Hi Roger. Years ago (in about 1990) I tore the ligaments in my left ankle playing indoor mixed netball. I was on crutches for something like 6 weeks, and it took probably 10 - 12 weeks to be able to walk on it properly again. Still gives me grief at times.
Then in 2009 I had a cricket injury that required a full elbow recon, like an ACL type operation, but in the arm. Basically, my bicep muscle ended up under my armpit. Within 2 weeks I had an operation that required metal sutures to reattach the ligaments and reposition the bicep muscle, and I ended up with a scar Harry Potter would be proud of. My arm was in a back-splint for 11 weeks. I can tell you that my arm is now in much better condition structurally than by ankle will ever be. If your surgeon recomends it, and you can afford the time &/or hospital costs, get it done.
I also got turf toe about 3 years ago. Funny story. Long, but funny.
Thought it would heal OK by itself, but it hasn't.
Good luck.
Stew.