If some of the liver is removed will it grow back?

The liver has an amazing capacity to regenerate, so if a portion of it is removed, the remaining tissue will grow and compensate, restoring the liver to its original size and function. This process is known as liver regeneration.

Following liver resection (surgical removal of a liver segment), the remaining healthy liver tissue undergoes hyperplasia (enlargement of existing liver cells) and hypertrophy (increase in the size of individual liver cells). This response is triggered by growth factors released at the site of injury and the increased demand on the remaining liver tissue to perform essential functions.

The regeneration process is highly coordinated and involves various cellular and molecular mechanisms. The liver cells (hepatocytes) play a central role in regeneration. After the liver surgery, hepatocytes near the resection site start to proliferate rapidly. This process is facilitated by growth factors, cytokines, and other signaling molecules produced in response to the injury.

As hepatocytes multiply, they form new liver tissue and bile ducts. The new tissue gradually fills the space left by the removed liver segment. The regenerated liver tissue has a similar structure and function to the original liver, allowing it to perform its vital tasks, such as metabolism, detoxification, protein synthesis, and bile production.

Liver regeneration is a remarkable example of the body's ability to self-heal and repair damaged tissue. The regeneration process usually takes several weeks to months, depending on the extent of liver removal. In most cases, the liver can regenerate to its original size and function, enabling individuals to lead healthy lives post-surgery.