A kidney transplant is a complex procedure performed by a highly trained surgeon. It usually takes around three hours.  During the procedure, a cut will be made in your lower stomach to provide an entry point where the donor kidney can be placed. Your own kidneys will not be removed unless they are causing you health problems.  Nearby blood vessels are then connected to the donor kidney to supply it with blood. To finish, the ureter on the donor kidney is connected to your bladder.  A stent will be inserted into the transplanted ureter (a tube connecting the new kidney to your bladder) during the initial operation. This will need to be removed via a small procedure in the weeks following the transplant.