GWS star Toby Greene will undergo surgery on the same ankle he hurt late last season.
Greene suffered the injury in the Giants’ Semi-Final defeat to Collingwood in September.
The 25-year-old is expected to return to full training after Christmas.
“It’s unfortunate that Toby has suffered this setback but by making this decision now, we won’t run the risk of him missing any games,” GWS’ Head of Athletic Performance David Joyce told the club’s website.
“No doubt once the surgery has been completed, Toby will vigorously attack his rehab.”
Greene has played 126 for the Giants but only managed nine last year through injury.