Gallbladder Removal in Vietnam

1. Introduction

Gallbladder removal—also known as cholecystectomy—is one of the most common and effective surgeries for treating gallstones and gallbladder inflammation. Millions of patients worldwide undergo this procedure each year, but rising healthcare costs in countries like Australia, the U.S., and Europe have led many patients to seek treatment abroad.

Vietnam has become a fast-growing destination for safe, affordable, and high-quality gallbladder surgery, attracting international patients from Australia, the U.S., Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Middle East. With internationally accredited hospitals, English-speaking surgeons, modern laparoscopic technology, and significantly lower costs, Vietnam offers excellent value without compromising medical standards.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about gallbladder removal in Vietnam in 2025—including the types of surgery, costs, recovery expectations, recommended hospitals, and how to plan your medical trip.

2. What Is Gallbladder Removal?

Gallbladder removal surgery, or cholecystectomy, is a procedure to remove the gallbladder—an organ responsible for storing bile produced by the liver. It is performed when gallstones or inflammation cause pain, infection, or complications.

There are two main types of cholecystectomy:

2.1 Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Minimally Invasive)

This is the most common and preferred method.

• 3–4 very small incisions (5–10 mm)

• A laparoscope (camera) guides the surgeon

• Less pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery

• Patients usually go home within 24–48 hours

2.2 Open Cholecystectomy

Used only for complicated cases, such as severe infection, large gallstones, or scarring:

• 10–15 cm incision

• Longer hospital stay (3–5 days)

• Longer recovery time (4–6 weeks)

Most patients traveling to Vietnam undergo laparoscopic gallbladder removal, which is safe, fast, and highly effective.

3. Why Choose Vietnam for Gallbladder Removal?

3.1 Affordable Cost (Up to 70% Savings)

Patients typically save 50–70% compared to Western countries.
Despite the lower cost, hospitals in Vietnam use international-standard equipment and minimally invasive techniques.

3.2 International-Accredited Hospitals

Several private hospitals in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang meet JCI or equivalent global standards, ensuring:

• Sterile operating theaters

• Modern laparoscopic systems

• Experienced gastrointestinal surgeons

• English-speaking care teams

3.3 Fast Scheduling & Minimal Wait Times

Unlike systems with long surgical waiting lists (e.g., Australia or Canada), Vietnam offers:

• Consultation within 24–48 hours

• Surgery within the same week if required

3.4 Surgeons Trained Abroad

Many surgeons received training in:

• France

• Japan

• South Korea

• Singapore

• The United States

They perform thousands of laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries every year.

3.5 Ideal Destination for Recovery

Vietnam offers soft climates, beach destinations, comfortable hotels, and excellent hospitality — making it a great place for postoperative recovery.

A Vietnamese specialist consulting an international patient about gallbladder removal in Vietnam.

4. Who Needs Gallbladder Removal?

Doctors typically recommend gallbladder removal for:

• Gallstones causing pain (biliary colic)

• Gallbladder infection (acute cholecystitis)

• Stones blocking the bile duct

• Pancreatitis caused by gallstones

• Gallbladder polyps > 1 cm

• Chronic inflammation or repeated attacks

Symptoms may include:

• Severe right-upper abdominal pain

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fever

• Jaundice

• Pain after eating fatty meals

If left untreated, gallstones can lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis or perforation.

