Recovery and Follow-Up
During the first three weeks after surgery, the donor should not drive and must avoid heavy lifting. Within three to six weeks after surgery, the donor may resume driving and return to work, depending on the physical requirements of the job.
For those donors having the laparoscopic technique, full recovery takes about three to four weeks. For donors having the open technique, full recovery takes about six to 10 weeks. The donor commonly experiences some pain or a nagging ache that diminishes over time.
In all cases, the donor is required to spend seven to 14 days in the local area after the surgery. During this time, the donor will have at least one outpatient clinic appointment to check surgical healing and to assess kidney function.
Long-term follow-up after kidney donation
A few weeks after surgery, the donor’s remaining kidney will have increased in size and will be doing the work of two kidneys. A kidney donor is expected to have a normal quality of life and life expectancy. Like all other healthy persons, a donor should have a yearly blood pressure check and periodic evaluation of kidney function (a urinalysis and blood tests) every one to two years. These tests are part of any routine physical examination, and the donor’s regular physician can perform them.
Contact Information
Transplant Program
1101 MadisonFirst Hill Campus, Suite 200
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-386-3660 or 1-800-99ORGAN (1-800-996-7426)
Fax: 206-386-3644
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Map & Directions
Transplant Physicians
Find a PhysicianLiving Kidney Donor Seminar - Idaho
Wednesday, May 23rd
6:30-8:15 pm
Boise, ID
Thursday, May 24th
6:30-8:15 pm
Meridian, ID
Please RSVP to Dwayne Biles at 206-215-2913.
Download the flyer for more information and locations.
Give the Gift of Life
Visit Donate Life and become an organ donor today.
