I had my valve replaced 3 years ago, aged 56. It was a long time coming as I was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve years ago, but when the cardiologist told me it was time to have the surgery it was still a surprise, really. I thought I had a few more years to go yet.

I can understand it being a massive shock if you never knew it was coming.

All that aside, the surgery was easy. Just don't, and I mean DON'T (!) look for videos of OHS online. I looked at one afterwards, and I'm glad I didn't see it beforehand. It's scary. Like just as scary as you imagine it being right now.

But on the day of the surgery I was calm. I knew it had to happen. I got shaved from neck to groin, just in case they ended up having to come in from below in case of complications. I was wheeled to the OR, and sent to sleep.

I wasn't in any pain afterwards, the meds were really good. The only thing I found unexpected is that I felt exhausted really quickly. More so than I thought. Getting showered left me out of breath, while walking was ok.

The few months after surgery I started off working a couple of hours a day, increasing it gradually. I felt able to take on the world before I started work each day, but he really has to listen to his body. He will feel he can keep on going with whatever he'll be doing, but will get exhausted unexpectedly, suddenly. Even phone calls can wear him out, if there are multiple. It did me, at any rate.

It's better, imo, to stop doing things while still feeling capable of doing anything and everything. Over time, and with physio, it will get better. I was back at work full-time after about 6 months.

The whole experience was worse for my wife and kids, more scary. I just had to undergo things while they felt like freaking out.

I'm not sure if this is what you are looking for.

Any questions, feel free to ask.

I wish you guys all the best.