I think that your new hairline is just right. If you start chasing after your youth, you're only setting yourself up for disappointment. Modest goals are the only way to be satisfied with surgery.
Yep, that's why I started that sentence with "Obviously for the usual reasons of donar preservation and the hairline aging ok"
I only wish that I could say the same thing for myself. I've been dithering about whether or not to get surgery for 10 years, all the while barely living my life, avoiding social engagements and hiding under a hat. Sorry for the self-pity, but I feel like this forum is the only outlet I have for venting feelings. Whenever I try to broach the subject with friends, they basically tell me to "man the f*** up" or "get over yourself." Anyway, I appreciate your efforts to try to remove the stigma surrounding hair loss, particularly the stigma that surrounds being concerned about hair loss and wanting to do something about it. All the best.
It sounds like you really would be happier if you did something about this. I think this is one of those things where because it feels like a choice, as opposed to needing to do some type of medical procedure to, for example, save your life (which is still actually a choice, it's just an easier one to make) that it's so easy to worry about regret. It's something that's irreversable, so it's easier to put it off, as you still then have a choice but to go ahead, if it's not right for you , you can't take it back.
I've been in that situation twice now. I'm not one to jump into things (sounds like you are the same) and so after much deliberation and research I decided to do it. I can honestly say on both occasions it has 100% been the right thing to do, and it wasn't until afterwards that I realised quite how much it was needed. Meaning there's no way I'd ever go back (if it was possible of course). Obviously we are all different, but I feel you sound very much like me.
It also sounds like those around you are having an impact on your choices too. Only guessing of course! But I've also been there, and it stops you doing what's right for you.
Have you been for a consultation with anyone? Even if you don't go with that surgeon it would give you a great indication as to whether tiy are a good candidate or not. Obviously many (probably most) clinics will just tell you that you are, but for example I know Dr Reddy is quite strict on this and from my experience I would trust his judgment. So if you researched and saw someone like that, they could basically give you your answer. If they say it's not good for you in the long term, then at least you'll know and can stop agonising over the decision to or not, and if they think you are then it's 99.99999% likely you'll be happier if you do it.
Only you can decide in the end though, I'm just adding my thoughts.