Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu, Hepatologist and Liver Transplant Surgeon at Dhaara Liver Clinic, Bangalore, performs Post-Liver Transplant Care, Immunosuppression and Long-Term Follow-Up with 16+ years of specialist experience. His team performs 60+ liver transplants per year, with outcomes benchmarked against international standards.

What is Post-Liver Transplant Care

After a liver transplant, your body is in a unique and vulnerable state. The new liver is a gift, but it needs careful care to ensure it functions well and lasts as long as possible. Post-liver transplant care refers to the ongoing medical treatment and support that patients receive after the surgery. This includes managing medications, monitoring for complications, and making lifestyle changes that promote long-term health.

At Dhaara Liver Clinic in Yelahanka, Bangalore, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care to our patients. Our team performs over 60 liver transplants per year, and we understand the importance of a comprehensive follow-up plan. We are here to guide you every step of the way, with compassion and medical expertise.

Why Post-Transplant Care Matters

• It helps prevent rejection of the new liver
• It manages the side effects of immunosuppressive drugs
• It monitors for infections and other complications
• It supports your overall health and well-being
• It helps you return to a normal, active life

You are not alone on this journey. Our team of experienced liver transplant surgeons, including Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu, and our dedicated medical staff are with you from the moment of the transplant until long after your recovery.

—

Immunosuppression and Long-Term Follow-Up

After a liver transplant, your immune system may attack the new liver, mistaking it for a foreign object. To prevent this, patients are given immunosuppressive drugs, which help suppress the immune system and protect the new liver.

What are Immunosuppressive Drugs?

These are medications that reduce the activity of your immune system. They are essential for the long-term survival of the transplanted liver. However, they also come with risks, such as:

• Increased risk of infections
• Higher chance of developing certain cancers
• Possible side effects like high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney issues

At Dhaara Liver Clinic, we carefully manage your immunosuppressive regimen. Our team tailors the medications to your individual needs and monitors you closely for any side effects or complications.

Long-Term Follow-Up: A Lifelong Commitment

Even after you have fully recovered from the surgery, regular follow-up care is essential. This includes:

• Regular blood tests to check liver function and drug levels
• Imaging tests to monitor the liver and detect any abnormalities
• Periodic consultations with your transplant team
• Health education to help you manage your condition

You will need to see your transplant team regularly for the first few years after the transplant. The frequency of visits may decrease over time, but it is important to continue with annual checkups and maintain open communication with your care team.

—

Who Needs This

Post-liver transplant care is essential for anyone who has undergone a liver transplant. This includes:

• Patients who received a liver transplant from a deceased donor
• Patients who received a liver transplant from a living donor
• Patients who had a partial liver transplant (living donor liver transplant)

Whether you are a child or an adult, the care plan is tailored to your specific needs. Our team at Dhaara Liver Clinic has experience in treating patients of all ages and backgrounds.

You may also need post-transplant care if:

• You have a history of liver disease or cirrhosis
• You are at risk for liver failure or complications after surgery
• You are undergoing long-term immunosuppressive therapy

—

What Happens Before the Procedure

Before a liver transplant, a series of steps are taken to prepare you for surgery and ensure the best possible outcome.

Evaluation and Assessment

You will undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a transplant. This includes:

• Blood tests to check for liver function, blood type, and other health conditions
• Imaging tests such as ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs
• Psychological and social assessments to evaluate your mental health and support system
• Consultations with specialists, including hepatologists, surgeons, and transplant coordinators

At Dhaara Liver Clinic, we have a multidisciplinary team that works together to ensure you are fully prepared for the transplant. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive and personalized plan that addresses all your medical and emotional needs.

Waiting for a Donor

If you are on the waiting list for a deceased donor liver transplant, you will be monitored closely for any changes in your condition. You may be called for surgery at any time when a suitable donor becomes available.

For living donor liver transplants, your donor will also undergo extensive medical evaluations to ensure they are a good match and in good health.

—

The Procedure Itself

The liver transplant surgery is a complex but well-established procedure that is performed by highly trained surgeons like Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu.

The Surgery

• The surgery usually takes between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the complexity of the case
• The damaged liver is removed, and the donor liver is implanted
• The new liver is connected to the blood vessels and bile ducts
• The surgical team works carefully to ensure the new liver is properly placed and functioning

Types of Liver Transplants

There are two main types of liver transplants:

• Deceased donor transplant: The liver comes from someone who has passed away and has donated their organs
• Living donor transplant: The liver comes from a living donor, usually a family member or close friend

Both types of transplants are performed at Dhaara Liver Clinic with the same level of care and expertise.

—

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from a liver transplant is a long process that requires patience, support, and close medical follow-up.

Hospital Stay

• You will typically stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 weeks after the transplant
• During this time, you will be closely monitored for signs of infection, rejection, or other complications
• You will receive immunosuppressive medications through intravenous (IV) lines and then orally once you are ready to go home

At Home Recovery

• You will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks
• You may experience some discomfort, but this can be managed with medication
• You will be given detailed instructions on how to take your medications, when to return for follow-up visits, and what signs to watch for

Support from Family and Friends

• Your family and friends play a crucial role in your recovery
• They can help with daily tasks, provide emotional support, and encourage you to follow your care plan
• It is important to have a strong support system in place during the early stages of recovery

At Dhaara Liver Clinic, we provide support to patients and families throughout the entire process. Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide guidance.

—

Risks and Outcomes

Like any major surgery, a liver transplant carries risks. However, with modern medical advancements and the expertise of our team, the success rates are very high.

Common Risks

• Rejection of the new liver: This is the most common complication and is managed with immunosuppressive drugs
• Infections: Due to the weakened immune system, patients are at higher risk for infections
• Side effects of immunosuppressive drugs: These may include high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney problems
• Bile duct complications: These can occur in the early stages of recovery
• Blood clots and bleeding: These are rare but can happen during or after surgery

Long-Term Outcomes

With proper care, most patients who receive a liver transplant can expect a long and healthy life. Many patients return to their normal activities within a few months and enjoy a good quality of life.

• Survival rates: Five-year survival rates for liver transplant recipients are over 70%
• Quality of life: Patients often report improved energy, better health, and the ability to return to work and enjoy life with their families
• Long-term follow-up: Regular checkups and adherence to the care plan are essential for long-term success

—

Our Commitment to You

At Dhaara Liver Clinic, Yelahanka, Bangalore, we understand that undergoing a liver transplant is a major life event. Our team, led by Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu, is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, with a focus on compassion, expertise, and long-term success.

We perform over 60 liver transplants per year, and we are proud to be one of the leading centers for liver transplant care in India. Whether you are preparing for a transplant, recovering from surgery, or in long-term follow-up, we are here to support you every step of the way.

You are not just a patient to us — you are part of our family. We are committed to helping you live a full and healthy life after your liver transplant.