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Home > Liver Transplant (Living Donor)

Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Sylesh Aikot, Surgical Gastroenterologist,Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode

A living donor liver transplant (LDLT) is a procedure in which a healthy person donates a portion of their liver to someone with severe liver disease. Because the liver can regenerate itself, both the donor’s and recipient’s livers grow back to near normal size within weeks to months. LDLT reduces waiting time for patients and offers excellent outcomes.

What is a living donor liver transplant?

It is a surgery where a portion of the liver (usually the right lobe) from a healthy living donor is transplanted into the recipient. Both the donor and recipient’s livers regenerate and resume normal function.

Who can donate part of their liver?

A donor must be:

  • A healthy adult between 18–60 years
  • Blood group–compatible with the recipient
  • Free of liver disease, chronic illnesses, or major medical conditions
  • Willing to undergo medical and psychological evaluation
  • Donors are often close relatives, but unrelated donors may also be considered under strict guidelines.
Is liver donation safe for the donor?

Yes. Living liver donation is generally safe, with very low risk when performed in specialized centers. The liver regenerates within 6–8 weeks. Donors usually return to normal life within 6–12 weeks. Risks include infection, bleeding, or bile leakage, but these are uncommon.

What are the advantages of living donor liver transplant?
  • Reduces waiting time for patients who cannot afford delays
  • Planned surgery rather than waiting for a deceased donor
  • Better long-term outcomes in many cases
  • Helps save lives of patients with urgent or advanced liver disease
What is the success rate of living donor liver transplant?

LDLT has excellent results:

  • 1-year survival: over 90%
  • 5-year survival: about 75–85%

Success depends on recipient’s condition, surgical expertise, and post-transplant care.

How long is recovery after living donor liver transplant?
  • For donors: Most return to work in 6–12 weeks, with full recovery within a few months.
  • For recipients: Hospital stay is usually 2–3 weeks, with gradual return to normal activities in 3–6 months. Lifelong medications (immunosuppressants) are required.
What lifestyle changes are needed after liver transplant?

Recipients must:

  • Take prescribed immunosuppressants lifelong
  • Eat a balanced, liver-friendly diet
  • Avoid alcohol completely
  • Maintain proper hygiene and vaccinations
  • Keep up with regular follow-ups
Connect with Our Experts Today

If you or a loved one is suffering from end-stage liver disease or liver failure, the Liver Transplant Program at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced living donor liver transplantation with expert surgical teams, safe donor evaluation, and comprehensive lifelong follow-up for both donor and recipient.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our liver transplant specialists.

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