text: Depending on the type and size of a heart attack, and how it was treated, the damage done by a heart attack can be reversed.  Sometimes, if the heart attack is small enough and is treated with clot busting agents quickly enough, there can be something called "reperfusion" of the heart muscles.  With reperfusion, sometimes the heart muscle can be saved.  \n\nAlthough tests (echocardiogram or treadmill) can be abnormal in the period immediately following this type of small, well treated heart attack, sometimes the heart muscle "hibernates" and is not actually dead.  Return of function can be seen months later.\n\nThe best way to encourage this return to function, would be to follow your doctor's advice and engage in a good cardiac rehabilitation program.  Even if you have had a heart attack where some of the muscle has died, a cardiac rehab program can put you on the path to recovery.