Kidney donation and transplant
Kidneys are the most needed organ in the United States. There are over 100,000 people on the national transplant waiting list, and around 92,000 are waiting for a kidney. Whether you need a transplant or are considering donating a kidney to someone in need, this page will guide you through what to expect, from evaluation and surgery to life after transplant.
Types of kidney donation
A kidney transplant can come from a deceased donor (someone who has recently died) or a living donor. While living donor kidney transplants often have better outcomes and shorter wait times, both types of transplants can help people live longer, healthier lives.
Living donor
- If you have a living donor, your transplant may happen sooner than waiting for a kidney from a deceased donor. The timing depends on whether you and your donor are medically cleared for surgery and whether the kidney is a good match.
- Living kidney donor transplants often last 15 to 20 years
- The transplant surgery is planned, giving both the donor and recipient time to prepare
Deceased donor
- The average wait time for a transplant from a deceased donor is 3 to 5 years
- Deceased donor kidney transplants last about 10 to 15 years on average
- Surgery is not planned in advance and may be scheduled quickly when a kidney becomes available
Stages of becoming a transplant recipient
A kidney transplant is a life-changing treatment for people with kidney failure, also known as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). These resources will guide you through every stage of the kidney transplant process.
Prepare for a transplant
Before you can get a kidney transplant, you will need a full health evaluation by a transplant team. Learn what to expect from the evaluation process, how to find a transplant center and how to prepare for surgery.
Learn about the waiting list
The national transplant waiting list includes everyone in the United States who needs an organ transplant and is waiting to be matched with an organ from a deceased donor. Learn how the waiting list works, how long the wait typically is and ways to stay healthy while you wait.
Life after transplant and long-term management
Learn what to expect during recovery, how anti-rejection medicines work, and how to take care of your new kidney for the long term. Get tips on healthy living and mental health support.
Removing barriers to kidney transplants
Racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to develop kidney failure and face greater barriers to getting a transplant. AKF's Kidney Health for All initiative can help you understand how factors like access to care, waitlist delays, donor availability, and cost can impact your journey.
Kidney transplant in children
A kidney transplant is considered the best treatment option for children with kidney failure. Learn about the evaluation process, types of donor kidneys, surgery, and what life may look like for your child after transplant.
Free interactive education course
Learn more about the transplant journey
This interactive course will guide you through the process – from talking to your doctor and getting an evaluation to having transplant surgery and navigating your recovery.
Kidney transplant guides and resources
Getting a kidney transplant can bring up many questions, whether you are preparing for surgery or learning how to care for your new kidney after transplant. AKF's transplant guides can help you understand the process, know what to expect and feel more prepared at each stage of the transplant journey.
I'm interested in becoming a living donor
Becoming a living kidney donor starts with a thorough medical evaluation to make sure donation is safe for you. Your doctor or your kidney recipient's (the person who gets your kidney) doctor may recommend a transplant center.
Living kidney donation is a personal decision that involves medical, emotional and lifestyle considerations. You'll work with a dedicated donor evaluation team to review your overall health, support system and readiness to donate before moving forward.
Risks and surgery
Living kidney donation is generally safe, but it is still a major surgery. Short-term risks may include pain or fatigue, and donors typically experience a permanent reduction in kidney function, although most continue to live healthy lives with just one kidney. You may also need to take some time away from work or your usual daily activities. Transplant teams carefully evaluate donors and monitor recovery to protect long-term health.
Financial information and how AKF can help
Medicare or the kidney recipient's private insurance typically covers the medical costs of donor testing, transplant surgery and related hospital care for both the kidney donor and recipient. Learn about what costs may not be covered and what programs are available to help with expenses like travel, lost wages and medicines after transplant. AKF's Living Donor Support Program
Your story can inspire hope
Have you or a loved one been part of a kidney donation or transplant journey? Share your experience to help others considering transplant know that they’re not alone.
Make More Transplants Possible
Every day, 13 people die waiting for a kidney transplant. With your help, we can change that.
AKF powers more transplants than any other kidney nonprofit — making 133 transplants possible every month. Give any amount to help patients cover the costs of care, support living donors and fuel policy changes to shorten the waitlist. Together, we can save more lives.
Make More Transplants Possible
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