Hi, I am 49 years old, had a broken femur as a result of car accident when I was 16.They inserted surgical?

screws to fuse the bone, and up till about 3 years ago no problem. now they hurt, and rub, and cause swelling when I do heavy stuff. I need to have them taken out, and orthopedist says he can do it, but will be difficult since bone have grown around screwheads. Has anyone undergone this screw removal? especially after they have been infor years? Whats your expirience? how much recovery time is generally needed. I have a basically sedentary job, but I move around a bit. Thanks for any advice.