It is important to understand the effects of long-term immunosuppression on other aspects of your teen’s health – like their skin and bone health. In addition to routine care with their Primary Care Provider (PCP), your teen will need regular follow-up for dental, vision, skin, and bone health. As a parent, your role is shifting—from managing most of the care to supporting your teen as they take more ownership of their health. This guide highlights practical ways you can help.
Skin Health After Transplant
Teens and young adults who have had a transplant have a higher risk of skin cancer due to being on long-term immunosuppression. Daily prevention and regular monitoring are essential. How you can help:
- Encourage your teen to limit sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Reinforce the importance of daily sunscreen use (broad‑spectrum SPF 30 or higher), even on cloudy days.
- Make sure sunscreen is reapplied every two hours during outdoor activities, swimming, or sweating.
- Support protective habits like wearing hats, sunglasses, and UV‑protective clothing.
- Discourage tanning and the use of tanning beds.
- Remind your teen to check their skin monthly and speak up about new or changing spots.
- Ensure they see a dermatologist once a year for a full skin exam.
Keeping Bones Strong
Some transplant medications can affect bone density over time. Denser bones are stronger and less likely to fracture. The teen years are especially important for building strong bones that last into adulthood. Here are some ways you can support your teen in maintaining bone health:
- Promote regular physical activity, especially weight‑bearing exercises like walking, jogging, dancing, or light strength training.
- Encourage your teen to eat a balanced diet that includes calcium and Vitamin D. Supplements may be recommended by the transplant team.
- Discourage alcohol and tobacco use and vaping which can weaken bones.
- Help your teen keep up with bone density testing (DEXA scans) as recommended by your team.
- Coordinate care between the transplant team and your teen’s primary care provider when questions arise.
Dental and Oral Health
Because immunosuppression increases infection risk, dental health is especially important after transplant. Remind your teen to:
- Brush their teeth twice daily and floss every day.
- Attend dental checkups and cleanings every six months.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks that increase the risk of cavities.
- Report any changes in their mouth such as white patches on their tongue or the lining of their mouth, pain, or difficulty swallowing to the transplant team.
Eye Health
Certain transplant medications can increase the risk of eye conditions over time. How to help:
- Ensure your teen has annual eye exams, even if they don’t notice vision problems.
- Encourage them to report changes such as blurry vision, eye pain, or sensitivity to light.
Your Role as a Parent/Caregiver
Your support, guidance, and encouragement remain vital—even as your teen becomes more independent. Helping them build confidence in managing their health and developing healthy habits sets the foundation for a successful transition into adult care.
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