Summarize:

You need to be as healthy as possible going into the surgery. This includes even minor illnesses like a cold or the flu. If you have a fever, coughing, or a stuffy nose before surgery, tell your doctor so she can evaluate if you are healthy enough for the procedure.  During the two weeks before your surgery, avoid spending time with people who have the flu or a cold. Wash your hands frequently, especially after shaking hands with people, being in public, or before preparing food. If it is cold or flu season, ask your doctor if you should avoid crowds of people and public transportation. Avoiding crowds may help you reduce your chances of getting exposed to something. . If you smoke, you will need to stop at least two weeks before the procedure. Not only does smoking damage your heart, but it can complicate your surgery. It may cause:  Blood clots Breathing difficulties A bacterial infection in your mouth can increase the risk that you could have bacteria in your blood which might cause an infection. Tell your doctor:  What procedures you have scheduled When they are scheduled Why you need the procedures. Your doctor may have advice about when to get the procedures done. If you are having elective valve surgery, you should have most elective dental work done before surgery. If you will have major dental surgery, you will usually have to take antibiotics with the dental procedure. . It is natural to be worried about undergoing heart surgery; however, the physiological changes that your body goes through when under stress are also an additional burden to your heart. You can ease your stress by:  Talking to your doctor to learn as much as you can about the procedure you will have. Successful heart surgeries are performed every day. You may find it reassuring to research the success rates. Contact your hospital to ask if they have information on your particular procedure, such as how long it is expected to take, how long you will be in the hospital, and the mortality rate or likelihood of complications. Ask your doctor what will happen if you don't get the surgery. Use relaxation techniques. These methods can help you to control your emotions and reduce stress. You can try deep breathing exercises, meditation, visualizing calming images, and progressively tensing and relaxing the different muscle groups throughout your body.  Consult your doctor before starting any new physical activities to make sure your doctor feels that it will be safe for you. Depending on your condition, this could include even mild forms of exercise such as taking walks or doing yoga.
Avoid exposure to illnesses. Quit smoking Tell your doctor about any dental work you need to have. Manage stress