The side effects of having a kidney removed (nephrectomy) primarily involve pain and wound-related issues in the immediate post-operative period.
Here's a breakdown of the common side effects:
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Pain:
- Pain in your abdomen or on the side where the removed kidney was located is common. This pain usually improves within several days to a week.
- If you underwent a laparoscopic nephrectomy, you might experience shoulder pain. This is due to the gas used during the procedure and should resolve over time.
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Wound-related:
- Bruising around the surgical wounds is normal and will disappear on its own.
- Redness around the wounds is also expected as part of the healing process.
While the listed side effects are common and generally short-term, long-term impacts and less frequent complications are possible but not mentioned in the source material. It is crucial to discuss all potential risks and side effects with your doctor before undergoing a nephrectomy.
