I was told that they do not operate before 5 cm because the surgery is significant with various risks including fatality. They also said that if guidelines are followed it is possible it will not reach 5 cm before someone gets old and finally goes from something else. Very frustrating but is not as simple as having a knee replaced for example.

My AA was found at 4cm and then I was told to get yearly checks. My first year came and went and I called the local cardiologist to see when my appointment would be. I was on a waiting list. I kept calling to see when I could get in. Finally, after 4 months of no luck getting an appointment I went to my local doctor. It was a Friday. She did some blood work and said she would work on getting me my appointment. She could probably get it faster than I. On Mon. she called and gave me a prescription for a high does of vitamin D3, it was low. On Wed. I had an emergency aortic dissection (I never heard of such a thing - I had no idea). I was simply on watch, never changed my lifestyle, and didn't think it was a big deal. I was on no other medications. I am 2 years out of my surgery and I am now approaching 71 YO (female). Since my surgery I have been told the same as you are being told now. However my restriction is no lifting anything that causes me to grunt, moan, groan, hold my breath. My point being is the results are the same whether you have surgery or not. There are plenty of jobs to do without lifting. This morning I finished a 14.5 mile bike ride in an hour. I started by walking one minute every hour I was awake, after surgery. Good luck and just in your doctors.