Step 01 · Recognise
The first signals — pain, bloating, discomfort
Most patients notice sharp upper-right abdominal pain after fatty meals, along with nausea, bloating, or indigestion. These are the classic signs of gallstones asking for attention.
Expert laparoscopic gall bladder removal for gallstones and gall bladder disease. Minimally invasive surgery with fast recovery and compassionate care for patients across Dubai, Sharjah, and the UAE.
The Patient Journey
A calm, guided path through gall bladder care — from the first twinge of pain to feeling like yourself again.
Step 01 · Recognise
Most patients notice sharp upper-right abdominal pain after fatty meals, along with nausea, bloating, or indigestion. These are the classic signs of gallstones asking for attention.
Step 02 · Discuss
Dr. Vanesha Varik listens to your history, understands your lifestyle, and explains what the symptoms may mean — in plain, honest language.
Step 03 · Confirm
An abdominal ultrasound and targeted blood tests confirm gallstones or gall bladder inflammation, so the treatment plan is built on evidence — not assumption.
Step 04 · Understand
Recurrent pain, cholecystitis, or complications mean the gall bladder is no longer safe to keep. Cholecystectomy resolves the problem permanently and prevents future emergencies.
Step 05 · Treat
A high-definition camera and delicate instruments remove the gall bladder through incisions under a centimetre wide. Same-day or next-day discharge for most patients.
Step 06 · Heal
Walking the same evening. Light meals the next day. Most patients return to normal routine within one to two weeks, guided by clear post-operative care.
Gall bladder surgery (cholecystectomy) is the surgical removal of the gall bladder to treat gallstones, cholecystitis, and other gall bladder diseases. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the preferred technique, using small incisions for less pain, faster recovery, and same-day discharge.
Watch Dr. Vanesha Varik explain key aspects of gallbladder surgery in these educational videos.
Anatomy Focus
Gallbladder
Right upper abdomen — day-care laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallstones and cholecystitis.
Focused surgical care by Dr. Vanesha Varik
Sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen — especially after meals — is the hallmark symptom of gallstones. This pain (biliary colic) may radiate to the right shoulder or back.
Nausea, bloating, indigestion, and intolerance to fatty foods are common signs of gallbladder disease that patients frequently search for online.
⚠️ Ignoring symptoms may lead to serious complications including gall bladder rupture. Early surgical consultation is advised.
Hard stone-like deposits in the gall bladder that cause pain, bloating, and digestive issues.
Inflammation or infection of the gall bladder that can worsen if left untreated.
Growth on the gall bladder wall that may require monitoring or surgical removal.
Intermittent severe pain caused by gallstones temporarily blocking the bile duct.
Follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth surgical experience and optimal recovery.
Gall bladder disease, most commonly caused by gallstones, can lead to severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort. Gall bladder surgery (cholecystectomy) is the most effective and permanent treatment for symptomatic gallstones and gall bladder infections. Upper abdominal pain can sometimes mimic other conditions — it is important to differentiate gallbladder disease from epigastric hernia, appendicitis, and other acute abdominal conditions through proper evaluation.
As a specialist laparoscopic and general surgeon, Dr. Vanesha Varik uses advanced minimally invasive techniques to ensure safe surgery, faster recovery, and minimal scarring at Medcare Hospital Dubai. She also treats other digestive and abdominal conditions including anorectal disorders and performs minor outpatient procedures for associated conditions.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard approach, using 3–4 small incisions (5–10mm) with a camera for precise visualisation. Open cholecystectomy may be required in complicated cases such as severe inflammation, gangrene, or when conversion from laparoscopic is necessary for patient safety.
Dr. Vanesha Varik performs laparoscopic cholecystectomy whenever safely possible, reserving open surgery for cases where it provides the safest outcome.
Pre-operative assessment includes blood tests, abdominal ultrasound, and anaesthesia evaluation. Patients fast for 6–8 hours before surgery.
Under general anaesthesia, 3–4 small incisions are made. The abdomen is gently inflated with carbon dioxide gas. A camera and surgical instruments are inserted to visualise and carefully dissect the gall bladder from the liver bed. The cystic duct and artery are clipped and divided, and the gall bladder is removed through one of the small incisions.
Most patients walk within hours, eat the same day, and go home within 24 hours. Full recovery occurs within 1–2 weeks.
Gallbladder surgery is very safe, but potential risks include:
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Dubai is priced as an all-inclusive package covering the surgeon, anaesthetist, theatre, day-care or overnight room, standard medications and one follow-up. The final figure depends on hospital category, room class, whether the case is elective or emergency, and your insurance plan. A written estimate is provided at consultation after ultrasound review — read the full gallbladder surgery cost in Dubai guide for a detailed breakdown.
Daman, AXA, Cigna, Aetna, Allianz, MetLife, NextCare, Neuron, Nas and most other UAE insurers cover medically indicated cholecystectomy with prior authorisation.
Not every gallstone needs surgery. Use this symptom & stone-size guide as an indicator, then confirm with a formal consultation.
Silent stones (no symptoms)
Small stones found incidentally on ultrasound with no pain — usually observed, no surgery needed unless risk factors present.
Occasional biliary colic (pain after fatty meals)
Intermittent right upper abdominal pain — elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy recommended to prevent complications.
Large stones (>1 cm) or gallbladder polyps >1 cm
Higher risk of complications and gallbladder cancer — surgery recommended even if symptoms are mild.
Acute cholecystitis (fever + persistent pain)
Gallbladder infection — early laparoscopic cholecystectomy during the same admission is the standard of care.
Jaundice, dark urine or pancreatitis
Suggests bile duct stones — urgent evaluation, MRCP/ERCP followed by cholecystectomy.
Read more: Do gallstones always need surgery? · Gallstone symptoms in women · Bile duct stones treatment
Read more from our medical blog for expert guidance and patient education.
Find answers to common questions about gall bladder surgery and treatment.
Dr. Vanesha Varik — Specialist General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MRCS (UK), FIAGES
Published: January 2025 · Last Updated: March 2026
Comprehensive surgical care by Dr. Vanesha Varik at Medcare Hospital Dubai, Sharjah & UAE.
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If you are experiencing gall bladder pain or gallstones, timely evaluation can prevent complications. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Vanesha Varik.
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual treatment plans vary based on patient conditions and medical history. Please consult with Dr. Vanesha Varik for personalized medical advice.
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Read guideWhat UAE health plans typically cover, pre-authorisation and co-pay.
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