When to See a Gallbladder Surgeon for Your Symptoms in Phoenix, AZ

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, our team of highly skilled surgeons specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the gallbladder, a small but important organ located beneath the liver that stores bile. Our surgeons are extensively trained in general surgery, with advanced expertise in gallbladder procedures—most notably, gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy).
 
We provide comprehensive care for a wide range of gallbladder issues, including gallstones, infections, inflammation (cholecystitis), polyps, and, on rare occasions, gallbladder cancer. When non-surgical treatments are not effective, our surgeons are proficient in the latest surgical techniques. The most common procedure we perform is laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a minimally invasive surgery that involves making small incisions and using a camera for precise removal of the gallbladder. For more complex cases, our surgeons are also experienced in performing open surgeries when necessary.
 
At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, our commitment extends beyond the operating room. We thoroughly evaluate patients before surgery, provide attentive post-operative care, and work closely with other specialists—such as gastroenterologists—to ensure you receive the highest standard of coordinated care. Our primary goal is to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and enhance the overall quality of life for our patients dealing with gallbladder disease.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may point to a problem with your gallbladder, knowing when to seek expert care is crucial.
 
Common warning signs include:

Pain in the upper right side or middle of your abdomen: This pain may come on suddenly, be severe or crampy, and often occurs after eating fatty foods. The discomfort can also radiate to your right shoulder or back.

• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating or indigestion
• A feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food
 
More serious symptoms that require prompt evaluation:

Yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice): This may signal a blockage in your bile ducts and should be addressed right away.
 
Fever and chills, especially with abdominal pain: These may indicate an infection such as cholecystitis, which can become serious if not treated quickly.
 
• Dark urine or unusually pale stools 
• Inability to keep food down
 
If you notice any of these symptoms—especially if they are severe, persistent, or getting worse—it is important to seek medical attention promptly. The experienced gallbladder surgery providers at Phoenix Unified Surgeons can assess your symptoms, perform appropriate diagnostic tests, and determine if you need surgical intervention. Our goal is to provide you with expert, compassionate care and to guide you through every step of your treatment.

Gallbladder-related abdominal pain often presents with a distinct set of characteristics. The pain usually arises in the right upper part of the abdomen, just below the ribcage, and may radiate to the right shoulder or back. Patients often describe this pain as a steady, intense ache rather than a sharp or cramping sensation. Frequently, the discomfort develops or worsens after eating fatty or greasy foods, sometimes beginning within minutes to a couple of hours after a meal.
 
Other symptoms that may accompany gallbladder-related pain include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and, in cases of infection (such as cholecystitis), fever or chills. The pain can last from several minutes to a few hours, and in some cases, it may become severe enough to require emergency attention—especially if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), persistent vomiting, or a high fever.
 
Because other digestive or abdominal conditions can cause similar symptoms, it’s important to get a precise diagnosis. If you experience severe, persistent, or recurrent abdominal pain—or if your pain is associated with concerning symptoms such as jaundice or high fever—the team at Phoenix Unified Surgeons recommends prompt medical evaluation. Our surgeons are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating gallbladder disease. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools, including blood tests and ultrasound imaging, to determine the cause of your symptoms and to guide your treatment options, which may include minimally invasive surgery when appropriate.

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, your first consultation for gallbladder concerns is designed to be thorough, informative, and patient-centered.
 
During your appointment, your gallbladder surgeon will begin by carefully reviewing your medical history. We’ll ask about any symptoms you’ve experienced—such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or digestive issues—as well as any previous gallbladder attacks or known gallstones. Your overall health, including any other medical conditions and current medications, will also be discussed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your health.
 
A focused physical examination will follow, with special attention to your abdomen to check for tenderness, swelling, or signs of infection. If you have had previous imaging studies—like an ultrasound, CT scan, or blood tests—your surgeon will review these results with you. If additional tests are needed, Phoenix Unified Surgeons can coordinate these to provide a clear picture of your gallbladder’s health.
 
Once all relevant information is gathered, your surgeon will explain your diagnosis in detail. If surgery is necessary, we will discuss the recommended procedure—most often a laparoscopic cholecystectomy—and outline what you can expect before, during, and after surgery. Our team will review the risks and benefits, answer your questions, and cover important topics such as recovery time, dietary changes, activity restrictions, and follow-up care.
 
At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, we encourage you to bring up any concerns and ask about non-surgical alternatives if appropriate. Our goal is to ensure you feel fully informed and comfortable with your treatment plan, so you can make the best decisions for your health.

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, Dr. Debora J. Fox-McClary, M.D., MBA, FACS, FASCRS, offers expert care for gallbladder conditions. As a dual board-certified surgeon in general surgery and colon and rectal surgery, she brings over 25 years of experience to her practice. She specializes in treating gallbladder issues such as gallstones, cholecystitis, biliary dyskinesia, and pancreatitis. She employs advanced techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic surgeries, to ensure optimal outcomes and faster recovery times for her patients.

Dr. Fox-McClary provides personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient. She emphasizes patient education, ensuring individuals understand their condition and treatment options. Her compassionate approach aims to alleviate discomfort and improve quality of life. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, or jaundice, she is dedicated to delivering comprehensive care to manage and resolve gallbladder-related issues
 
Trust Phoenix Unified Surgeons to provide the expert care you need for a smooth and effective 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.