@clairepeterson I think that the answer to that lies in what effect it would have on your quality of life. I imagine that the next couple of decades would be more enjoyable if your pain was reduced and if your knee were functioning the way it should. Surgeons can do wonders. And my experience has been that when I've had a successful procedure, my mental health improves.

You know what's important to you, and who cares about others might think. Have you talked with a doctor about it? She can give you the pros and cons of the surgery, the possible risks, and the benefits. Be prepared for the recovery time. If you do all of the exercises ahead of time that you'll have to do after surgery, recovery is a lot easier. So do those stretches!

Jim