Gallbladder surgery/cholecystectomy helps relieve pain, inflammation, and digestive problems caused by gallstones or gallbladder disease. At LoneStar Bariatrics in Arlington, Dr. Carlton performs this minimally invasive procedure to remove the gallbladder and restore comfort, helping you get back to eating and living without constant symptoms.
Eliminate Gallbladder Pain and Recurring Attacks
The gallbladder is a small organ beneath your liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats. Gallstones form when bile hardens into pebble-like deposits, often causing pain, nausea, bloating, or inflammation. Some people have gallstones with no symptoms, while others experience sudden, severe attacks that disrupt daily life.
Gallbladder surgery, also called cholecystectomy, removes the gallbladder to prevent ongoing symptoms and complications. The procedure is commonly performed using minimally invasive techniques, which allow smaller incisions and a faster recovery. After surgery, bile flows directly from the liver into the intestine, and most people digest food normally without long-term issues. It is often recommended when gallstones repeatedly cause pain, infection, or block the bile ducts, and when lifestyle changes or medications no longer help.
5 Convenient Locations
Serving patients throughout North Texas, LoneStar Bariatrics offers five convenient locations to better meet your needs. Our regional presence allows us to provide flexible scheduling, easy access to care, and consistent results-driven treatment close to home.
Arlington | Dallas | Hurst | Plano | Waxahachie
Signs and Symptoms Indicating the Need for Cholecystectomy:
- Persistent pain in the upper right or middle abdomen
- Pain that worsens after eating fatty or greasy foods
- Nausea or vomiting that returns frequently
- Abdominal pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder
- Repeated gallbladder attacks that disrupt daily life
- Bloating, gas, or indigestion that does not improve
- Fever or chills linked to gallbladder inflammation
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or pale-colored stools
- Symptoms that continue despite diet changes or medication
How Does Gallbladder Surgery/Cholecystectomy Work?
Gallbladder surgery removes your gallbladder so bile can flow directly from your liver into your small intestine. During the procedure, Dr. Carlton makes small incisions in your abdomen and uses a tiny camera to see the area. He carefully separates the gallbladder from the liver and bile ducts, then removes it without harming the nearby tissues. Because surgery is performed laparoscopically, you experience less pain, minimal scarring, fewer complications, and a faster recovery, allowing you to return to normal activities sooner.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery:
- Smaller incisions that reduce visible scarring
- Less postoperative pain compared to open surgery
- Lower risk of infection and surgical complications
- Shorter hospital stays, often same-day discharge
- Faster recovery and return to daily activities
- Minimal disruption to surrounding tissues
- Improved precision using a high-definition camera
- Better overall comfort during the healing process
Am I a Candidate for Cholecystectomy in Arlington?
You may be a candidate for cholecystectomy in Arlington if you experience ongoing gallbladder pain, frequent gallstone attacks, inflammation, or digestive symptoms. Surgery is recommended when gallstones cause repeated discomfort, infection, or bile duct blockage. Dr. Carlton always evaluates your health, symptoms, imaging results, and response to non-surgical treatments to determine whether gallbladder removal is the safest option for relieving your symptoms.
Gallbladder Surgery/Cholecystectomy FAQs
What happens if gallstones are left untreated?
Gallstones that cause symptoms often worsen over time. Repeated attacks can lead to inflammation, infection, bile duct blockage, or pancreatitis. These complications can become serious and may require emergency treatment. Gallbladder surgery removes the source of the problem and helps prevent long-term damage.
Can you live normally without a gallbladder?
Yes. Your liver continues to produce bile after surgery. Instead of being stored in the gallbladder, bile flows directly into your small intestine. Most people resume normal digestion and return to their usual diet after recovery, with only minor temporary changes.
Is gallbladder surgery considered major surgery?
Gallbladder removal is common and routinely performed. When done laparoscopically, it is considered minimally invasive. Smaller incisions reduce pain, scarring, and recovery time compared to open surgery, making it easier on your body overall.
How long does recovery usually take?
Many people go home the same day or within 24 hours. Light activity is often possible within a few days. Most patients return to work and normal routines within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on how their bodies heal and the type of work they do.
Why Choose Dr. Carlton?
Dr. Carlton is a board-certified bariatric and general surgeon known for his skill, compassion, and hands-on approach to care. He is deeply involved in every step of your treatment, from your first consultation through recovery, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. Patients value his clear communication and attentive care throughout the surgical process. If you are considering gallbladder surgery/cholecystectomy in Arlington, schedule a consultation with Dr. Chad Carlton to discuss your options and next steps.
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Bariatrics Today
CONTACT US(972) 232-7171
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