Federica Brignone: The orthopedic surgeon speaks plainly after the surgery; recovery timeline established

On Tuesday, Federica Brignone underwent surgery to remove the implants that had been placed in her left knee following the operation on April 3, 2025. The procedure, performed under general anesthesia at the “La Madonnina” clinic in Milan by Dr. Andrea Panzeri, president of the FISI Medical Commission, was a complete success: the two-time Olympic champion will be able to gradually resume physical activity within a few weeks.

Dr. Panzeri himself recounted the day of the surgery, describing in detail the condition of the knee and the prospects for recovery. “Federica’s arthroscopic surgery went well; we removed the bone spur, and I must say that we found the knee to be in almost better condition than I had expected.”

“The cruciate ligament was also in fairly good condition, as was the meniscus,” added Dr. Panzeri. “Now the surgical scar will need to heal, but all in all, I’m satisfied. I think she’ll be able to return to her activities in 4–6 weeks. Of course, I can’t make any guarantees regarding pain, but I found the joint to be in fairly good condition, so there’s a good chance the pain will improve quickly.”

The doctor’s words offer a glimmer of hope: after a difficult few months (during which Federica Brignone nonetheless achieved her Olympic miracle) and a recovery process that required patience and focused effort, the Italian champion is finally seeing a clearer path ahead. Her knee is responding well, the joint structure is sound, and the pain—her constant companion these past months—is set to subside quickly.