About a Living Donor

The Benefits of a living donor:

• Kidneys from living donors typically function longer and more effectively than those from deceased donors.

• Instead of waiting years on the transplant list, recipients with a living donor can receive a kidney much sooner, sometimes within months.

• The transplant can be planned in advance, reducing the need for emergency surgery and allowing the recipient to be in their best possible health before surgery.

• No (or Delayed) Dialysis

  • If the transplant is done before dialysis is needed, it’s called a preemptive transplant, which leads to better long-term health outcomes and quality of life

• Lower Risk of Rejection

  • Living donor transplants are often more compatible, especially if the donor is a relative.

  • The kidney starts working immediately after transplant in most cases, reducing complications.

• Improved Quality of Life

  • Energy levels, appetite, mental clarity, and freedom from dialysis significantly improve post-transplant.