SYDNEY Swans ruckman Kurt Tippett wil be out for at least eight weeks after undergoing surgery on his injured left hamstring tendon.
The Swans initially hoped Tippett would be able to avoid surgery and return within six weeks, but after consultation with a surgeon, the club determined surgery was the best option.
The big ruck-forward faces a race to be back fit and in form for the finals, with a projected earliest return date of round 21.
"We wanted to ensure the best possible outcome for Kurt, so our medical team conducted extensive consultation and research on the best way to heal this type of injury," Harley said.
"The decision to operate was made yesterday and Kurt underwent surgery in Melbourne last night to have a procedure on his tendon.
"The surgery was a success and we're hopeful Kurt will be ready to return in eight weeks."
The 29-year-old has been in career-best form so far in 2016 after taking over from retired 2012 premiership ruckman Mike Pyke this season.
The Swans face Melbourne and their star ruckman Max Gawn on Sunday at the SCG, with off-season recruit Callum Sinclair thrust into the No.1 ruck role.