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After transplant, the risk of getting skin cancer is increased due to the immunosuppressant medications. Therefore, it is recommended that you avoid being out during the midday sun, wear a hat and a long-sleeved top when out in the sun and, wear a sunscreen of Factor 50 in summer months and Factor 30 in winter months.  

In the first 3 months after transplant, your dosage of immunosuppressants will be fairly high and it is advised to isolate as you will be susceptible to picking up viruses and illnesses from other people. As your transplant medications are reduced, you will be able to start going out more freely although it is advised to take care around people who are infectious as the immunosuppressant medications will always mean that you have an increased risk of becoming poorly yourself.

You will only be sent home when your Consultant feels that you are able to move well enough and that your recovery is going well. You may need help to lift heavy objects, to stretch to reach things and to help you with shopping. It is advised not to lift anything heavy in the first couple of months and to bring items close to your body before lifting them rather than stretching out your arm to lift them at a distance away from your body as this will put more strain on the area around your liver transplant and could potentially cause a hernia. Walking is encouraged after transplant and your Consultant and Transplant Coordinator will suggest you to take short walks each day as you feel comfortable to build up your muscles. You may want someone with you when you go out for a walk in the first few weeks as a support.

Generally, stitches are removed about 21 days after the transplant operation. This is done by either a district nurse, GP or in the hospital and patients generally find that it is not a painful procedure.

There are many insurance companies which will offer travel insurance for people with a pre-existing medical condition however, it will cost more than the usual average price for normal travel insurance. The insurance company will require you to answer a series of medical questions so they can offer you the right type of insurance. This often depends both on your medical condition as well as the countries you are travelling to. It is always really important to make sure you have the right type of insurance before you travel and you should always check with your Consultant that you are fit to travel. Even post-transplant it is worth checking with your Consultant particularly if you are travelling to remote areas where access to more advanced healthcare is not readily available.

You will also need to check what vaccinations are required for your destination, some vaccinations cannot be taken if you are on immunosuppressants. For example, after a transplant, you can’t ever have a live vaccine.

On all travel insurance, the prices can vary dramatically, so always get several quotes.

The British Liver Trust may be able to provide names of insurance companies who are more compassionate in relation to liver transplant patients seeking insurance.

It is always best to check with your GP, Transplant Coordinator or Consultant before taking any new medications (even herbal and natural medications) as they may interfere with your transplant medications. You may find that you also need to avoid certain antibiotics so always remind your GP of your medical history and the medications you take so they can always be well-informed to make the right choices for you.

Usually it is advised not to return to work until 3 months after your transplant operation, however, this very much depends on the individual, how quickly you recover and the type of work you do. It is always best to have a discussion with your Consultant before returning to work.

ALTA are always looking for people to join our friendly network and get involved with our volunteering work. If you are interested, please email info@alta.org.uk and we would be pleased to hear from you!