A bit late (been a while since I logged in), but just wanted to welcome you and share my story.
It's been almost eight years (July 2015) when I had my SMP done.
I actually had surgery, but I was to remove a keloid and a cyst in the back of my head. I've been MPB since about my late 20's but I didn't shave until about 35. I did the SMP mostly because it was more cost effective to do the whole head, instead of covering the scars....however, SMP was not as advanced then as it is now....But if you do get the SMP, be sure to shop around....sometimes, the lowest price doesn't get the best results.
Again, welcome, and feel free to PM me if you have any questions!