Recovery, care, and life after kidney transplant
All the care you need after kidney transplant
Receiving a new kidney is the first step toward a new life of more freedom and better health. The kidney transplant team at Penn Medicine is here to take the journey with you. After receiving a transplant with us, you’re part of our transplant family for life.
Recovering after a kidney transplant
Our team has guided thousands of people through recovery after kidney transplant surgery. We know firsthand that expert medical care, emotional support, and access to resources make all the difference, and we’re dedicated to making sure you get everything you need.
The steps of kidney transplant recovery include:
Most people spend three to seven days in the hospital after surgery. We’ll carefully monitor your new kidney and your general health. It may take some time for the new kidney to function properly. During that time, you may need short-term dialysis.
Our family-centered approach means we welcome your family at care team meetings and while you’re in the hospital. We’ll create a detailed recovery plan, so you know exactly what to do and have the resources you need when you go home.
After your surgery, you’ll need to stay near the hospital for several weeks so you can attend follow-up appointments to make sure your new kidney is functioning well. You’ll see your Penn Medicine providers a few times a week at first and then less often as your recovery progresses. We perform frequent tests to check for signs of organ rejection and any other potential complications.
If you receive follow-up care in Philadelphia, you’re welcome to stay at the Clyde F. Barker Penn Transplant House, our homelike, low-cost guest house designed specifically for transplant patients and their families.
You’ll need help with care and daily tasks after you leave the hospital. You won’t be able to drive or lift heavy objects for a few weeks after your transplant. You’ll also be adjusting to your new medications. Most people are able to return to work within about two months after a kidney transplant.
You’ll transition back to the care of your regular kidney specialist three to six months after your transplant, but you’ll have yearly checkups with our team. The Penn Transplant Institute is always available with support and information when you need it.
Managing risks after kidney transplant surgery
All surgeries come with risks and organ transplantation has additional potential complications. We—along with your regular doctors—watch you closely for the rest of your life to lower the risk of complications including:
- Delayed graft function: Sometimes a transplanted kidney doesn’t start working properly right after surgery. It can take up to a few weeks for the kidney to function normally. In the meantime, you’ll have dialysis.
- Infection: The immunosuppressant medication that helps protect your new kidney also leaves you more susceptible to infection. We watch you closely for signs of infection and treat it quickly.
- High blood pressure: High blood pressure after kidney transplant can contribute to delayed graft function and rejection. We check your blood pressure often and offer treatment when needed.
- New-onset diabetes: Immunosuppressant medication can raise the likelihood that you develop Type 2 diabetes after kidney transplant. We monitor your blood sugar to look for signs that this is happening.
What happens if a kidney transplant is rejected?
Rejection of a transplanted organ happens when your body identifies the organ as foreign, and your immune system attacks it. You’ll take immunosuppressant medications for the rest of your life to help prevent rejection and our team monitors for signs of rejection so we can intervene early and reverse it.
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Patient stories
Kidney donation bonds two veterans forever
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