What I Learned from My Gallbladder Surgery: Recovery Tips That Help After Any Surgery

June 3, 2025

By Mary Rose Strickland, PT, DPT, OCS

As a physical therapist, I’ve helped hundreds of people navigate post-surgical recovery. But recently, I became the patient. I underwent gallbladder surgery, and while it went well, it gave me a fresh perspective—and a renewed sense of empathy—for what my patients go through.

This isn’t just about gallbladder surgery. Whether you’ve had or are planning for orthopedic surgery—or any other procedure—these tips can help you feel more prepared, supported, and confident in your recovery. Here’s what I learned:

✅ Before Surgery: Ask the Right Questions

Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Ask your surgeon:

• What can and can’t I do right after surgery? For how long?
• What will recovery feel like—physically and emotionally?
• What’s the likelihood this will resolve my symptoms or improve function?
• Are there lifestyle changes or conservative treatments I should try first?
• What are the risks?

Understanding expectations helps you feel more in control—and sets you up for a smoother recovery.

👜 Prepare Smart: Little Things Make a Big Difference

• Clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothes that won’t rub incisions.
• Shoes: Slip-ons are essential—bending to tie shoes is no fun post-op.
• Hospital bag: Even if it’s a same-day procedure, bring a phone charger and puke bucket (just in case).
• Anesthesia care: Arrange for a driver and someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours.

🚶‍♀️ After Surgery: Get Moving (and Resting) Wisely

Contrary to what you might think, bed rest isn’t always best. Unless told otherwise, gentle movement helps:

• Prevent blood clots
• Improve circulation
• Promote healing

You’ll also want to prep ice or heat if needed:

• Large gel ice packs mold to the body and reduce swelling.
• Rice packs provide gentle warmth and reduce burn risk compared to heating pads.

🍲 Nutrition: Fuel Your Recovery

The first day or two may require bland foods (toast, crackers, rice), especially if you’ve had anesthesia. But as soon as you’re able:

• Prioritize protein for tissue repair (Fairlife protein shakes are a great option—high protein, low sugar, lactose-free).
• Avoid inflammatory foods: Limit processed foods, sugar, and excess dairy.
• Consider bone broth, simple proteins (chicken, turkey), and anti-inflammatory foods.
• Hydrate! Water plays a crucial role in healing.

📋 Respect Your Restrictions

Post-op instructions are there for a reason—even the annoying ones like compression stockings. If they’re difficult to put on, ask for help or address sizing before you leave the hospital.

Think twice before “testing” limits. Pain is not always the best guide. Often, we’re protecting healing tissue that can be re-injured without symptoms until it’s too late.

🧠 Rebuild Slowly—With Support

After abdominal or orthopedic surgery, don’t jump right back into your previous activity level. Your body needs time. A physical therapist can help restore:

• Core strength
• Mobility
• Balance
• Overall function

Scar care matters too. Once your incisions are fully healed (usually around 2 weeks), gentle scar massage can help improve mobility and tissue quality. I recommend using a vitamin E oil or lotion to reduce adhesions and support healing.

🤝 Recovery Takes a Village

Healing isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, too.

• Stay connected with family or friends, even virtually, to avoid feeling isolated.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol, which impair healing.
• Ask for help. This was the hardest part for me. I’m used to being the helper, not the one needing help. But asking—whether for meals, chores, or emotional support—was one of the most healing choices I made.

🙏 To My Patients… Thank You

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who’ve been so patient while I’ve been away recovering. I’m officially back and feeling great—and I’m looking forward to continuing your care with renewed empathy, perspective, and energy.

If you’re heading into surgery or supporting someone who is, I hope this gave you some insight and reassurance. You’re not alone—and recovery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When in doubt, ask questions, move thoughtfully, eat to heal, and don’t be afraid to lean on others.

We’re in this together. 💙