Emerging Sydney Swans midfielder Dan Robinson is recovering well from reconstructive shoulder surgery, but remains a long shot to play senior footy again in 2016.

Robinson dislocated his right shoulder twice in the Swans' round seven win over Essendon at the SCG, and is set to miss at 10-12 weeks after surgeons recommended an operation was the best way forward.

The length of the recovery means that at best Robinson will be ready to play around round 19-20, which would give him a month or so in the NEAFL to try and force his way into coach John Longmire's powerful midfield unit.

The 21-year-old showed promise in four appearances last season, but had played every game in 2016 before he went down against the Bombers, providing the Swans with a handy runner off the bench.

A natural ball-winner, Robinson averaged over 13 possessions and five tackles per game this year, and Swans general manager football Tom Harley said the Swans will be patient with his rehabilitation.

"It was a tough break," he said.

"He's a young player who was really starting to make inroads in his career, so there's certainly no rush to do anything drastic.

"We'll be conservative, he's got a lot of footy to go (in his career).

"It's unfortunate for him given he's played a lot of senior footy this year, but I'm sure he'll recover well."