Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy) Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy): what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Bowel Recovery
- •It's normal for bowel function to take 2-5 days to normalize
- •Walking helps stimulate bowel activity
- •Stay hydrated, eat fiber gradually
Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy) recovery, day by day
Wound & Drain Care
- Keep incision clean and dry
- Monitor any drains for output and color
- Take prescribed medications with small sips of water
Diet
- Clear liquids only until bowel sounds return
- No food until cleared by your surgeon
- Ice chips to stay comfortable
Diet Advancement
- Advance diet as directed: clear liquids > full liquids > soft foods
- Eat small, frequent meals rather than large ones
- Avoid greasy, spicy, or high-fiber foods initially
Mobility
- Walk frequently to help bowel function return
- Deep breathing exercises to prevent pneumonia
- Avoid straining during bowel movements
Recovery
- Gradually return to normal diet as tolerated
- Monitor bowel habits and report significant changes
- No lifting over 10 lbs for 4-6 weeks
- Attend all follow-up appointments
When to call your provider or 911
- •Fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C) that doesn't respond to medication
- •Uncontrolled bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure
- •Severe pain not managed by prescribed medication
- •Signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing
- •Chest pain, shortness of breath, or rapid heartbeat
- •Redness, warmth, or pus at the incision site (signs of infection)
- •Sudden increase in swelling or pain after initial improvement
- •Numbness or tingling that worsens
- •No bowel movement for 4+ days after surgery
- •Persistent nausea or vomiting
- •Abdominal distension or severe bloating
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Bowel function returns
Passing gas and/or having a bowel movement
- Day 5
Diet advances to solid food
Tolerating soft solid foods without nausea
- Day 4
Lifting restrictions ease
Gradually resume normal lifting per surgeon
- Day 7
Expected recovery
Resume normal diet and activities
For clinics
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