Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver that stores bile. This surgery is commonly performed to treat conditions such as gallstones, which can cause pain, inflammation, or infection. The procedure can be done using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery, which involves smaller incisions and typically results in quicker recovery times. After a cholecystectomy, patients may experience changes in digestion since bile will flow directly from the liver to the intestines without being stored in the gallbladder. Most people can return to their normal diet and activities within a few weeks, although some may need to adjust their eating habits to manage any digestive issues that arise.