a new lease on life

Kidney transplant

From evaluation and finding a donor to surgery and recovery to caring for your new kidney and beyond, our staff are with you every step of the way on your transition to healthy living.

Kidney transplant at a glance

When you are faced with kidney failure, you either need dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant to replace the functioning of your own kidneys.

A successful kidney transplant can give you a better quality of life than dialysis treatment, but it comes with risks – your body could reject your new kidney, and you could experience side effects from medication and a higher risk of infection.

Your transplant journey

Learn about kidney transplants

Find out as much as possible about the transplant process including the waiting list, surgery, medication and resources available to you after the transplant.

Get a transplant evaluation

You need to have your health evaluated to determine if you qualify as a suitable kidney transplant candidate, and also if you face the risk of organ rejection.

Get on the transplant waiting list

Your doctor will motivate your case to a renal transplant panel once you have met the prerequisites. This is the last major step to undergoing a transplant.

Things to consider

What makes a good kidney transplant candidate?

A kidney transplant is a major procedure, and you need to be healthy to get through it in the best possible way. If you take ownership and are actively involved in your treatment, you will prove to the transplant team that you are a suitable patient who shows healthy choices and behaviours.

Kidney donation

How can I ask someone to be my donor?

Share your story

Explain what chronic kidney disease is like for you. Your family and friends may be unaware or don’t understand the full extent of your struggles with kidney disease.

Find an advocate

Whether it’s a loved one, friend or co-worker an advocate is someone who you trust and can lend a hand when you need it most. Your advocate can be your voice of reason and the catalyst between you and a kidney transplant.

Spread the word

It may take some time and resources to find the right living donor, so cast the net far and wide to reach as many people as possible about your needs.

Engage your potential donors

It is important to help potential donors understand how they will be involved, thank them for their support and let them know your relationship will not change if he or she isn’t a match. Keeping an open and positive dialogue with your donors will help contribute to a better transplant process.

Preparing for surgery

A kidney transplant is a major procedure and can be overwhelming just thinking about it. Planning ahead for your surgery can help you focus on improving your health, instead of worrying about the procedure.

Download the relevant checklist below:

Transplant checklist

Caregiver checklist

Parent checklist

Things to consider

Make a list of important contact numbers and share it with your family. Include the names and numbers of your healthcare team and caregivers.

Record important information about finances and tell your caregiver where you will keep this information.

Ask your bank about your financial obligations, so your caregiver can handle transactions on your behalf should you need to pay any fees.

Plan for how your medical bills will be paid while you’re in hospital and during recovery.

Ask your caregiver or family for support with household tasks and other duties.

The surgery process

Our renal transplant team is ready and waiting to support and care for you throughout the surgery process. From the moment you are admitted to hospital until you are discharged and take your first steps on your new, healthier life journey, everyone involved in your transplant has your health and well-being at heart.

What to expect from surgery

Most transplants are successful and last for many years. The procedure takes about four hours, after which you will be admitted to ICU. Your kidney should start to work from the get-go. If not, you may need dialysis treatment to kick-start your kidney.

Recovering from surgery

Recovery after surgery differs between patients. You will experience pain but you should be on your feet in a day and at home within a week. An expert care team will be by your side to monitor the functioning of your new kidney.

Taking care of your new kidney

Living with your new kidney may take some getting used to, for you and your body. You will need to consume lots of fluids and nutritional meals. Take medication as prescribed and avoid food and drugs that could damage your new kidney.

What you need to know

Coping with emotions on the transplant journey

Living with your new kidney can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. Understand the different emotions you could experience after kidney transplant surgery, and how you can find ways to cope with them mentally.

kidney transplant

Find a clinic near you

With over 71 dedicated dialysis units and a presence in every major metro across the country, you’re never far from the support you need.

Here to help you

Whether you are a patient, a family member or a caregiver, we work closely with you to guide you through the treatment journey – from understanding the condition, treatment options and dietary changes. Get the care and information you need by reaching out to us.