- 2-3 days in China
- 1-2 weeks
- 83%
China versus the U.S.
- China clinical rate
- $2,000 – $5,000
- $3,500
- United States
- $10,000 – $30,000
- $20,000
- You save
- ~83%
- $16,500 per procedure
Prices are approximate ranges. Actual cost depends on hospital, surgeon, materials, and case complexity.
What the procedure involves.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in China, with surgeons highly experienced in both standard and single-incision techniques. China's major hospitals use 4K laparoscopic systems and offer same-week scheduling for international patients. The procedure is performed as a day surgery or with one overnight stay, allowing patients to resume travel quickly.
Step by step.
Diagnosis & Pre-Operative Workup
Abdominal ultrasound to confirm gallstones or gallbladder disease, blood tests including liver function, and anesthesia assessment. Urgent cases can be scheduled within 24-48 hours.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Under general anesthesia, 3-4 small incisions are made. The gallbladder is dissected free using laparoscopic instruments and removed through one of the incisions. Intraoperative cholangiography is performed if bile duct stones are suspected.
Recovery & Discharge
Most patients are discharged the same day or after one overnight stay. Pain is managed with oral medications. Dietary guidelines are provided for gradual reintroduction of fatty foods.
- 70-80% cost savings compared to cholecystectomy in the US
- Minimally invasive technique with small incisions and rapid recovery
- High-volume surgeons performing hundreds of cases annually
- Fast scheduling — surgery often within days of arrival
- Rare bile duct injury (0.3-0.5%) requiring additional surgery
- Post-cholecystectomy syndrome (diarrhea, bloating) in some patients
- Conversion to open surgery if anatomy is complex (less than 5%)
- Mild shoulder pain from gas insufflation, resolving in 1-2 days
Ask the AI for hospitals that handle gallbladder removal.
Prices shown are approximate ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by hospital, complexity, and individual patient needs. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical decisions.