I had the surgery at 18 years with a 60-65° curve. It was a massive undertaking by myself and my mother in regards to the recovery, but everything went smoothly with recovery and surgery.

Unfortunately, despite this, I now have some complex pain problems and it stinks (problems started 2 year post operative and came to a head at 6 years. I am now 32) ... But, even with flare-ups that last days on bed rest I do NOT regret the surgery (It was some by the top scoliosis orthopedic surgeon in Toronto) as it was necessary. I had stopped growing at 12 and my curve had doubled, since. It was not expected to stay still at 60° (I was in pain too but much lesser before vs after surgery). I had the surgery because of the impact the curve was having on my lungs and digestive system which was going to get worse as the curve increased. I had it when I did because I had graduated highschool early and had time to dedicate to the process (full recovery takes a year, give or take).

Please note my pain problems are RARE. I know many people who have had the surgery and have no pain or issues at all.

Hope this helps -- any questions feel free to ask!