A liver transplant is a surgical procedure performed to replace a diseased liver with a healthy liver from either a deceased or a living donor. Family members or individuals who are unrelated but make a good match may be able to donate a portion of their liver. This type of liver transplant is called a living donor liver transplant. Individuals who donate a portion of their liver can live healthy lives with the remaining liver.

An entire liver may be transplanted, or just a section. Because the liver is the only organ in the body able to regenerate, a transplanted portion of a liver can rebuild to normal capacity within weeks.

As one of the largest and most complex organs in your body, the liver plays an essential role in your quality of life. Liver transplantation may give you better quality of life and help you live longer. However, it's important that you are aware of the complications related to major surgery, organ rejection, and possible side effects from the medications you'll need to take after a liver transplant surgery. At Stanford Health Care's Liver Transplant Program, we are committed to the comprehensive and lifelong care of your liver illness.