You're going to be OK. You came to the right place. Now that you know you have a problem you can work at reducing your risks and prepare yourself to have open-heart surgery to repair it if necessary. You are 95% of the way there because you know you have a problem and you can do something about it. For many of us, me included we did not know we had a problem until we had a complete aortic dissection. Most people who have that sort of event don't survive. I am lucky and I am thankful to have survived in 2015, but I sure wish I would've known I had a problem because I would've addressed it.

In your case, you're much more likely to survive an aortic surgery for repair that is done in a scheduled and controlled manner, as opposed to an emergent operation which often times you won't even live long enough to get to the hospital. So, being in a 3.9 means that your doctor will likely tell you that they will not operate until you reach a 5.0. That's fairly normal, but it depends upon your size, gender, age, etc. 5 cm is the typical demarcation point for having open-heart surgery to repair the aorta. I'm so happy for you that you know you have a problem because now you can confidently make adjustments in your life that will make it less likely that you will have a sudden aortic dissection. Regular CT scans with contrast of your heart and your vasculature will save your life. Make it a habit to see your fully qualified thoracic surgeon with expertise in aortic repairs. She or he are your best friend and the sooner you get to know them and have regular appointments with them the better your chances are of surviving. Keep your blood pressure down, keep your weight down, keep your stress down, and listen to your medical team, especially your thoracic surgeon. Peace.