Grant Hackett was expected to resume training in December after this week's shoulder surgery was deemed a success.

Hand and upper limb specialist surgeon Dr Greg Hoy on Wednesday night said the Australian swimming team captain had successfully undergone a shoulder arthroscopy in Melbourne on Tuesday night that forced him to withdraw from March's Commonwealth Games.

Dr Hoy said the two-time Olympic 1500m champion's shoulder was expected to return to "full function".

"Grant underwent an arthroscopic assessment on Tuesday evening," he said.

"This assessment showed that the joint cartilage was in better condition than would be expected in this situation, and that the problem lay in the space around the outside of the tendons concerned.

"Grant has had inflammation in the space around these tendons, which had produced scarring.

"The inflammatory tissue was resected (removed) and the rubbing tissues were smoothed down.

"He did not require any reconstruction work and after recovery from the surgery and with thorough rehabilitation, he would be expected to return to full function."

Hackett's manager Chris White added: "Grant has been resting all day today and he has asked that we pass on his sincere thanks to the overwhelming support shown by everyone".

White said Hackett would enjoy another rest day on Thursday but would be "available for comment shortly".

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