Kidney Transplant Donor Recovery

A kidney transplant occurs when the donor has one healthy kidney removed to be given to an individual who suffers from impaired kidney function. Recovery time is needed for the donor as well as the kidney transplant recipient.

Hospital Stay

• The donor's stay in the hospital depends on a variety of factors such as the type of surgery and individual rate of recovery. According to Medical Moment, a laparoscopic surgery involves a shorter hospital stay and a quicker recovery than traditional surgery. According to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), the donor will spend approximately four to six days in the hospital.

Abdominal Effects

• After surgery, it’s common to experience gas pain and bloating, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Incision

• The donor will experience itching, tenderness and pain at the incision site after leaving the hospital. These symptoms will subside as the incision heals.

Activity After Surgery

• Donors are instructed to avoid heavy lifting for two months. They must also avoid contact sports such as boxing, mixed martial arts, wrestling, football and field hockey.

Medical Follow-Up

• According to NKF, donors should have long-term medical follow-up appointments with their doctor. This includes a yearly urine test and blood pressure check.