Can humans survive with only 20-30% of their liver: Understanding the regenerative power, risks, and tips to manage

The liver is one of the most essential organs in the human body, performing critical functions such as detoxifying blood, metabolising nutrients and medications, producing bile, and supporting the immune system. Uniquely, it can regenerate and compensate even after substantial tissue loss. According to medical research, including the PubMed review “How much remnant is enough in liver resection?”, survival is possible when only 20–30% of liver volume remains, provided the remaining tissue is healthy. This remarkable resilience has attracted public attention, particularly after reports revealed that legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan continues to live with just 25% of his liver functioning. His case demonstrates the liver’s extraordinary regenerative capacity and the importance of careful me