Steroid Injections or Surgery?

I have a herniated disc in my lumbar area (L4 & L5) to be exact. I have only seen one doctor & I'm getting an appointment for a second opinion. The only neurosurgeon I've seen so far told me she wanted to start giving me steroid injections without even seeing my MRI results! It seems to me that this wouldn't be a permanent solution to the problem. Does anyone have any advice for me? Please, NO sarcastic or jerky remarks...thank you!