Brisbane Lions utility Brent Staker has successfully undergone his first round of surgery on a knee injury that has already ruled him out of the 2012 AFL season.

The Lions said Staker, 27, had pulled up well from last week's surgery but a further operation would be required to stabilise his right knee.

Staker opted for a traditional reconstruction after going down with his second knee injury of the year in the Lions' round 23 loss to West Coast.

"Missing another season is shattering after spending so much time on the sidelines this year," Staker said.

"But it's a challenge, and I'll take on that challenge and do everything I can to get myself ready for when I can return in 2013 that's what I'm focusing on now."

The Lions backed Staker to make a full recovery by 2013.

"It's very disappointing news for Brent - he has been outstanding throughout his rehab process this year and the manner in which he's dealt with it has been exemplary," Lions football manager Dean Warren said.

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