After 5 years of pain ive just discovered i have a tear in the tendon that runs round the outside of the ankle?

I have had physio/hydro therapy and nothing has helped. I am now off to see a surgeon. Does anyone know whether the length of time i have had the injury will stop any operation being successful. Also are there any non surgical treatments. I am also quite over weight (100lbs less heavy than I was after having a gastric byp), will the surgeon still carry out the operation? Other than my weight I am fit and active and exercise by walking most days from 30-60 mins when my ankle pain allows.