Gallstones & Gallbladder Surgery in Mexico
Definitive removal of gallstones with laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Same-day discharge for most patients. Covered by most insurance plans.
What is Cholelithiasis?
Cholelithiasis is the formation of stones (gallstones) inside the gallbladder. It is one of the most common digestive conditions, especially in women, overweight individuals, and people over 40. When stones block the bile duct, they trigger intense pain known as biliary colic and can lead to serious complications such as acute cholecystitis, cholangitis, or pancreatitis.
Types of Gallstones
Cholesterol Stones
Account for 80% of cases. They form when bile contains excess cholesterol that crystallizes over time.
Pigment Stones
Associated with hemolytic anemia or infections. They contain excess bilirubin and tend to be smaller and darker.
Mixed Stones
Combine cholesterol and bile salts. May cause obstruction of the common bile duct, cholangitis, or acute pancreatitis.
Most Common Symptoms
Many patients with gallstones are asymptomatic for years. However, when stones block bile flow, clear symptoms appear:
Biliary Colic
Intense pain in the upper right abdomen, usually after fatty meals. May radiate to the right shoulder or back.
Nausea & Bloating
Feeling of fullness, gas, and nausea after meals — especially with fatty or heavy foods.
Fever & Jaundice
Fever suggests acute cholecystitis. Yellowing of skin and eyes indicates bile duct obstruction and requires immediate attention.
Treatment: Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for definitive treatment of gallstones. Dr. Alejandro López Ortega performs the procedure through 3 to 4 small incisions of less than 1 cm, with fast recovery and minimal discomfort.
Advantages of the Laparoscopic Approach
- Tiny incisions (less than 1 cm each)
- Same-day or next-day discharge
- Return to normal activities in 1–2 weeks
- No permanent dietary restrictions
- Lower risk of infection and complications
How Does the Procedure Work?
Abdominal ultrasound and lab work to confirm diagnosis and plan the surgery.
Under general anesthesia. The entire gallbladder along with the stones is removed through 3–4 small incisions.
4–6 hours of observation. Most patients are discharged the same day or the following morning.
Soft diet for the first few days, then normal eating. Follow-up visit at 7–10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do asymptomatic gallstones require surgery?
Not always. Asymptomatic stones can be monitored. However, if the patient experiences pain episodes, risk of complications, or has a thickened gallbladder wall, preventive surgery is recommended.
Can gallstones be dissolved with medication?
Medications exist to dissolve small cholesterol stones, but the process takes months to years and has a high recurrence rate. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the definitive treatment.
What tests do I need before surgery?
An abdominal ultrasound is the primary study to confirm the diagnosis, along with blood tests (complete blood count, liver function tests) and an EKG depending on patient age.
Will I be able to eat normally after gallbladder removal?
Yes. Most patients return to a normal diet within a few weeks. A soft, low-fat diet is recommended during recovery, but there are no permanent restrictions for most people.
Is cholecystectomy covered by insurance?
Yes. Most insurance plans cover it when there is documented medical indication. We work with major insurers. Contact us to verify your coverage.
What happens if gallstones go untreated?
Untreated stones can progress to acute cholecystitis, cholangitis, or biliary pancreatitis — conditions requiring emergency surgery with higher complication risks.
Experiencing Pain in Your Right Side?
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Alejandro López Ortega. Accurate diagnosis and laparoscopic surgery available in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.