis caused by gallstones
Biliary dyskinesia (poor gallbladder function) confirmed by HIDA scan
Porcelain gallbladder (calcified gallbladder wall)
Chronic cholecystitis with recurrent symptoms
Inability to tolerate fatty foods without discomfort
Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes) related to gallbladder disease
At Lifetime Surgical, our approach to cholecystectomy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure typically begins with a comprehensive pre-operative assessment before surgery, including using advanced imaging to clearly map your biliary anatomy. Our surgeon's expertise in laparoscopic techniques involves making four small incisions (typically 5-10mm), strategically placed to minimize discomfort and optimize cosmetic results. We employ intraoperative cholangiography when indicated—a specialized X-ray technique that provides real-time visualization of the bile duct system during surgery—to ensure the preservation of these critical structures. Our distinctive approach includes meticulous dissection of the critical view of safety before dividing any structures, significantly reducing the risk of bile duct injury. For complex cases involving severe inflammation or scarring, we offer specialized techniques such as "top-down" dissection or subtotal cholecystectomy when appropriate, always prioritizing safety while maintaining our commitment to minimally invasive approaches whenever possible. In rare cases requiring conversion to open surgery, we utilize muscle-splitting techniques that promote faster healing.
Immediate Post-Procedure (1-3 days)
Expect some shoulder pain from residual CO2 gas used during laparoscopy
Take prescribed pain medication as directed, typically transitioning to over-the-counter options within days
Begin with clear liquids, advancing to a regular diet as tolerated
Walk several times daily to promote circulation and reduce gas pain
Keep incisions clean and dry for 48 hours, after which showering is permitted
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for the first week
Apply ice to incision sites to reduce swelling (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
Monitor for fever, increasing abdominal pain, or bile-colored drainage
Use prescribed anti-nausea medication if needed
Expect some bruising around incision sites, which is normal
Short-Term Recovery (1-2 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment (typically 7-10 days after surgery)
Continue walking daily, gradually increasing distance as comfort allows
Resume driving once off narcotic pain medication and able to brake suddenly without pain (typically 3-5 days)
Return to work based on your surgeon's recommendation and job requirements (typically 5-7 days for desk jobs)
Begin incorporating more fatty foods gradually to assess tolerance
Avoid heavy lifting (over 15 pounds) for two weeks
Small incision sites will heal externally within 7-10 days
Expect digestive adjustments as your body adapts to functioning without a gallbladder
Use supportive pillows when coughing or laughing to reduce incisional discomfort
Most patients report significant improvement in pre-operative symptoms
Long-Term Expectations
Complete internal healing occurs within 4-6 weeks
Minimally visible incision lines typically fade significantly within 6-12 months
Most patients can return to all normal activities, including exercise, after 2-3 weeks
Permanent relief from gallstone-related pain for the vast majority of patients
Some patients (10-15%) may experience loose stools or digestive changes that typically improve over time
Bile-lowering medications may be recommended for those with persistent digestive symptoms
No long-term dietary restrictions are necessary for most patients
No impact on liver function or digestive enzyme production
Annual check-ups help ensure continued digestive health
Life without gallbladder pain allows the return to normal activities and an improved quality of life
Common Side Effects
Temporary pain at the incision sites, particularly at the umbilicus
Mild bruising or swelling around the small incisions
Discreet healing marks that typically fade over time
Shoulder pain from CO2 gas used during laparoscopy
Temporary bloating or digestive adjustment
Mild diarrhea or looser stools in some patients
Residual abdominal discomfort that resolves within days
Less Common Complications
Surgical site infection (occurring in less than 2% of cases)
Bile leak from the liver bed or cystic duct stump
Retained common bile duct stones requiring additional intervention
Injury to surrounding structures (bile ducts, liver, intestine)
Bleeding requiring intervention (extremely rare)
Persistent diarrhea or digestive issues (bile salt malabsorption)
Conversion to open procedure (5-10% of cases, usually due to severe inflammation)
Post-cholecystectomy syndrome (persistent symptoms without gallbladder disease)
Hernia at incision site (more common with open surgery)
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Severe, worsening abdominal pain
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Inability to tolerate liquids
Drainage of bile (green-yellow fluid) from any incision
Significant redness, warmth, or swelling at incision sites
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Severe diarrhea or constipation
Dark urine or light-colored stools
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
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All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
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At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
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Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.