Can liver function recover after liver resection?

Sep 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, whether liver function can recover after hepatic resection depends on the specific clinical condition. The liver has a strong regenerative capacity, but the extent of recovery depends on factors such as the extent of resection, the health status of the remaining liver tissue, and the patient's overall condition. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. After surgery, patients must strictly follow medical advice to take hepatoprotective medications and avoid drugs that may harm the liver.

Generally, whether liver function can recover after hepatectomy depends on the specific clinical situation. The liver has a strong regenerative capacity, but the extent of recovery depends on factors such as the extent of resection, the health status of the remaining liver tissue, and the patient's overall condition. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. A detailed analysis is as follows:

If the resected portion is small, the remaining liver tissue shows no severe lesions such as liver cirrhosis or inflammation, and the patient is relatively young without chronic liver disease or other underlying conditions, liver function usually recovers well. The liver’s regenerative ability can be fully utilized, with gradual compensation by the remaining liver tissue. Within several weeks to months after surgery, liver function indicators such as bilirubin and albumin gradually return to normal levels, metabolic functions recover to preoperative levels, and daily life is minimally affected.

If a large portion is resected, the remaining liver tissue has severe cirrhosis, fibrosis, or chronic inflammation, or the patient is older and suffers from underlying conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, liver function recovery becomes more difficult. The compensatory capacity of the remaining liver tissue is insufficient, potentially leading to persistent jaundice, ascites, or coagulation disorders. In some patients, liver function may not return to normal and long-term treatment and monitoring are required to maintain basic liver function.

After surgery, it is essential to strictly follow medical advice regarding hepatoprotective medications and avoid drugs that may harm the liver. Diet should be light and easily digestible, avoiding high-fat and high-sugar foods that increase the liver’s burden. Regular follow-up tests—including liver function tests and liver imaging—are necessary to monitor recovery progress. Maintaining a regular lifestyle and avoiding excessive fatigue will provide favorable conditions for liver regeneration.

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