A 4.6 cm abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) isn’t considered large enough for surgery yet in most cases, but it’s absolutely big enough to warrant close surveillance—typically imaging every 6 to 12 months depending on your risk factors. The fact that your doctor told you to stop smoking is good advice (that part matters), but the silence beyond that is concerning. You deserve a full conversation about what this means for your future: what to watch for, what your growth rate is, whether you should be referred to a vascular surgeon now for monitoring, and what lifestyle changes are critical beyond quitting smoking.

Trust your instinct. If you’re feeling ignored or underinformed, you may very well need a more proactive and communicative provider. You are not overreacting. This is your life and your aorta—we only get one of each. Knowledge is power here. Knowing about your aneurysm means you can act with intention. There’s a lot you can do to manage risk, but you need a medical team that walks that path with you. Peace.