I don't regret it. However, I have had to Hypertrophic return in the lower part of my heart So I will be doing a 2nd surgery. That was not in the plan.

My pain was mainly in my back. It hurt more than my chest did. Lidocane patches (prescription 5%) and a custom creme with gabapentin helped a lot.
Before surgery, I used nair on my arms a couple of nights before surgery. It helped with the adhesives coming off later. However, I wish I had used it on my chest and neck as well, as you will more than likely have main line IV in the neck and of course the incision on your chest. Last time they sent me home with the bandage still on down my sternum, I spent an hour in the shower at the hotel trying to get it off (They suggested the warm humidity was the best way). However, the heat wore me down quickly and was totally exhausted afterwards. Thankfully I had a shower chair I could sit in, but the heat was fatiguing. This next time, I will insist it be removed before my departure from the hospital.

All of the clothing advice that was previously stated was super helpful! I used button up shirts, the first couple of weeks, after that I was able to work my way into some loose t-shirts and tanks instead of bras. Also a shower chair is helpful for the first week or so.
We drove back home to Arkansas, a couple of days after surgery. My husband had the foresight to ask for a temporary handicap parking permit. That was a big help also, as there were a couple of times it came in handy driving home. First few nights was rough at home. I slept in a recliner for a couple of nights. Afterwards I slept using a wedge with pillows on top. The wedge itself was hard and uncomfortable, so I used about 3 pillows overlapping horizontally, then my regular pillow on top of the very top pillow. I am working to prefect this a bit for the second go around.

Definitely a helper at home is a must! There are things you just can't do by yourself the first few weeks. My husband was mine. He was helpful for the medications as well, as I was not custom to taking many meds and the after surgery brain fog, my sense of timing was off. I was lucky that by the time we got home, I had family, friends and neighbors that brought meals to us which was awesome. My husband can cook a mean steak or on meats on the grill, but that's about it. (HAHA).

At home, I set an alarm for every hour to get up and walk. Started with just a couple of minutes and then worked my way up to 10 minutes at least 3 times a day prior to cardiac rehab. (If you can do that I would highly suggest it if at all possible). I think most insurances and medicare will pay for a certain number of hours/sessions.

I wish you the best of luck. I know it's scary, but remember you are having the surgery done in the best place possible if you are doing it at the Mayo. I know you are in good hands.