I have been struggling with sharp pains under my ribs for months now, and my GP has finally confirmed it is gallstones. I am currently stuck on a long waiting list for surgery and the attacks are becoming more frequent, especially after I eat anything even slightly fatty. It feels like I am living on a diet of plain toast and water just to avoid the pain while I wait for my operation date to come through. For those of you who have already had your gallbladder removed or are further along in the process, how long did you actually have to wait between your diagnosis and the surgery? I would love to know how you managed the pain during that time or if you found any specific tricks to keep the attacks at bay.