Still, it’s a complex surgery. Here’s what you should know before you decide it’s right for you.

When your kidneys aren’t working the way they should, waste and extra fluids build up in your body. Dialysis is one way to treat this problem, but you could also choose to have a kidney transplant. This could give you more freedom with your daily schedule. It may also give you more energy and help you feel better. And, survival rates are higher after a kidney transplant.

How Do I Get a Donor Kidney?

If your doctor thinks a transplant is an option for you, he’ll put you in touch with a local transplant center. That’s a hospital that does organ transplants. You’ll then have exams, X-rays, and scans to make sure you’re healthy enough to go through the transplant process.

There are two different ways you can get a healthy kidney. The first is through what’s known as a “living donors.” This might be a family member or close friend who is willing to give you one of their kidneys. Or, it could be a stranger who’s willing to give you one of theirs. The second way you could get a kidney is from a deceased organ donor.

Either way, your blood and tissue will need to be tested to make sure yours matches that of the donor. This raises the chances that your immune system will accept the donor kidney and not try to attack it.

If you have a living donor, you’ll be able to schedule the date of your transplant surgery. Getting a kidney from a deceased organ donor may take much longer. You’ll be placed on a waiting list. Then, when a kidney is ready, you’ll receive a call telling you to get to the hospital right away.