If you don't know- ask.
There are options, depending on the tear type and if there is any other damage.
As you mentioned your knee, there are different types of tears and each requires different approach.
I would ask if you went to a surgeon first or an orthopod (my way of saying a non-surgical or medical orthopedist).
if the tear is not creating a worse problem, it should be "left alone". Meniscus tears are common, and more easily happen in the older age groups.

When I say "left alone" I mean do your physical therapy, maybe put on more muscle (less body fat) because the muscle supports the knee. Discuss with your doctor the type of tear you have. In past "clean out' meant removing most of the meniscus-leaving a space where there was once a cushion. It has been found to lead to osteoarthritis faster.

I am an exercise physiologist and have meniscus tears in both my knees. Your shoulders are a major joint that could have that cushion too! I have tears in those. You can live with tears. It is only when it is a problem that you should consider further intervention. I am an exercise physiologist and was very proactive to preventing surgery. If surgery is the answer, I would highly recommend that you try to do "prehabilitation". The afterwards can go a lot better.