Nephrectomy
Advanced surgical removal of cancerous kidney for effective treatment and improved prognosis.
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Surgery Type
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What happens in this surgery?
- Surgical removal of the entire kidney.
- May also include removal of the adrenal gland, surrounding fatty tissue, and nearby lymph nodes.
- Typically performed for larger or more aggressive kidney tumors.
- Can be done via open surgery or laparoscopically.
Ready to take the next step?
Connect with a specialist to see if Nephrectomy is right for you.
Post Surgery Recovery
What to expect after your procedure
Following a nephrectomy, patients typically stay in the hospital for 3 to 7 days, depending on the type of surgery and individual recovery. Pain management will be provided, and patients will be encouraged to ambulate soon after surgery to prevent complications like blood clots. A urinary catheter may be in place for a few days. Full recovery can take several weeks to a few months. Patients will gradually resume normal activities, avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for an extended period as advised by their surgeon. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing, kidney function, and to ensure there is no recurrence of cancer. Lifestyle adjustments, such as dietary changes or managing blood pressure, may be recommended to support the remaining kidney's health.
Hospital Stay
1–7 days
Varies by procedure
Initial Rest
1–2 weeks
Light activity only
Follow-up Visit
2–4 weeks
Wound check & review
Full Recovery
6–12 weeks
Back to normal activity
Recovery & Wellness Tips
- Comprehensive medical evaluation, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging (CT scan, MRI).
- Discussion with your surgeon about the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes.
- Review of current medications; certain drugs (e.g., blood thinners) may need to be stopped before surgery.
- Fasting for a specified period before the operation.
- Smoking cessation is highly recommended to improve healing and reduce complications.
