Considerations

The human liver has the unique characteristic of being able to rebuild itself. However, there are certain limits to this self-repair mechanism and how fast healing occurs depends on the amount of damage and a person's body chemistry.

Time Frame

The liver can completely heal from certain types of damage, such as a medication overdose, within a month. Chronic problems, such as cirrhosis, can take years to heal, if at all, according to the American Liver Foundation.

Considerations

In order to completely heal, the liver needs a healthy environment free from the problem(s) that caused the damage. Continued abuse of the liver (such as alcohol consumption) leads to scar tissue, which prevents a proper liver recovery, says the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Warning

In the case of cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, people may not realize the extent of liver complications because the liver can function in a damaged state for years. Chronic drinking often leads to cirrhosis, which generally results in irreversible liver damage, according to the American Liver Foundation.

Tips

In order to speed up the recovery from liver damage, people should eat a healthy diet, exercise and avoid toxins such as alcohol and drugs.

Source:

American Liver Foundation: Cirrhosis

University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics: Liver Disease: Frequently Asked Questions