I had this surgery in an emergency situation because I had a complete sudden aortic dissection in 2015. You don't want that kind of emergency. I had no idea I had an issue until my aorta burst on a business trip 1500 miles from home and then it was a nightmare scenario. Do not wait. You can get all your work, estate, insurance, house, and family issues in order and let everybody know that you need their support. It's open heart surgery and it's a huge deal. BUT BUT BUT, you will be fine. This is a great opportunity to get to a great surgical center that is totally prepared for your case with all of the blood, materials, staff, and surgeons in place and scheduled. You are going to be fine, but listen to your doctors. If you are at a 5.2cm you need to have the surgery done. Everybody's recovery is different, but I'd say you will be moving pretty well after 2 months and feeling back to your old self within a year. It really depends upon your age, your physical health, etc. They will manage your pain, but nothing is free. I have had 9+ years of a great life after it happened to me at 50 years old. You're going to be fine but get it done. Make sure your surgeon is at least 50+ years old. She/he will have done thousands of operations. University of Minnesota, Mayo, Cleveland Clinic, UCSD-San Diego (where I had mine done) are all fantastic. The trick is to be brave and get it done. You owe it to yourself and your family. Peace.