After Heart Valve Surgery

For the first 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, you will gain a little more energy and strength each day. Your healthcare provider will discuss what you can and cannot do as you recover. You will have good days and bad days. Remember to take things slowly and rest when you get tired.

Walking

• Walking pumps blood to your heart. This improves blood flow throughout your whole body.
• Begin with short walks of 5 minutes 4 times a day and then walk for a little longer each day as you recover.
• Choose a safe place with a level surface. This might be a local park or mall.
• Wear shoes with good support. This will help prevent injury to knees and ankles. 
• If possible, walk with someone. It is more fun and helps you stay with it.

Showering

• Shower daily using mild soap and water. Have the water run off your incision and gently pat to dry.
• Avoid using very hot water. It can affect your circulation and make you dizzy.
• Do not use any powders, lotions, or oils on your incision until it is well healed or your healthcare provider tells you it is OK.
• Ask someone to stand nearby in case you need help.

Driving

• Do not drive until cleared by your surgeon.
• As a passenger sit in the back seat (in case of air bag deployment) and wear your safety belt.
• Motion can make pain worse and cause injury to your breastbone.
• Some of your medicines may make you drowsy.

Easing into activity 

• After a few weeks, you can start doing light work around your home.
• Most healthcare providers advise against lifting anything that weighs more than 5 pounds. Do not lift more than your healthcare provider says you are allowed.
• Do not do any mowing or vacuuming. These activities can strain your breastbone.
• Your healthcare provider will advise you about the best plan for returning to work.
• Unless your provider tells you otherwise, you can resume having sex as soon as you feel comfortable.

Medicines your healthcare provider may prescribe

• Your healthcare provider may prescribe a blood-thinner (anticoagulant) medicine. This medicine prevents bleeding or blood clots that could lead to a stroke.
• Your provider may prescribe an antibiotic. You will be told when to take this medicine. You may need antibiotics before dental work, surgery, or other medical procedures.