Hello Diana
I had AVR (homograft) back in February this year and right up to surgery date I felt great. I had no symptoms and the only reason I went ahead when I did was because the doctors said my valve was badly calcified and I should give up playing competitive tennis (the love of my life).
So for me, it was a great leap of faith in trusting the medical profession that I was "due" for surgery. So many times I asked myself "why am I doing this when I feel so great?"
Anyway, after the surgery, I look back and realise that I must have been slowly deteriorating over afew years without becoming aware of it. Because afterwards (=now) I feel so great. I had to physch myself up for surgery on the belief that it would be the start of a new life. And it was, because now, 4 months post op, there's nothing I can't do.
The surgeon said after the op that the valve was due to come out, so that made me feel better as well.
I went into my surgery very well informed and confident in my surgical team and with full knowledge of why I was doing it. I suggest that if you have any doubts, get another opinion. Otherwise, go for it!!!!
Best wishes