Two Stage Fusion/Laminectomy - Anyone Have Perspective?

I had a successful C4-7 ACDF in Feb. Now, 12 weeks post cervical, I return to Mayo for a two-step lower back procedure. I was wondering if anyone has experienced this process and can assist with their perspective???...Day One is a "typical" L 2-5 Fusion. Day Two I will walk the halls of the hospital (Mayo) and "feel" how much improvement Day One surgery produced. Two ways forward...If I feel significant improvement, Day Three will be a "typical" L 2-5 Laminectomy and done. If I don't feel much/any improvement...Day Three will be a monster T10-S fusion and laminectomy. I can safely say I don't want that!!! But I have no idea how to evaluate what level of immediate "improvement" I will feel on Day Two. Will I easily be able to feel if the L 2-5 work was enough? Anyone have this experience that can share?