How Long Does A Liver Transplant Last In Adults?
Wondering how long a liver transplant lasts in adults? Learn about average survival rates, factors that influence longevity, and how to care for your transplanted liver for a healthy future.
Written by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 21st Jul, 2025
Introduction
A liver transplant is a life-saving procedure for adults with severe liver disease or failure. If you or a loved one is considering or has undergone a liver transplant, you might wonder: How long does a transplanted liver last? The good news is that liver transplants have a high success rate, and many recipients live long, healthy lives with proper care.
How Long Does a Transplanted Liver Last?
On average, a liver transplant can last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on various factors. According to medical studies:
- 1-year survival rate: Around 90% of patients
- 5-year survival rate: About 70-80%
- 10-year survival rate: Approximately 60-70%
Some patients live with a transplanted liver for 30 years or more, especially if they follow medical advice and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Liver Health Advice
Factors That Affect Liver Transplant Longevity
Several factors influence how long a transplanted liver functions well:
1. Underlying Health Condition
Patients with conditions like hepatitis C (now curable) or alcohol-related liver disease—if they abstain from alcohol—tend to do well.
Autoimmune diseases like primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) or primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) may affect long-term outcomes.
2. Age and Overall Health
- Younger patients, under 60, generally have better outcomes.
- Those with well-managed conditions like diabetes or heart disease recover better.
3. Surgical Success
A smooth surgery with minimal complications improves long-term success.
4. Medication Adherence
- Immunosuppressants (anti-rejection drugs) must be taken lifelong to prevent organ rejection.
- Missing doses can lead to rejection, reducing the liver’s lifespan.
5. Lifestyle Choices
- Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and unhealthy diets helps the liver stay healthy.
- Regular exercise and a balanced diet improve overall health.
6. Follow-Up Care
Regular check-ups with your transplant team help detect issues early.
How to Take Care of Your Transplanted Liver
To maximise the lifespan of your new liver, follow these tips:
1. Take Medications as Prescribed
- Never skip or adjust doses without consulting your doctor.
- Report any side effects like infections or high blood sugar immediately.
2. Maintain a Healthy Diet
- Eat lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Avoid processed foods, excessive salt, and sugar.
- Stay hydrated.
3. Exercise Regularly
Light to moderate exercise, like walking or yoga, helps maintain weight and heart health.
4. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
- Alcohol can damage the liver, even after a transplant.
- Smoking increases infection risks.
5. Monitor for Signs of Rejection
Symptoms of liver rejection include:
- Fatigue
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Report these to your doctor immediately.
When to Seek Medical Help
- Contact your transplant team if you experience:
- Fever or chills
- Sudden weight gain or swelling
- Persistent nausea/vomiting
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
Can You Get a Second Liver Transplant?
Yes, a second liver transplant may be considered if the first transplant fails. However, these are more complex and carry increased risks. Eligibility depends on overall health, cause of failure, and donor availability.
Final Thoughts
A liver transplant can significantly extend and improve life for adults with liver failure. With proper care, many recipients enjoy decades of healthy living. The key is strict medication adherence, a healthy lifestyle, and regular medical follow-ups.
If you or a loved one needs expert advice on liver health, consider consulting a specialist. You can book a consultation or schedule a liver function test through Apollo 24|7 for personalised care.
Consult Top Hepatologists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Liver Health Advice
Dr. Srinivasa Reddy
Hepatologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Hepatology),ASGE
Hyderabad
Myra Liver & Gastro Care, Hyderabad
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Sushith C
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Akshatha Manjunath
General Surgeon
8 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Consult Top Hepatologists
Dr. Srinivasa Reddy
Hepatologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Hepatology),ASGE
Hyderabad
Myra Liver & Gastro Care, Hyderabad
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Sushith C
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Akshatha Manjunath
General Surgeon
8 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
