How many years can one live after a kidney transplant?

The survival period after kidney transplantation is influenced by multiple factors, including the quality of the donor kidney, the recipient's overall health status, the effectiveness of immunosuppressive therapy, and postoperative lifestyle and health management. Most patients can survive for ten to twenty years, or even longer, after kidney transplantation. When the transplanted kidney is well-matched to the recipient, the surgery is successful, and there are no significant rejection episodes post-transplant, patients may survive for 30 to 50 years.

However, kidney transplantation is not a permanent solution in all cases. The function of the transplanted kidney may gradually decline over time, and some patients may require re-transplantation or a return to dialysis treatment. Therefore, regular postoperative monitoring of kidney function, adherence to medical advice, and appropriate medication use are beneficial for prolonging the lifespan of the transplanted kidney and improving quality of life. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and avoiding excessive fatigue, can also help extend survival. If any physical discomfort arises, prompt medical attention should be sought.