L5-S1 Fusion at age 36? Should I be wary?

I first got diagnosed with a herniated disk at L5-S1 in 2015. I ended up getting 2 Microdiscectomys that did end up helping for about 10 years. (Also had an left side L4-L5 Microdiscectomy in 2023) Earlier this year I began to have nerve pain again in my leg and since March have found myself riding a roller coaster of pain that has left me unable to fully function. I have tired a multitude of different treatments including ART, physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, red light therapy, and steroid injections. I have visited with a new surgeon and my previous surgeon. The new surgeon suggested a 3rd discectomy while my previous surgeon is really pushing for a fusion. He states that by going to the fusion now we eliminate complications that could arise from another discectomy and that I could benefit from gaining the stability from the fusion.

Long story short, I’m scared to get a fusion at 36 years old. I want to get my life back and know that fusions can be successful but also don’t want to compromise my back for the rest of my life. I’ve heard a lot of people say they wish they hadn’t gotten the fusion and don’t want to do it unless I absolutely have to. What are some of your experiences? Should I be as wary of a fusion as I am?