Does minimal-access aortic valve replacement reduce the incidence of postoperative complications?

Not proven (yet): Minimally-invasive heart surgery, including for aortic valve replacement, has not been proven to reduce postoperative complications in randomized studies of both approaches. The one important exception is postoperative pain and immobility; the minimally-invasive approach allows patients, on average, to be pain-free sooner, and become active and return to work, quicker.

Similar risks: Minimally invasive avr has similar risks to the standard procedure. The minimally invasive procedure offers a faster recovery and improved cosmetic results.

Maybe: While not proven, it would appear that a smaller incision should be less painful. However, never choose the size of the incision over the quality of the work. Who would want a painless but inadequate treatment? We have excellent means for controlling pain. I suggest you express these concerns and explore them with your surgeon.