If you are considering becoming a living organ donor, you may have questions. Although most living donors are relatives or friends of the recipient, this is not a requirement. Individuals can be evaluated as altruistic or anonymous living donors to match with anyone in need, based on body size and blood type. 

Donate your kidney     Donate your liver

With the living donation of a kidney, one kidney is taken from a donor and given to a recipient. Living liver donation is when a healthy person donates a portion of their liver to someone waiting for a liver transplant. There are many benefits to living organ donation, including shorter wait times, a lowered risk of rejection and a greater chance for a successful outcome.

What can I expect with living organ donation?

You will participate in an extensive evaluation to ensure you are healthy and at minimal risk for complications. Living donors should generally be at least 19 years old and healthy with normal kidney or liver function.

Surgery usually lasts approximately four to six hours. If at any point your surgeon is concerned about your condition, the surgery will be stopped. Your safety is our primary concern. Most living donors are hospitalized for five to seven days after surgery. They will continue to recover at home for four to six weeks after surgery. 

Why you should choose Nebraska Medicine

As the only living donor facility in Nebraska, we offer follow-up information six months, one year and two years after donation, including lab work, clinic visits and more. When the care required needs the most innovative, cutting-edge and unique services available, Nebraska is the place to be. Learn more about our world-renowned transplant program.
 

  • Why become a living donor?

    Learn more about becoming an organ donor and what is involved in the process.

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Visit the National Living Donor Assistance Center (NLDAC) to reduce the financial disincentives to living organ donation. 

Have questions? We're here to help.

Contact us to make an appointment

800.401.4444