Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Gallbladder Surgery in Puerto Vallarta

If you have gallstones or recurring pain after eating, laparoscopic gallbladder removal is a safe, common procedure with a fast recovery. Performed by a board-certified General Surgeon with specific training in minimally invasive techniques.

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What are the symptoms of a gallbladder problem?

Gallstones and gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) usually present recognizable signs. If you have several of these symptoms, especially after fatty meals, it is worth getting evaluated:

Pain in the upper right abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back or shoulder
Pain that appears or worsens after large or fatty meals
Recurring nausea or vomiting
A bloated or heavy feeling after eating
Colic-type pain episodes lasting minutes to hours
In more advanced cases: fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

When is surgery necessary?

Not all gallstones require immediate surgery, but it is recommended when there are recurring symptoms, large stones, gallbladder inflammation, or risk of complications such as bile duct obstruction or pancreatitis. In consultation, your specific case is evaluated based on your symptoms, imaging studies (such as ultrasound), and medical history to determine if surgery is the best option for you.

What is the procedure like?

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the current standard technique — performed through 3 to 4 very small incisions instead of one large cut, which reduces postoperative pain and speeds up recovery.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during surgery.
3-4 small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical instruments.
The gallbladder is carefully separated and removed through one of the incisions.
The incisions are closed with internal stitches or surgical adhesive. Most patients walk the same day.

Procedure duration: Between 45 and 90 minutes in most cases. Most patients are discharged 24 to 48 hours after surgery.

What is recovery like?

One of the major advantages of the laparoscopic technique is fast recovery. Most patients resume light activities in 3 to 5 days and normal activities in 1 to 2 weeks. The human body functions perfectly without a gallbladder — the liver continues producing the bile needed for digestion.

Frequently asked questions

Is recovery painful?

Most patients report mild to moderate pain in the first 2-3 days, controlled with common pain relievers. Because it is laparoscopic, the pain is considerably less than with open surgery.

Can I live without a gallbladder?

Yes, completely. The gallbladder stores bile but is not essential — the liver keeps producing the bile needed to digest fats normally.

How much does the surgery cost?

The cost varies depending on the hospital, room type, and whether you have major medical insurance. At the initial consultation ($800 MXN) you receive a complete, transparent quote.

Do you accept medical insurance?

Yes, major medical insurance is accepted in addition to self-pay.

Do you see patients who don’t speak Spanish?

Yes, the consultation and the entire surgical process are available in fluent English.

Do you have symptoms of gallstones?

Book your consultation and get a clear evaluation of your specific case.

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