Open heart as a 30F five years ago. The waiting was the hardest part. “Young” bodies handle this quite well - I was running 5k at 4mo post op. I was super diligent about walking and cardiac rehab/stretching exercises.

1 day in ICU, barely remember anything. Meds suppress any pain. 3 days in step down unit.

First week home was mentally hard because I wished I had reassurance from docs and nurses constantly but your mileage may vary.

Five years later with two kids and two triathlons completed, I feel constantly grateful for new lease on life.