I hope that my input is okay seeing as I'm still pretty new here...

The health issue alone is reason enough to do what you have to do. I've been under similar circumstances before, and have a pretty big scar as proof. Knowing that the procedure is important for long term health unfortunately doesn't diminish the frear and uncertainty that the prospect of surgery brings.

I wish you the best with this, and it sounds like you are looking at it the right way - and that is the best way to move forward!