Lisa's Posts

48 years old and 4 weeks out from tissue AVR and ascending Aorta replacement. No pain after 2 weeks, almost no scar - totally amazed at how quickly I have recovered. I believe that it has been a mix of my age, a brilliant surgeon and quite a bit of luck. All the very best for a successful surgery and speedy recovery

Good Morning! I went in for the Aortic Valve Replacement and double bypass on June 20th so I am almost 4 month in recovery. While in there, they also repaired part of my Aorta due to an embolism they found while in there! So far, my surgery and recovery has been "text book" (as per my doctors). I spent 2 days in ICU and then only 3 days in cardiac care before I was sent home. I truly had no major pain of any type but I was also on pain meds for the first 3 or 4 weeks after surgery before slowly getting myself off them. The biggest challenge for me was sleeping. I had to sleep in a chair for the first few weeks and then finally made it into bed. Moving myself around without using my arms was a pain but if I tried, it was the only time I felt discomfort in my incision. Otherwise, I was mostly pain free and was truly amazed how great I felt. My advice is take it slow... and listen to your body. I am doing great now and back to work, walking lots and feeling good. I wish you luck! ;-)

Hi Lisa, my only advice would be to be very aware of the possible emotional issues. I think these come more into play with a bypass than just with valve surgery, since the bypass seems to much like a life-saving acute event. I didn't have the emotions that some report, mine were feelings of intense gratitude, and hopefully you'll feel those, but don't be caught unaware if you have other more difficult emotions to deal with. With some time after surgery you'll be much better! Best to you! Rob Wigley

Hey Lisa! Great to meet you and welcome to our community! I'm hopeful the information and the people at this website will help you prepare for your upcoming surgery. Fyi, many patients from our community have had successful aortic valve and CABG procedures. You are going to do great. If you need anything, please let me know. Adam (patient & website founder)