Think about it really hard and then think more. Get a second opinion and ask the doctor as many questions as you can. Back surgery is one of those 333 issues. Success rate is about 30%, then there is 30% it will not work and there will be no change, the last 30% is it will do more damage than there was. Make it the last choice. Try going to a doctor that specializes in pain as they do wonders.
Do your own survey, if your on facebook ask folks their experiences. I have two friends who are completely disabled after surgery and wish they had not done it.