5. Cost of Gallbladder Removal in Vietnam (2025 Update)

5.1 Typical Costs

Prices generally include:

• Pre-op blood tests

• Ultrasound / CT scans

• Surgical fees

• Anesthesia

• 1–2 days hospital stay

• Basic medications

5.2 Factors Affecting Cost

• Private vs public hospital

• Type of surgery (laparoscopic vs open)

• Surgeon’s experience

• Additional tests (MRCP, ERCP)

• Complication risk

• Room type (standard, VIP, ICU if needed)

6. Best Hospitals for Gallbladder Removal in Vietnam (Recommended for Foreigners)

6.1 Vinmec International Hospital System

Cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Ha Long, Phu Quoc
Highlights:

• JCI-accredited

• Minimally invasive & laparoscopic specialists

• VIP international care

• English-speaking nurses

• Modern surgical theaters

6.2 FV Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City)

• JCI-accredited

• French-Vietnamese medical model

• Excellent GI & hepatobiliary surgeons

• Popular among expats and overseas patients

6.3 Tam Anh General Hospital (Hanoi & HCMC)

• Strong digestive & hepatobiliary center

• Advanced laparoscopy

• Modern ICU & recovery wards

6.4 HCMC University Medical Center (HCMC)

• Large public hospital with high surgical volume

• Affordable options

• Highly experienced surgeons

6.5 Da Nang Family Hospital / Da Nang General Hospital

• Good option for patients visiting Central Vietnam

7. The Procedure: What to Expect

7.1 Pre-operative Assessment

You may need:

• Blood tests

• Abdominal ultrasound

• CT scan or MRI if needed

• ECG

• Anesthesia evaluation

International patients usually receive a medical coordinator who helps arrange scheduling and translation.

8. Step-by-Step: Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal

1. General anesthesia is administered

2. 3–4 small incisions made in the abdomen

3. Abdomen inflated with CO₂

4. Laparoscope (camera) inserted

5. Gallbladder detached from liver

6. Bile duct and artery clipped

7. Gallbladder removed through small incision

8. Incisions stitched or glued

9. Recovery in hospital for 24–48 hours

Total surgical time: 45–90 minutes

9. Recovery After Gallbladder Removal in Vietnam

Hospital Stay

• Laparoscopic: 1–2 nights

• Open surgery: 3–5 nights

Returning to Normal Activities

Diet After Surgery

The majority of patients tolerate food well after surgery. Recommended:

• Small, frequent meals

• Low-fat diet for the first 1–2 weeks

• Hydration

• Avoid alcohol temporarily

10. Risks and Possible Complications

Gallbladder removal is considered safe, especially when performed laparoscopically. However, complications may include:

• Infection

• Bile leakage

• Bleeding

• Injury to bile ducts

• Post-cholecystectomy syndrome (rare)

Vietnamese hospitals follow strict protocols to minimize risks.

11. Travel Tips for International Patients

11.1 Best Cities for Treatment

• Hanoi – Vinmec, Tam Anh

• Ho Chi Minh City – FV Hospital, UMC, Tam Anh

• Da Nang – Family Hospital, Vinmec

11.2 Suggested Length of Stay in Vietnam

• Minimum: 5–7 days

• Ideal: 10 days (to allow follow-up & recovery)

11.3 Prepare Your Documents

• Passport (valid 6+ months)

• Medical records (ultrasound, blood tests if available)

• List of medications

11.4 Language Support

Most private hospitals offer:

• English-speaking doctors

• Interpreters

• Dedicated international patient coordinators

12. Why Vietnam Is a Great Choice for Medical Tourists

• International-quality surgery at a fraction of the cost

• No long waiting lists

• Highly trained surgeons

• Modern medical equipment

• Safe and beautiful travel environment

• Professional medical coordinators specializing in foreign patients

Vietnam is quickly becoming a leading choice for medical travelers seeking safe, effective, and affordable gallbladder removal surgery.

13. Conclusion

Gallbladder removal in Vietnam is an excellent option for patients seeking affordable, high-quality, and safe treatment, especially compared to the high costs in Western healthcare systems. With advanced laparoscopic techniques, internationally accredited hospitals, and dedicated care teams for foreign patients, Vietnam offers one of the best value-for-money healthcare experiences in Asia.

Whether you are experiencing gallstone pain, recurrent infections, or complications from biliary obstruction, Vietnam provides reliable and modern medical solutions with fast scheduling and professional care.