Please try physical therapy or get an evaluation completed by a competent physical therapist before surgery. I had lots of knee problems in 2012 and was lucky that the orthopedic surgeon suggested that I try therapy first. I did. My therapist said I was very lucky that my surgeon was honest and knew that therapy could help my knees. Thirteen years later, after many Pilates sessions (which I love), my knees are working just fine. Just remember that surgeons love to operate -- it's their job. It's possible that not every one is as honest as mine was.