The aim of this study was to understand experiences of wait time among patients awaiting scheduled orthopaedic or cardiac surgery. Using a qualitative approach, 32 patients completed two interviews each regarding their wait time experiences, including effects of waiting. Patient experiences of wait time varied regardless of actual wait time and included reports of restriction, uncertainty, resignation, coping and opportunity. Participants’ waiting experiences indicate a complex relationship between greater symptom severity and less tolerance for wait time. We suggest healthcare resources focus on alleviating the deleterious effects of waiting for certain patients rather than reducing absolute wait times.