If a patient has reached the end stage of kidney disease and a donor organ is available, doctors are able to replace the  damaged kidney with a donor organ. This is an intense surgical procedure that requires many consultation visits and many postoperative care appointments. Although it's an intense process, it is  life-saving for most.

Before a kidney transplant, it is important you talk to your doctor about your lifestyle habits including smoking habits and activity level. 

After your kidney transplant is performed, you will be monitored by your doctor for signs of organ rejection. You will also be monitored for several days in the hospital, then released to your own home or care facility. It is important that you take your medications, check the incision site and attend your follow-up appointments.

After a successful kidney transplant, you will have more flexibility in what you eat and where you can travel. The best benefit of all is a better quality of life.