Gallbladder Surgery in Port Charlotte, FL
What is gallbladder surgery?
Gallbladder removal, called a cholecystectomy, is one of the most common general surgery operations. It's often recommended for gallstones that cause pain or an inflamed gallbladder.
How it's done
Gallbladder removal is usually performed with minimally invasive surgery through small incisions. Dr. Tufts will talk with you about which surgical approach fits you best.
Where surgery is performed
Dr. Tufts operates at AdventHealth Port Charlotte and Murdock Surgery Center. Consultations and follow-up visits are at the Charlotte Harbor Surgical office in Port Charlotte.
We care for patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood and across Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.
Frequently asked questions
Can I live normally without my gallbladder?
Yes. The liver still makes bile, which flows directly into the intestine. Some people notice looser stools after fatty meals for a while, and this usually improves over time.
Do gallstones always need surgery?
No. Many people have gallstones that never cause symptoms and do not need treatment. Surgery is usually recommended when gallstones cause pain attacks, inflammation or other complications.
Will changing my diet make gallstones go away?
Eating smaller, lower-fat meals may reduce attacks for some people, but diet does not reliably dissolve gallstones. Once gallstones cause symptoms, they tend to come back.
How is the gallbladder removed?
Most gallbladders are removed laparoscopically through a few small incisions under general anesthesia. Rarely, the surgeon may need to switch to a larger incision for safety.
When should I go to the emergency room?
Go right away for severe upper abdominal pain that lasts for hours, pain with fever or chills, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tufts
Call Charlotte Harbor Surgical in Port Charlotte. Mon–Thu 7:30 am–4:00 pm, Fri 7:30 am–12:00 noon.