Is The Gallbladder Removed During Liver Transplant
Wondering if the gallbladder is removed during a liver transplant? Learn why it's typically taken out, how it affects digestion, and what to expect after surgery.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 7th Jul, 2025
Introduction
If you or a loved one is preparing for a liver transplant, you may have questions about what happens to other organs, especially the gallbladder. Many patients wonder whether the gallbladder is removed during the procedure. Let’s break it down in simple terms to help you understand what to expect.
What Happens to the Gallbladder During a Liver Transplant?
In most cases, the gallbladder is removed during a liver transplant, even if it is healthy. Here’s why:
1. Anatomical Connection – The gallbladder is attached to the liver via the bile ducts. Since the transplant involves replacing the diseased liver with a healthy one, surgeons often remove the gallbladder to avoid complications.
2. Preventing Future Issues – A healthy gallbladder today may develop problems like gallstones or inflammation later. Removing it during the transplant reduces future risks.
3. Simplifies Surgery – The bile ducts need to be reconnected to the new liver. Keeping the gallbladder in place can make this process more complicated.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice
Will I Face Problems Without a Gallbladder?
The good news is that you can live a normal, healthy life without a gallbladder. Here’s what you should know:
Digestion Adjustments – The gallbladder stores bile (a digestive fluid), but your liver still produces it. Without a gallbladder, bile flows directly into the intestine, which may cause temporary digestive changes like loose stools or indigestion.
Dietary Modifications – Some people need to adjust their diet initially by reducing fatty or greasy foods. Over time, most patients return to a normal diet.
No Major Long-Term Effects – Many people don’t even notice the absence of their gallbladder after recovery.
Recovery After Liver Transplant (Including Gallbladder Removal)
After surgery, your medical team will guide you on:
Medications – Immunosuppressants to prevent organ rejection.
Diet & Hydration – Eating balanced meals and staying hydrated helps healing.
Follow-Up Visits – Regular check-ups ensure the new liver is functioning well.
When to Consult a Doctor
After transplant surgery, contact your healthcare team if you notice any of the following symptoms:
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
Unexplained fever
If you have concerns about liver transplants or gallbladder removal, Apollo 24|7 offers specialist consultations. You can book an appointment with a hepatologist or transplant surgeon for personalised guidance.
Final Thoughts
While the gallbladder is usually removed during a liver transplant, it doesn’t significantly impact long-term health. Focus on post-surgery care, follow medical advice, and maintain a healthy lifestyle for the best recovery.
Consult Top Hepatologists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice
Dr. Sushith C
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Kumaragurubaran. S
Hepatologist
0 Years • MBBS.,MD.,FPIC.,DM.,
Tiruchirappalli
Apollo Speciality Hospitals Old Palpannai, Tiruchirappalli
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Madhu Sudan Modi
Surgical Gastroenterologist
35 Years • Gold Medalists. MBBS (Hons.), MS (Surgery), DNB (Surgical Gastroenterology), FRCS (England), MRCS (England), FACS (USA), FHPB (Germany), FLTx (Korea & UK), FMAS, , PDCC (TMH Mumbai). Senior Consultant - GI Surgery, GI Cancer, Laparoscopy, Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic & Liver Transplant Surgeon.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Prof. Dr. Kanhu Charan Das
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
24 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine) DM (Gastroenterology & Hepatology, CMC, Vellore). Advanced Proceduralist (ERCP, EUS, POEM & ESD) Senior Consultant - Gastroenterologist.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
(300+ Patients)
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Consult Top Hepatologists
Dr. Sushith C
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Kumaragurubaran. S
Hepatologist
0 Years • MBBS.,MD.,FPIC.,DM.,
Tiruchirappalli
Apollo Speciality Hospitals Old Palpannai, Tiruchirappalli
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Madhu Sudan Modi
Surgical Gastroenterologist
35 Years • Gold Medalists. MBBS (Hons.), MS (Surgery), DNB (Surgical Gastroenterology), FRCS (England), MRCS (England), FACS (USA), FHPB (Germany), FLTx (Korea & UK), FMAS, , PDCC (TMH Mumbai). Senior Consultant - GI Surgery, GI Cancer, Laparoscopy, Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic & Liver Transplant Surgeon.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Prof. Dr. Kanhu Charan Das
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
24 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine) DM (Gastroenterology & Hepatology, CMC, Vellore). Advanced Proceduralist (ERCP, EUS, POEM & ESD) Senior Consultant - Gastroenterologist.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
(300+ Patients)
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
