The human liver is responsible for removing toxic waste products from the blood, and the creation of important digestive enzymes. After a liver transplant, life may be different, but it is a second chance.
Pain
According to the Columbia University Medical Center in New York, the pain after a liver transplant surgery is primarily found in the back. The abdominal nerves are severed during surgery, so as they heal and regain sensation, they do so at a comfortable pace. The back pain is from the amount of time spent lying on the surgical table during surgery. Pain medication is prescribed to help.
Blood Testing
The liver plays an important role in the creation of healthy blood. To make sure the new liver is functioning properly, blood tests are taken twice a week during the first three months after surgery, once a week for three months after that, every other week for the next six months and then once a month for the remainder of your life.
Illness
The Westchester Medical Center in New York recommends reporting any feeling of illness, no matter how small, to your doctor immediately. Your surgery leaves your immune system weak for several months, and any disease could cause complications.
Return to Work
Columbia University Medical Center indicates that returning to work three months after surgery, doing light-duty work, is a proper time frame.
Pregnancy
Women may be able to have children after a liver transplant under close physician supervision. Columbia University Medical Centers suggests waiting no less than 12 months after surgery before conceiving a child.
