Heart Surgery: What to Expect

Preparing for heart surgery or a heart procedure 

Learning that you need heart surgery or a heart procedure can feel overwhelming. Whether your procedure is planned or unexpected, it’s normal to have questions about what will happen before, during and after treatment. 

At Banner Health, we support you every step of the way. From pre-procedure testing through recovery and rehabilitation, you’ll have access to experienced surgeons, advanced technology and compassionate care teams. Our goal is to help you heal safely and return to the activities and life you enjoy. 

How to prepare for heart surgery or a heart procedure 

Preparation depends on the type of procedure you’re having. Open heart surgeries, such as bypass surgery, valve repair or heart transplant, differ from minimally invasive heart procedures, such as stent placement, TAVR or pacemaker implantation. 

Your care team will review your treatment plan with you and help you feel ready, both physically and emotionally. 

Your pre-procedure evaluation 

Before heart surgery or a heart procedure, you’ll have a detailed medical evaluation to ensure the safest care possible. This may include: 

• A physical exam and medical history to understand your heart condition and overall health 
• Blood tests to check for infection, anemia or clotting concerns 
• Imaging tests, such as a chest X-ray, echocardiogram or CT scan 
• An electrocardiogram (EKG) to measure heart rhythm 
• Cardiac catheterization, if needed, to evaluate blood flow in your coronary arteries 

For open heart surgery and certain procedures, your care team will also review anesthesia, potential risks and what recovery may look like. 

Medication and diet instructions before your procedure 

You’ll receive clear instructions about medications and diet in the days leading up to your procedure. 

This may include: 

• Temporarily stopping blood thinners 
• Adjusting diabetes medications or insulin 
• Stopping food and drinks after midnight the night before your procedure 

Always follow your care team’s instructions closely and ask questions if anything is unclear. 

Getting your body and home ready for recovery 

Preparing ahead of time can make recovery smoother and less stressful. 

Helpful steps include: 

• Quit smoking if possible, even briefly, to improve circulation and lung function 
• Eat a balanced, heart-healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein 
• Plan for support, such as help with meals, transportation or household tasks 
• Prepare your home, creating a comfortable recovery area with frequently used items within reach 

If your procedure is outpatient or minimally invasive, you’ll usually go home the same day or the next day. Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. 

What happens on the day of surgery or your procedure 

Your safety and comfort are the top priorities on procedure day. Your care team may include a heart surgeon or interventional cardiologist, anesthesiologist, nurses and specialized technologists. 

Before the procedure 

You can expect: 

• Changing into a hospital gown 
• Placement of an IV for fluids and medications 
• Monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels 
• A conversation with your anesthesiologist about sedation and comfort 

Anesthesia options 

• Open heart surgery: General anesthesia (you’ll be fully asleep) 
• Minimally invasive procedures: Local anesthesia with moderate sedation (you may be awake or lightly asleep) 

What happens during open heart surgery 

During traditional open heart surgery: 

• An incision is made in the chest 
• The surgeon performs the repair or replacement, such as bypass grafting, valve repair or transplant 
• The incision is closed and you are taken to recovery 

These surgeries may last several hours. Your family will receive updates throughout the day. 

What happens during minimally invasive heart procedures 

For catheter-based procedures: 

• A small incision is made, usually in the groin, wrist or chest 
• A thin catheter is guided to the heart using imaging 
• Specialized tools or devices complete the repair 

Common minimally invasive procedures include: 

• Angioplasty and stent placement 
• Transcatheter valve repair or replacement (such as TAVR or MitraClip) 
• Pacemaker or ICD implantation 
• Catheter ablation for heart rhythm disorders 

These procedures often take one to three hours and typically involve shorter recovery times. 

What happens after surgery or your procedure 

Recovery looks different for everyone. Your care team will monitor you closely and help you regain strength safely. 

Immediately after surgery 

After open heart surgery: 

• You’ll recover in the intensive care unit (ICU) 
• Monitoring may include IV lines, a breathing tube, chest tubes and a catheter 
• Pain is expected and will be managed by your care team 

After minimally invasive procedures: 

• You’ll recover in a monitored recovery area 
• Sitting up and walking may begin within hours 
• Many people go home the same day or after one night 

Hospital stay and discharge planning 

Hospital stay length depends on the procedure and your health. 

Open heart surgery (typically 5–7 days): 

• Early movement to prevent blood clots 
• Breathing exercises to support lung strength 
• Incision care and gentle physical therapy 
• Medication review and activity guidelines 

Minimally invasive procedures: 

• Wound care instructions 
• Medication and activity guidance 
• Follow-up appointment planning 

Recovery at home 

Once home, you’ll be guided to: 

• Gradually increase activity 
• Eat heart-healthy meals and stay hydrated 
• Avoid driving and heavy lifting until cleared 
• Take medications exactly as prescribed 
• Watch for signs of infection and report concerns promptly 

Cardiac rehabilitation and long-term care 

Many people benefit from cardiac rehabilitation after heart surgery or a procedure. 

Cardiac rehab may include: 

• Supervised exercise to strengthen the heart 
• Education about nutrition, medications and lifestyle habits 
• Emotional support and confidence-building 

Cardiac rehabilitation can improve recovery, reduce future heart risk and help you return to daily life safely. 

Learn more about cardiac rehabilitation at Banner Health. 

Emotional and mental recovery 

Emotional changes after heart surgery are common. Feeling anxious, sad or tired can be part of recovery. Talk with your provider if mood or sleep issues persist. Support groups and behavioral health specialists can help. 

Frequently asked questions 

How long does recovery take? 

After open heart surgery, many people return to light activity in six to eight weeks. After minimally invasive procedures, recovery may take days to a few weeks. 

When can I drive again? 

Driving is usually restricted for four to six weeks after surgery. For other procedures, clearance may come sooner. 

How can I sleep more comfortably? 

Sleeping in a reclined position or with extra pillows may help. 

When can I shower? 

You may shower once staples or wires are removed. Avoid soaking baths until incisions heal. 

When should I seek urgent care? 

Call 911 or go to the ER for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, high fever, signs of infection or sudden swelling or pain in the legs. 

Healing your heart with Banner Health 

At Banner Health, our heart care teams combine advanced technology with personalized support. Whether you need open heart surgery or a minimally invasive heart procedure, you can feel confident knowing you’re in expert hands. 

We’re here for every step of your journey - before, during and after treatment. 

Find a heart specialist near you and explore Banner Health heart care programs.