I had fusion L4-S1 in 2007 loose screws replaced 2009 with BMP still no bone growth I don,t smoke but do drink alcohol I do get severe pain but you learn to manage how you are, I'm now 55 my advise is take it very steady try to do core exercise but listen to what you body tells you and you should not have to have any more surgery, the thought of that frightens me as well.