Appendectomy: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Appendectomy?
An appendectomy is surgery to remove the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. A general surgeon usually performs it. That is a doctor trained to operate on the belly and digestive organs. Some surgeons have extra training in laparoscopic surgery, which uses small cuts and a tiny camera instead of one large cut.
What it is
An appendectomy removes the appendix, a thin tube that hangs off the start of the large intestine. People can live healthy lives without it. The surgery can be done through one larger cut, called open surgery, or through several small cuts using a camera, called laparoscopic surgery.
Why a doctor might recommend it
The most common reason is appendicitis, which means the appendix is swollen and infected. It causes pain that often starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right belly, along with nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite. An infected appendix can burst and spread infection, so doctors often recommend surgery quickly.
How to prepare
- Do not eat or drink anything for the hours before surgery.
- Tell the surgical team about all medicines, allergies, and supplements.
- Arrange for an adult to drive you home after surgery.
- Ask the team any questions you have before the operation begins.
What happens during it
You will receive anesthesia so you are asleep and feel nothing. In laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon makes a few small cuts and removes the appendix using a camera and tools. In open surgery, the surgeon makes one larger cut in the lower right belly. The operation usually takes under an hour.
Recovery
Most people go home the same day or the next day. Laparoscopic recovery often takes one to three weeks; open surgery can take four to six weeks. Light walking soon after surgery helps prevent blood clots, and heavy lifting is usually restricted for a few weeks. Follow your surgical team's instructions.
Risks and side effects
Appendectomy is common and generally safe, but risks include infection at the cut sites, bleeding, and injury to nearby organs. Fever, spreading redness, worsening pain, or vomiting should be reported to a doctor right away.
Who performs it
A general surgeon performs the operation, usually in a hospital. An emergency room doctor may diagnose the appendicitis first. Anesthesia is given by an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop when belly pain appears. They can examine you, order tests, and refer you to an emergency room and a general surgeon if they suspect appendicitis. After surgery, they can handle follow up visits and manage your care over time.
Common questions
Can appendicitis be treated without surgery?
Sometimes doctors treat certain mild cases with antibiotics. Surgery is still the most common treatment, and many people treated with antibiotics alone eventually need an appendectomy anyway.
Will I need to stay in the hospital?
Many people go home within a day. If the appendix ruptured, a longer stay may be needed to treat infection with intravenous antibiotics.
Can I live normally without an appendix?
Yes. Losing the appendix has not been found to cause long term health problems. Most people return to normal activities after they heal.
Sources
- American College of Surgeons - For Patients and Family | ACS
- MedlinePlus - Appendectomy: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
