Not everyone recovers the same way after gallbladder removal surgery.

But in general, many individuals who have their gallbladder removed are surprised when they feel many of the same symptoms they had before their procedure.

There's a medical name for this phenomenon. It's called postcholecystectomy syndrome (cholecystectomy is the medical name for gallbladder removal operation).

As many as 4 out of 10 people who have their gallbladder removed may experience this syndrome after their operation. This occurs because the bile duct, which has not been removed, still accumulates bile. The job of the bile duct is to transport bile between the liver and the gallbladder.

As for the first few days after gallbladder surgery, here's what to expect.

Swelling and bruising will occur around the surgical area. This is not surprising when you think about it.

The air that was pumped into the surgical area during your operation may also cause some slight discomfort. The reason this is done is to give the surgeon room to manipulate his or her instruments. If you're feeling a lot of distress due to this, you can ask your doctor for some pain relief medications.

Moving around may become something of a challenge - especially sitting down or getting up. At least for a few days, you may find "bathroom time" somewhat uncomfortable. Abdominal muscles will need at least several days to heal before soreness fades.

It's typical to have more gas and bloating than usual for several days after your procedure. Diarrhea often occurs too. Some people get constipation. It doesn't happen to everyone, but it happens to enough people after gallbladder removal surgery that you should be aware of it. If bowel movements become somewhat distressing, check with your doctor to see what he or she can recommend to help.

Keep in mind, it's completely normal for your digestive system to be somewhat unpredictable. For this reason, it's a good idea to follow your doctor's dietary instructions. Low cholesterol foods and cholesterol-free foods tend to work best for most people.

Most people who have had a cholecystectomy do better if they eat smaller meals for a while. Large meals, especially cholesterol-rich, fatty ones, are too hard for your digestive system to handle at first. But definitely make sure you get enough to eat, because again, your body is recovering from a trauma. It needs fuel to regain its strength.

You can start testing your digestion in the weeks after your operation to see if it can handle some heavier foods.

Exercise can help speed your recovery, but be sure not to try to do too much too soon. If you were an enthusiastic exerciser before your surgery, you may be eager to get going again. Be careful. Be mindful of your stitches. Talk to your doctor about this.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about baths and showers. Most stitches don't do well with wetness.

In most cases, your doctor will want your first follow up appointment to happen within a week to ten days. He or she will probably want to see you a month or so after that.

Are you searching for more information on what to expect after gallbladder removal surgery and related topics? Click on Gallbladder Removal Surgery Information. Neal Kennedy is a former radio and television reporter with a special interest in topics related to kidney health. You can read more of his articles at http://www.gallbladderhealth.info.