Gallstones are one of the post-bariatric complications that doesn’t get nearly enough attention in pre-operative information sessions — despite being one of the more common ones.
If you’ve had or are considering gastric sleeve surgery, understanding the gallstone risk is genuinely important.
Why Rapid Weight Loss Causes Gallstones
The gallbladder stores bile, which the liver produces to help digest fats. During rapid weight loss, the liver processes and excretes more cholesterol than usual — and that excess cholesterol can crystallise in the gallbladder, forming stones.
The rate of weight loss is a significant factor. The faster weight is lost, the higher the risk. Given that gastric sleeve can produce very rapid weight loss in the first six to twelve months, it’s no surprise that gallstone development is a recognised complication.
What the Symptoms Look Like
Gallstones can be silent — present but causing no symptoms — or they can cause significant pain, particularly after eating fatty foods. Gallbladder attacks typically involve sharp or cramping pain in the upper right abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back or right shoulder, often accompanied by nausea.
If you experience this kind of pain post-op, it’s worth mentioning to your GP rather than assuming it’s a sleeve-related issue. An ultrasound can confirm whether gallstones are present.
What Can Be Done
Some bariatric programmes prescribe a medication called ursodeoxycholic acid in the months following surgery specifically to reduce gallstone risk during rapid weight loss — worth asking your team about if it wasn’t mentioned.
If gallstones develop and cause symptoms, the standard treatment is surgical removal of the gallbladder — a common, laparoscopic procedure. It sounds drastic but is routine and recovery is generally straightforward.
Disclaimer: This post is based on our personal experience and is intended for general information only. It should not be taken as medical advice. Every journey is different, and it’s important to speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your own circumstances before making any medical decisions.