For some patients valve surgery will be required. It's important to consider the availability of the best care, the right time to operate, and the symptoms or weaknesses which will likely be improved with surgery.
With an experienced surgical team and facility, the risk from valve surgery is very low, and likelihood of success is very high. Ideally, one should seek a medical center with extensive experience in valve surgery.
Timing is also an important part of a successful valve operation. Stay up to date on your medical care so that a significant valve problem is recognized and fixed before it does long term damage.
Symptoms should not be ignored. Ignoring symptoms too long may cause your heart to become weaker. Heart damage can increase the risks of the surgery, which otherwise would be quite low. The majority of people who have valve surgeries live totally normal lives after recovery. By taking care of yourself, you give yourself and those you love the best odds for a long and healthy life.