After successful aortic valve replacement, patients can expect to return to their preoperative condition or better. Anticoagulation ("blood thinners") with a drug like Coumadin may be prescribed for 6 weeks to 3 months after surgery for those with biological valves, and for life for those with mechanical valves. Once the wounds have healed, most patients should experience few if any restrictions to activity. A patient will require preventative or prophylactic antibiotics whenever having dental work, and should always tell a doctor about their valve surgery before any surgical procedure. Aortic valve replacement surgery