Can a person live without a liver?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Anshul Maheshwari

General Practitioner

MBBS
5+ Yrs

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No, you can not live without a liver. A person can function well on half liver too, moreover, liver can regenerate by itself. It means that even if a person donates half a liver, it will grow back to normal size within few months.

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Answered 04/07/2025

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Living Without a Liver:
- It is not possible to live without a liver as it performs essential functions like detoxification, protein production, and digestion.
Liver Transplant:
- Survival is possible with a liver transplant if the original liver fails.
Recommendation:
- Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on liver health.

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I'm worried because my SGPT levels are high and I've been taking medication like Cirrosam 400, Obeticholic acid, Ursocol 300, and Evion for the past two months. The only one that seems to help is the Obeticholic acid. Interestingly, my lipid profile is normal and I've tested negative for Hepatitis B and C. My blood sugar levels are also within the normal range. On top of this, I've been dealing with hyperuricemia. Can you tell me how long it might take for my SGPT levels to get back to normal?

refer to gastrologist

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Can the liver repair itself?

Liver can regenerate by itself. It means that even if a person donates half a liver, it will grow back to normal size within few months. Liver is very resilinet and can develop new cells, but prolonged alcohol misuse (drinking too much) over many years can reduce its ability to regenerate.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

So, I've noticed my face is getting darker or turning black, and I'm kind of worried. I've been diagnosed with PBC and have been on medication for liver function and taking vitamin tablets for about a month now. Could this change in my skin color be related to the meds or my liver issue? What might be causing this?

Darkening of your face could be related to changes in liver function due to primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), as it can affect skin pigmentation. Medications or vitamin imbalances might also play a role. I recommend discussing this with your doctor to adjust your treatment if needed.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors