How Long Does Liver Transplant Surgery Take For Donor?
Curious about liver donation? Learn how long liver transplant surgery takes for a donor, what the procedure involves, and how recovery works after donating.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef MBBS
Last updated on 23rd Sep, 2025
Introduction
Liver transplant surgery is a life-saving procedure that can give a new lease of life to someone suffering from severe liver disease. If you or a loved one is considering becoming a living liver donor, you may have questions about the surgery, including how long it takes and what to expect. This article will guide you through the process in a simple and compassionate way.
Understanding Liver Transplant for Donors
A living liver donor transplant involves removing a portion of a healthy person’s liver to transplant into someone whose liver is failing. The liver is unique because it can regenerate—meaning both the donor’s and recipient’s livers will grow back to near-normal size within a few months.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Liver Health Advice
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
The liver donor surgery typically takes 6 to 8 hours, though the exact duration can vary based on factors like:
The portion of the liver being donated, usually the right or left lobe.
The donor’s anatomy and overall health.
The surgical team’s experience.
After surgery, donors usually stay in the hospital for 5 to 7 days for recovery and monitoring.
What Happens During Liver Donor Surgery?
The liver donation process is structured in phases to ensure safety and success.
1. Before Surgery
Medical evaluations ensure you are healthy enough to donate.
Blood tests, imaging scans like CT or MRI, and psychological assessments are done.
2. During Surgery
You will be under general anaesthesia and remain fully unconscious.
The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to remove a portion of the liver, usually 40-60% of the organ.
The remaining liver is carefully closed, and the incision is stitched.
3. After Surgery
You’ll be monitored in the ICU for a day or two before moving to a regular room.
Pain management and early movement help in recovery.
Most donors can return to normal activities within 2 to 3 months, but full liver regeneration takes about 6 months.
Recovery Tips for Liver Donors
To ensure a smooth recovery, follow these tips:
Rest well: Avoid heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks.
Eat a balanced diet: Focus on proteins, vitamins, and fluids to help liver regeneration.
Follow-up visits: Regular check-ups ensure your liver is healing properly.
Avoid alcohol: Give your liver time to recover fully.
Risks and Considerations
While liver donation is generally safe, potential risks include:
Bleeding or infection.
Bile leakage, rare but possible.
Temporary fatigue or discomfort.
Most donors recover fully and lead normal, healthy lives afterward.
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your doctor if you experience:
Severe pain or swelling.
Fever or signs of infection.
Yellowing of skin (jaundice).
Final Thoughts
Donating a part of your liver is a noble act that can save a life. The surgery takes 6-8 hours, with a recovery period of a few months. If you’re considering becoming a donor, consult a specialist to understand the process fully.
If you have more questions or wish to schedule a consultation, Apollo24|7 provides expert guidance and support for liver transplant evaluations. Book an appointment today to learn more!
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. Pukhraj Singh Jeji
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD ( Internal Medicine ), DM ( Gastroenterology ), Consultant - Gastroenterology
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr Amey Sonavane
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
11 Years • "MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) DNB (Gastroenterology) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
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. Pukhraj Singh Jeji
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD ( Internal Medicine ), DM ( Gastroenterology ), Consultant - Gastroenterology
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr Amey Sonavane
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
11 Years • "MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) DNB (Gastroenterology) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
