I've been having peroneal tendon problems off and on for a couple years. docs say they are subluxating and may be torn. can i put off surgery safely?

Sometimes: Subluxation injuries of the peroneal tendons are problematic. Some advocate surgery, others advocate conservative care. An MRI will be definitive for the severity of injury to the peroneal complex, but in most cases, these injuries can be treated conservatively with success.

No harm: I actually had the same problem and had it repaired some years ago. Unless you have balance issues related to your tendon injury, there is no direct harm to you by waiting.