So sorry that you’ve had a stroke already- makes it even more important to get the surgery done. Good that you have an experienced surgeon and I’m glad you found Dr Cognetti patient.
I’m UK so haven’t had surgery with him, but I had VES & the symptoms went quickly after surgery, I felt lots better. I was really worried beforehand, but the recovery wasn’t as bad as I expected. There are lots of recovery stories on here if you have time to read them- just search for ‘what to expect after surgery’.
One of our members did a surgery shopping list, here’s a link:
Surgery shopping list - General - Living with Eagle
It’s important to sleep semi upright, so the wedge pillow is handy, and to keep icing to help with swelling. It can often be hard to chew after surgery, so ingredients for smoothies & soft foods are a good idea to get ready, plus something to help with constipation as the meds can cause that!
As @Isaiah_40_31 says, recovery can be up & down, days 3-5 can be the worst as swelling peaks then, & the effects of the anesthetic will have worn off then, so be prepared for that!
Hopefully others who’ve had surgery with Dr Cognetti will chip in as well.
Surgery date noted 
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