Gallstones and Surgery: What You Need to Know

Illustration showing gallstones inside the gallbladder
Illustration showing gallstones inside the gallbladder

If you’ve been diagnosed with gallstones, you’re not alone. Gallstones are a common digestive condition that can cause pain, discomfort, and other serious complications if left untreated. In many cases, surgery is the most effective and long-lasting solution.

Dr Sherif Awad – Consultant Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon provides expert evaluation and advanced surgical options for gallstone treatment, including minimally invasive gallbladder removal.

What Are Gallstones?

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form inside the gallbladder—a small organ under your liver that stores bile. They can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball and may cause symptoms or remain “silent” for years.Common symptoms include:
  • Sudden pain in the upper right abdomen or under the ribs
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Bloating, especially after eating fatty meals
  • Back or shoulder pain
If a gallstone blocks a the gallbladder or bile duct, it can lead to a gallbladder attack, infection, or more serious conditions like pancreatitis

When Is Surgery Needed?

Surgery is often recommended when:

  • You have frequent or severe symptoms
  • Gallstones cause inflammation (cholecystitis)
  • There’s a risk of complications like bile duct blockage or infection
  • You’ve had one or more gallbladder attacks

Even if you aren’t currently experiencing symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery if there’s a high risk of future problems or if you have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes.

If you’re struggling with gallstones, learn more about our gallbladder surgery in Dubai with Dr Sherif Awad.

Gallstone Surgery: What to Expect

The standard surgical treatment for gallstones is cholecystectomy, or removal of the gallbladder. The good news? You don’t need a gallbladder to live a healthy life. Once removed, bile flows directly from your liver to your small intestine.Types of Gallbladder Surgery
  • Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy This minimally invasive approach uses small incisions and a camera to remove the gallbladder. Most patients go home the same or next day and recover quickly with less pain and scarring.
  • Open Cholecystectomy In rare cases (such as infection or scar tissue), an open procedure may be needed. This involves a larger incision and a slightly longer recovery time.
Dr Sherif Awad performing laparoscopic gallbladder surgery in Dubai

Recovery After Gallbladder Surgery

  • Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks
  • Patients can resume eating a normal diet after surgery
  • You may notice temporary changes in digestion, but most people adjust quickly

Dr Sherif will give you detailed post-op instructions and support you throughout your recovery.

Wounds after gallbladder surgery

Is Surgery the Only Option?

While medications and lifestyle changes (eating a low-fat diet) may help manage gallstone symptoms temporarily, surgery is the only permanent cure. Gallstones rarely go away on their own and often return if not treated surgically.

Why Choose Dr Sherif?

Dr Sherif is a highly experienced UK-trained Consultant with over 25 years’ experience and  specializes in safe, effective gallbladder removal using the latest minimally invasive techniques. Dr Sherif focuses on:

  • Ethical practice – he will give you an honest opinion on whether surgery is necessary
  • Personalized care and clear communication
  • Prioritising using laparoscopic (keyhole) minimally invasive surgery for faster recovery times
  • Minimizing scarring and post-op discomfort
  • Coordinated care with your primary doctor or GI specialist

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re experiencing gallstone symptoms or have been told you need gallbladder surgery, we’re here to help. Don’t wait for the next painful attack schedule a consultation today and explore your treatment options.

Dr Sherif Awad - Trusted Care for Gallbladder and Digestive Health

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