Jaundice after years of gallstones is serious and can lead to liver damage if left untreated. Just gallstones do not usually cause jaundice. Obstructive jaundice can occur if gallstones cause bile duct stones and cholangitis secondary to gallstones. Gallstones can also cause jaundice in the bile ducts, liver and other areas of the body, all of which are very serious. The condition of jaundice, which occurs when gallstones are accompanied by many years of jaundice, if left untreated, can lead to damage to liver cells, pus and perforation of the gallbladder, and possibly gangrene of the gallbladder, all of which are serious and difficult to treat, and can even be life-threatening. If jaundice occurs on the basis of having gallstones, which is more serious, you must go to the hospital for examination and treatment in time to avoid unnecessary consequences.