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Living Kidney Donation

A healthy person may be able to donate one kidney to someone in need after completing the required medical assessments.

Kidney Donation Guide

Choosing to become a living kidney donor is a major personal decision. Understanding the evaluation, surgery, recovery, possible risks and long-term follow-up can help you make an informed decision with your transplant team.

Kidney Donation FAQ

Considering kidney donation? Find answers to common questions about living donation, donor assessment, surgery, recovery, compatibility and life after donation.

What is living kidney donation?

Living kidney donation is when a healthy person donates one of their kidneys to someone who needs a kidney transplant. A person can generally live with one healthy kidney, but every potential donor must undergo a detailed medical assessment before donation can be considered.

Who can become a kidney donor?

Not everyone who wants to donate will be medically suitable. Potential donors are assessed individually. Factors such as overall health, kidney function, medical history, blood pressure and other health conditions may be considered by the transplant team.

Can I donate a kidney to a family member?

Potentially. Living kidney donation may be possible between relatives, partners, friends or other suitable donors. The donor and recipient must undergo the appropriate medical and compatibility assessments.

Can I donate to someone I do not know?

In some donation systems, non-directed living donation may be possible. The rules and requirements vary by country and transplant programme. Speak with an authorized transplant centre to understand the options available to you.

What tests are required before donating a kidney?

The evaluation can include blood tests, urine tests, blood pressure measurements, kidney-function tests, imaging scans and other medical assessments. Potential donors may also receive psychological or social evaluation as part of the donation process.

What happens if I am not a match?

If a donor is not directly compatible with the intended recipient, the transplant team may discuss other options. Depending on the country and programme, kidney paired donation may be one possible option.

How is kidney donation surgery performed?

Kidney removal from a living donor is performed by a specialist surgical team. Many transplant centres use minimally invasive or keyhole surgical techniques, although the exact procedure depends on the donor and the transplant centre.

How long does recovery take after kidney donation?

Recovery varies from person to person and depends on the surgical approach, general health and individual circumstances. Your transplant team will provide personalized instructions about returning to normal activities, work and exercise.

Can I live normally with one kidney?

Many people live healthy and active lives with one functioning kidney. However, living donation is a major medical decision and requires appropriate medical assessment and long-term follow-up.

What are the risks of donating a kidney?

Kidney donation is major surgery and, like other operations, carries potential risks. These can include surgical complications, infection, pain and other medical risks. Your transplant team should explain the risks and benefits based on your individual health.

Will I need medical follow-up after donating?

Yes. Follow-up care is an important part of living kidney donation. Your transplant team will provide guidance about monitoring your health and kidney function after donation.

Can I change my mind about donating?

A potential donor should only proceed voluntarily and after receiving appropriate information and support. If you have concerns or no longer wish to donate, speak privately with your donor coordinator or transplant team.

Does this site decide whether I can donate?

No. Donor eligibility must be determined by an appropriately qualified transplant medical team. This site provides information and helps people understand the donation journey, but medical decisions must be made by qualified healthcare professionals.

How can I start the kidney donation process?

Start by speaking with an authorized transplant centre or living donor coordinator. They can explain the process, eligibility requirements, medical assessment and next steps for your situation.