Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, or keyhole surgery, is the standard technique for gallbladder removal in Turkey. Surgeons perform this minimally invasive procedure through small abdominal incisions. They often complete it in under 2 hours. Over 98% of cases proceed without needing conversion to traditional open surgery.
- Keyhole technique: Surgeons use a camera and tiny instruments to safely remove the gallbladder.
- Robotic assistance: Some centres like Memorial Göztepe Hospital use the da Vinci XI robotic system.
- Hospital stay: Patients typically spend 0–2 days in hospital depending on their recovery speed.
- Low risk: Minimal scarring and faster recovery compared to traditional open abdominal surgery methods.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Turkish surgical teams frequently perform no-drain procedures, which can significantly improve comfort during early recovery. Some Istanbul clinics offer gallbladder-preserving stone removal. During your consultation, confirm whether the surgeon plans a full cholecystectomy or this less common preservation technique.
Patient Consensus: Most patients in Turkey receive keyhole surgery as the default option unless unexpected complications arise. The process is straightforward. Many clinics include VIP transfers to handle all logistics between the airport and hospital.