Championing Transplant Success For Every Patient
Advocating, coordinating, and caring — every step toward a new kidney and a better life.
Transplant remains the best option for treatment of kidney failure, not only for the patient but also for our society as it is also the most cost-effective. The team at Home Dialysis Therapies of San Diego advocates strongly for our patients to receive a transplant, fervently encouraging our patients to complete the work-up or pestering the transplant programs across the country to move faster.
Our social workers communicate with the various transplant programs on a weekly basis. Donation from a living donor either related or unrelated to the patient is optimal, but not everybody is so fortunate. Deceased donor transplantation remains an option for many, but the shortage of kidneys and long wait times remains prohibitive.
Promotion of transplant remains a part of the mission at Home Dialysis Therapies of San Diego, and we are proud that we are three times the national average in patients listed for transplant and that currently 43% of our patients under the age of 70 are on the transplant waiting list compared to just 25% nationally. By prioritizing education and guidance, we empower patients to explore transplantation as a pathway to improved health and a more fulfilling life.
While many dialysis patients are not eligible for transplant due to advanced age or other medical problems, our job mission has always been to keep those patients healthy and functional as long as possible and, for those awaiting a kidney transplant, to do everything in our power to move things alone as fast as possible and keep them active on the waiting list.
Kidney Transplant FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Transplant Overview
How long does a kidney transplant surgery take?
A typical kidney transplant surgery lasts 3 to 5 hours. Recovery in the hospital usually takes 4 to 7 days , depending on your overall health and whether the kidney came from a living or deceased donor.
How long does a kidney transplant last?
On average, a kidney from a living donor lasts 15–20 years , while one from a deceased donor lasts 10–15 years . Outcomes vary based on your age, overall health, and how closely the donor kidney matches your body.
Eligibility and Preparation
What can I do to increase my chances of getting a kidney transplant?
What disqualifies you from getting a kidney transplant?
Factors that may make someone ineligible include:
Each case is reviewed individually. Some conditions may delay rather than permanently prevent your eligibility. At Home Dialysis Therapies of San Diego, your dedicated social worker and nephrologist will give you a better understanding of how to maximize your chances of a transplantation.
Costs and Advancements
How much does a kidney transplant cost?
The average cost of a kidney transplant in the U.S. is over $400,000 , including surgery, hospitalization, and the first year of medications. Insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance) often covers a significant portion, but out-of-pocket costs vary.
What are some advancements in kidney transplantation?
Risks and Considerations
What are the risks of a kidney transplant?
General risks include infection, bleeding, or anesthesia complications. Specific transplant risks include:
Transplant Process
How does the kidney transplant waiting list work?
If no living donor is available, patients are placed on the national waiting list managed by OPTN. Wait times depend on blood type, tissue match, and geography — often several years.
Can I list at multiple kidney transplant centers?
Yes. Multiple listing can improve your chances by accessing different donor pools. The tradeoffs include travel, extra evaluations, and costs.
How do I find a kidney transplant center?
Support and Advocacy
What role do social workers play in the transplant process?
Our social workers guide patients through insurance, eligibility, and emotional preparation. Unlike large dialysis organizations (with ~120 patients per social worker), Home Dialysis Therapies of San Diego maintains a 66:1 ratio, ensuring more personalized support and advocacy.
Donors and Matching
Can a family member donate a kidney to me?
Yes. Related donors often provide the best match. If not a match, paired exchange programs can enable indirect donation.
Does blood type matter?
Yes. Blood type is key in matching donors and recipients. Type O patients often wait longer, though incompatible transplants are now possible through advanced desensitization protocols.
Life After Transplant
What is life like after a kidney transplant?
Most patients experience renewed energy, no longer need dialysis, and return to normal routines. Lifelong anti-rejection medications and regular follow-ups are essential.
Will I still need home dialysis after a kidney transplant?
No — once your new kidney functions, dialysis stops. Rarely, temporary dialysis may be needed until the kidney begins working fully.
Will I still need to see a kidney doctor after my transplant?
Yes. You’ll continue seeing your nephrologist for lab monitoring and medication management. Visits are frequent initially and less so over time but remain lifelong.
Do I need a special diet after a kidney transplant?
Yes, but it's more flexible than a dialysis diet:
Are there exercise restrictions after transplant?
Light walking is encouraged early on. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting until cleared by your doctor. Our team helps patients safely return to normal routines.
Timeline and Donation
What is the timeline of a kidney transplant?
How can I become a kidney donor?
Living donation: Healthy adults can apply through a transplant center and undergo evaluations. Deceased donation: Register when renewing your driver’s license or via Donate Life America .
