If you have to undergo surgery, read my success story. I'm more than greatful, how I recovered. Being back to normal 100%.

My Ascending Thoracic Aneurysm was 5,3 cm. I got surgery 4 month ago at Mount Sinai Hospital Miami Beach.
My excellent surgeon was Dr. Xydas.
I never had pain (except if I needed to caugh. Of course, I hugged myself).
Right after surgery, I got good pain killers, understandable. But they've been taken off after a week or so. Still no pain, a miracle to me.
All my organs kicked in again, right away in ICU, From there on, all my blood values were "excellent". I started Rehab the second day, a short distance walking, all went well.
8 days at the hospital room, and 8 days in inpatient Rehab at the same Mount Sinai Hospital.
I got a chair in my shower at home. So, I could independent shower and even washing my hair - avoiding stretching over head.
All I can say, I'm more than grateful, having back my life, without fear of the Aorta bursting. I couldn't even go on an airplane anymore.
I hope to help you, getting more inside, God bless you.
See my scar, almost invisible 4 weeks post surgery.