Living Kidney Donor Resources

Find answers to common questions, explore support resources, and learn everything you need to know about living kidney donation and kidney wellness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who can become a living kidney donor?

Most healthy adults between ages 18-70 can potentially donate. You don't need to be related to the recipient or have the same blood type. Our medical team will evaluate your health through comprehensive testing.

How long is the recovery process?

Most donors return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks. You'll typically stay in the hospital for 2-3 days after surgery. Full recovery varies by individual, but most people feel completely back to normal within 2-3 months.

Will I be able to live normally with one kidney?

Yes! People with one healthy kidney can live completely normal, active lives. Your remaining kidney will grow slightly and adapt to filter your blood effectively. You can exercise, travel, and participate in all normal activities.

What are the risks involved?

Living kidney donation is considered safe, but like any surgery, there are risks. These include infection, bleeding, and rare complications. Our medical team will discuss all risks with you in detail during the evaluation process.

Will my insurance cover the costs?

No, you won't have any out-of-pocket expenses. All medical costs related to the donation are covered by the recipient's insurance, including pre-operative testing, surgery, hospitalization, and follow-up care.

How is compatibility determined?

Compatibility is determined through blood type testing, tissue typing (HLA), and crossmatching. Even if you're not a direct match, you may be able to participate in a paired kidney exchange program.

What is the evaluation process like?

The evaluation includes medical history review, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and psychological assessment. The process typically takes several weeks and ensures you're healthy enough to donate safely.

Can I change my mind during the process?

Absolutely. You can withdraw from the donation process at any time, for any reason, without explanation. Your decision will be kept confidential, and there's no pressure to continue if you're not comfortable.

What kind of follow-up care will I receive?

You'll receive comprehensive follow-up care including regular check-ups at 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and then annually for life. This monitoring ensures your remaining kidney is functioning well and your overall health is maintained.

How successful are living donor transplants?

Living donor kidney transplants have excellent success rates - about 98% at one year and 85-90% at five years. Living donor kidneys typically function better and last longer than kidneys from deceased donors.