ACL problems

Hi,
I'm new to the forum, and looking for a bit of advice about my dodgy knees!

I'm a 22 year old student, keen hockey player that was playing to quite a high level until I suffered a string of knee injuries.

At 19 I sustained a right knee injury playing hockey. After 2 months of physio treatment on a suspected cartilage injury I went private to see a surgeon. After an MRI he confirmed that I had partially torn my ACL, but the scar tissue had formed well and the decision was made not to operate, but to undergo intensive physiotherapy and rehab to strengthen leg muscles, and core muscles. I didn't play hockey for 8 months

Two years later I suffered an injury under similar circumstances to my left knee. Once again I paid for physio treatment, underwent a lot of rehab, and returned to hockey within about 6 months.

Almost 2 months ago, I suffered yet another knee injury in almost identical circumstances, this time it was my right knee again. My physio reckons its another ACL injury, and referred me. Being a student I can't afford private treatment and am currently on the NHS waiting list to see a surgeon.

7 weeks later, still limping badly, still without full ROM- can't fully straighten, or bend bearing weight, still in a lot of pain. It's got to the stage now where it is seriously interfering with my teacher training. At the minute my main priority is getting through my last year at uni, hockey comes after that.

I'd really appreciate it if anyone could give me some advice. Do I risk permanent damage the longer it hasn't been seen to? If I am given the option of surgery or rehab, which should I choose? Is it worth getting a loan to go private?

Thanks,
Katie