<![CDATA[Happy Liver Society Copy - Blog]]>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:35:04 -0700EditMySite<![CDATA[How does Living Liver Donation work?]]>Sat, 26 Oct 2024 21:18:29 GMThttps://www.happyliversociety.org/blog/how-does-living-liver-donation-workLiving liver organ donation is an act of altruism that reduces the wait time for patients in need of a life-saving liver.
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What is living donor liver transplantation?

Living donor liver transplantation occurs when a healthy individual donates a portion of their liver to a person with end-stage liver disease. The donor’s remaining liver regenerates and within 4–8 weeks after the surgery the remaining liver grows back.
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Is it safe?

Living donor liver transplant has existed since 1989. Since then, thousands of transplants have occurred. The chance of dying from donating a liver is between 1 in 500 and 1 in 1000 (0.1 to 0.2%). In comparison, the chance of dying from donating a kidney is 3 in 10,000 (0.03%).

Who can be a living donor?

A living donor can be a relative, spouse or friend.
In addition, donors must:
  • blood type compatible with the recipient
  • between the ages of 19 and 55
  • in good health and good physical condition, with a healthy weight
  • free from coercion or pressure to donate​
What would disqualify someone from becoming a donor?
  • a history of active hepatitis B or C
  • HIV infection
  • Current alcohol use disorder
  • Current substance use disorder
  • a recent history of cancer (individuals with some skin cancers may proceed)
  • a significant medical condition such as heart disease, kidney disease or diabetes
Find out more about the Living Liver Donor Program here.
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