Frequently Asked Questions

A donated kidney may come from someone who died and donated a healthy kidney, called a deceased donor. Donated kidneys also can come from a living donor. This person may be a blood relative (like a brother or sister) or non-blood relative (like a husband or wife). They can also come from a friend or even a stranger

Rejection is one of the most important complications that may occur after receiving a transplant. Since you were not born with your transplanted kidney, your body will think the new kidney is “foreign” and will try to protect you by “attacking” it.

Increased risk of infection due to the immunosuppressant medications

During the early stages after a transplant, while you're on higher doses of immunosuppressant medicine, you should avoid eating foods that carry a high risk of food poisoning, including: unpasteurised cheese, milk or yoghurt. Foods containing raw eggs (such as mayonnaise) undercooked or raw meats, fish and shellfish.

The new kidney is placed in the lower abdomen and groin area and not in the natural place for your kidneys. Removing the old kidneys can be risky and is not required unless there is uncontrolled infection, high blood pressure, or the kidneys are markedly enlarged such as with polycystic kidney disease (PKD).

The new kidney is placed in the lower abdomen and groin area and not in the natural place for your kidneys. Removing the old kidneys can be risky and is not required unless there is uncontrolled infection, high blood pressure, or the kidneys are markedly enlarged such as with polycystic kidney disease (PKD).

Once you are home from the hospital, the most important work begins—the follow-up. For your transplant to be successful, you will have regular check-ups, especially during the first year. At first, you may need blood tests several times a week, then once a week, then less often. As times passes, if you are doing well, you’ll need fewer check-ups, but enough to make sure that your kidney is working well and that you have the right amount of anti-rejection medication in your body.

How soon you can return to work depends on your recovery, the kind of work you do, and you’re other medical conditions. Many people can return to work eight weeks or more after their transplant, but sometimes it can be sooner or later. Your transplant team will help you decide when you can go back to work.

In general, transplant recipients should eat a heart-healthy diet (low fat, low salt) and drink plenty of fluids. If you have diabetes or other health problems, you may still have some dietary restrictions. A dietitian can help you plan meals that are right for you.

You should learn as much as you can by reading and talking to your healthcare team, as well as patients who already have kidney transplants.