Cording is most unpleasant. I've been affected on and off since 2006 when I had a double mastectomy and implant retreads. A recurrence in 2016 and full axillary clearance stirred it all up again. It's a strange condition that seems poorly understood---general medical concensus is that it is an acute issue, which is interesting given how many people have chronic problems with it.
Given your history, I'm not at all surprised you are reluctant to risk more injury, but give yourself a bit of time to mull it over and discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Mxx