Donna - you really should have it done if the doc says it needs to be done. Even if the tear isn't too bad, it can get worse, and you could end up in the ER with your knee locked. My knee locked on me with the first one, but luckily I was able to manipulate it and "unlock" it, but a lot of people aren't that lucky. Doc said he didn't know how I was even able to walk, since the cartilage had lodged under the kneecap. Surprisingly enough, it didn't even really hurt much. Go figure.........