The 27-year-old, who suffered a minor cartilage tear in his left knee in the Swans’ clash with Gold Coast last weekend, is expected to miss two weeks with the injury, including this weekend’s blockbuster clash with Port Adelaide.
Speaking to SwansTV, Tippett said while he was disappointed to be sidelined for this weekend’s big match, his surgery was a success and he was on course for a speedy recovery.
“I was fortunate enough to have surgery first thing on Tuesday, and as soon as possible, and we cleaned up my knee, which was good,” Tippett said.
“I walked out of the hospital and since then I’ve been recovering well and I’m very happy with how it’s going.
“I’ve been able to get back into the gym and hopefully I’ll start moving and running in the short term.”
Tippett, who sustained the injury when he twisted his knee awkwardly in the third quarter of last week’s match, admitted he did have some concerns at the time that the injury was more serious.
Fortunately for the forward, who had already missed seven matches this season due to knee tendonitis and a rib injury, the prognosis from the Swans medical staff was positive.
“I wasn’t too sure at the time because I hadn’t hurt my knee like that before,” he said.
“It was a bit of an unreal feeling because I couldn’t really straighten my leg, so I was a bit concerned.
“But after having the chats to the doctors and the physios, I now know that it was a minor operation and something that should heal pretty well.
“I’ve been able to look after the swelling and the rest of it has healed really well.
“I had a good surgeon and have been in the best care with the doctors and physios here, so I’m looking forward to getting back out on the park as soon as I can.”
Tippett said it would be difficult to watch on as his team mates tackle ladder leaders Port Adelaide on Saturday, but added that he was confident his team mates could post a big home win.
“It’s one we’ve been looking forward to, to be able to play the team that’s on top of the table and test ourselves out,” he said.
“Unfortunately I won’t be (out) there, but the team is ready to go and we’re in good form, so it’s going to be a great one to watch, although it is going to be hard for me to watch from the sidelines.”
Tippett said he hoped to return to the field in round 15, when the Swans host GWS at the SCG.
“It would be awesome to be back out on the SCG against GWS,” he said.
“That would be a really good result, so I can’t wait.”
