Top-Rated Gallbladder Surgeon in Phoenix, AZ

Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. These stones develop when substances found in bile, such as cholesterol or bilirubin, become too concentrated and harden. Gallstones can range in size from tiny grains to larger stones capable of blocking the normal flow of bile.

The presence of gallstones can lead to a range of health issues, including inflammation, infection, and obstruction of the bile ducts. When a gallstone blocks the ducts that carry bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine, patients often experience pain known as biliary colic. More serious complications, such as cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), or pancreatitis (pancreas inflammation), can also occur.
 
At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, our experienced surgical team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder diseases, including gallstones. We understand that while some individuals may have no symptoms, others can experience severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort. Our surgeons use advanced diagnostic tools to assess your condition and determine the most effective treatment options.
 
If complications from gallstones arise, surgical intervention—such as a minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)—may be necessary. At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, we are committed to providing compassionate, expert surgical care to ensure you return to optimal health as quickly and safely as possible.

Frequent indigestion or bloating can sometimes be a sign of a gallbladder problem, although these symptoms are common and can have many causes. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver, and it plays an important role in digesting fats by storing and releasing bile. When the gallbladder is not functioning properly, or if gallstones are present, it can lead to digestive symptoms such as bloating, discomfort after eating, nausea, and indigestion. These symptoms are often more noticeable after eating fatty or greasy foods, as the gallbladder is most active during the digestion of these types of meals.
 
We frequently see patients with conditions such as gallstones (cholelithiasis), inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), or biliary dyskinesia—all of which can disrupt normal gallbladder function and lead to ongoing digestive issues. In some cases, the pain may be sharp and occur in the upper right side of the abdomen, and it might even radiate to the back or right shoulder. However, not everyone with a gallbladder issue will experience severe pain; for many people, the only symptoms may be vague indigestion, frequent bloating, or changes in bowel habits.
 
Because these symptoms can also be caused by many other conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances, or acid reflux, it is important to consult a healthcare provider if you are experiencing persistent or worsening digestive issues. The board-certified surgeons at Phoenix Unified Surgeons are experienced in the evaluation and treatment of gallbladder disease. We offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including blood tests, ultrasound imaging, and advanced minimally invasive procedures, to determine whether your symptoms are related to a gallbladder problem or another underlying cause.

If you are experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with conditions that may require gallbladder surgery, the experienced team at Phoenix Unified Surgeons is here to help. You should consider scheduling a consultation with our surgeons if you have frequent or severe right upper abdominal pain—especially after eating fatty foods—or if your pain is accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Common reasons patients are referred to Phoenix Unified Surgeons include the presence of gallstones (cholelithiasis) causing discomfort or leading to complications such as inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis). Other signs that you may need to see one of our specialists include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), unexplained fever, or evidence of blocked bile ducts on imaging studies. Pancreatitis caused by gallstones is another condition that often requires prompt surgical evaluation.
 
Even if your symptoms are mild or if blood tests and imaging suggest a gallbladder problem, our skilled surgeons can provide a thorough assessment and recommend the best treatment options for you. If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening, it’s important to seek medical attention quickly, as gallbladder complications can sometimes become serious and require urgent care.

If you’re looking for a top-rated gallbladder surgeon in Phoenix, Phoenix Unified Surgeons offers a team of highly qualified, board-certified professionals with expertise in laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the gold standard for gallbladder removal. Our surgeons are recognized for their skill in minimally invasive procedures and patient-centered care.

Start by consulting your primary care physician or gastroenterologist for a referral to Phoenix Unified Surgeons. You can also explore our website for details on our surgeons’ credentials, hospital affiliations, and patient testimonials.

Our physicians are featured on trusted platforms like Healthgrades, Zocdoc, and Vitals, where you can read verified patient reviews. It’s important to choose a surgeon who is board-certified in general surgery, trained in minimally invasive techniques, and has a proven track record in gallbladder procedures—all of which define our team.

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, you are in the hands of a highly qualified team, including Dr. Debora J. Fox-McClary, MD. As a dual board-certified surgeon in general surgery and colon and rectal surgery, Dr. Fox-McClary has extensive expertise in a wide range of procedures. Her specialized training in minimally invasive and robotic surgery aligns perfectly with the clinic’s focus on providing the most advanced and least-invasive options for gallbladder surgery. Patients can trust that her commitment to using cutting-edge techniques and her role as a surgical proctor for other surgeons ensure the highest standard of care for your treatment and recovery.

Trust our skilled surgeons to provide the highest level of care and guide you through every step of your recovery. For more information, contact us or book your appointment online. Our office is conveniently located at 20333 N 19th Avenue, Ste 230 Phoenix, AZ 85027. We serve patients from Phoenix AZ, Sun City AZ, Peoria AZ, Surprise AZ, Glendale AZ, Scottsdale AZ, and surrounding areas.