How much does gallbladder removal cost?
Gallbladder removal — a laparoscopic cholecystectomy — is one of the most common general surgeries. As of mid-2026, the negotiated facility price has a median around $6,100, with most hospitals between $900 and $12,200. The cash (self-pay) median is a bit lower, around $5,650. See gallbladder surgery prices →
Emergency vs. planned — it changes everything
The biggest factor in what you pay is whether it's planned. A sudden gallbladder attack (acute cholecystitis) often means emergency surgery and an inpatient stay — you can't shop, and the bill is much higher. If your surgery is elective (scheduled for recurring gallstones), you have time to compare facilities and ask for a bundled price.
What the price includes
The published figure is usually the facility fee. The surgeon and anesthesiologist are commonly billed separately, so ask for an all-in quote. Laparoscopic removal is typically outpatient — you go home the same day — but if it's converted to open surgery or you're admitted, the cost rises.
Surgery center vs. hospital
A planned laparoscopic cholecystectomy can sometimes be done at an ambulatory surgery center, which is often cheaper than a hospital. Ask your surgeon whether that's appropriate for you.
The three prices you'll see
- Cash / self-pay price — what you pay directly; for this surgery it can be slightly below the insured rate.
- Negotiated price — your plan's rate; your share depends on your deductible and coinsurance.
- Gross / chargemaster price — the list price, far above what anyone pays.
How to pay less (when you can)
- If it's elective, compare facilities and ask each for a bundled price.
- Ask about an outpatient or ASC setting.
- Confirm what's included and get the self-pay price in writing if uninsured.
- Apply for financial assistance if an emergency leaves you with a large bill. How financial assistance works →
A note on accuracy
Figures come from hospitals' published price files (45 CFR §180), not estimates. Your cost depends on the facility, whether it's an emergency, and your plan. How we source this →
Frequently asked questions
How much does laparoscopic gallbladder removal cost?
The negotiated facility price has a median around $6,100, with most hospitals between roughly $900 and $12,200. The self-pay median is a bit lower, near $5,650. The surgeon and anesthesia are often billed separately.
Why is emergency gallbladder surgery so much more expensive?
An emergency (acute gallbladder attack) usually means inpatient admission and surgery you can't shop for, which costs far more than a planned outpatient procedure. If your surgery is elective, you have time to compare facilities and ask for a bundled price.
Is gallbladder surgery done as an outpatient procedure?
Laparoscopic removal is typically outpatient — most people go home the same day. If it's converted to open surgery or you're admitted, the cost goes up. A planned procedure can sometimes be done at a cheaper ambulatory surgery center.
Does insurance cover gallbladder removal?
Yes, when it's medically necessary. With insurance you'll owe your deductible and coinsurance rather than the full price. If you're uninsured, ask for the self-pay price and apply for financial assistance on any large bill.
Related
- Gallbladder surgery prices
- Hospital financial assistance
- Why hospital prices vary so much
- Browse all procedures
Prices in this guide are as of June 2026 and link to the live page for current figures. Published data is for comparison, not a quote — always confirm with the hospital. Spotted something off? Submit a correction.