Results

Mitral valve repair and replacement surgery may help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

You'll need regular checkups with your doctor to make sure the new or repaired valve is working properly.

If you had mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve, you'll need to take blood thinners for the rest of your life to prevent blood clots. Biological tissue valves break down (degenerate) over time and usually need to be replaced.

Your doctor may also recommend cardiac rehabilitation, a program of education and exercise designed to help you improve your health and recover after heart surgery.

Following a healthy lifestyle is important to your heart health before and after mitral valve surgery. A healthy lifestyle includes:

• Not smoking
• Getting regular exercise
• Eating a healthy diet
• Managing stress