Is it okay to feel a sense of loss after heart valve replacement surgery?

Yes: A large number of patients will have a short period of depression post-operatively after heart surgery in general. I don't think we really understand why this happens, but in my experience, the great majority of these patients recover over time and their depression resolves. It would be appropriate to seek psychiatric attention if this period prolongs beyond a few months.

Yes: Our humanity and vulnerability are exposed with any surgery but cardiac patients not uncommonly will have some depression and loss until they are back at work or play!