I was in a coma. You can breathe just fine. They will take very good care of you. Knowing what I know now, I would have elected to have the surgery BEFORE it ruptured. Elective surgery always has a better outcome than emergent surgery. It's okay to be scared but it's important to be smart. You family loves you and needs you healthy. A surgeon who is not dealing with a dissection crisis has a much better chance of helping you by having all of the necessary tools, staff, sleep, and resources to give you a great outcome. There are risks no doubt, but on balance I would not suggest waiting if your doctor has told you you need surgery. You'll be fine.