Tommy John Surgery

What to expect

• Performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, typically taking about one to one and a half hours.
• A tendon graft, often from the forearm or hamstring, is woven through the elbow bones to rebuild the ligament.
• A brace protects the elbow for the first several weeks while motion is gradually restored.
• A structured throwing program typically begins around four months after surgery.
• Return to competitive pitching commonly takes twelve to eighteen months; position players and non-throwers often return sooner.

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Common questions

How long is recovery from Tommy John surgery?

For pitchers, return to competition commonly takes twelve to eighteen months, moving through strength work and a progressive throwing program. Non-throwing activities return much sooner.

Does a UCL tear always need surgery?

No. Partial tears are often treated first with rest, physical therapy, and a gradual return to throwing; some athletes also discuss newer repair options with their surgeon. Reconstruction is typically for complete tears or failed non-surgical care in throwers.

What is the difference between UCL repair and reconstruction?

Repair stitches the athlete's own ligament, sometimes with reinforcing tape, and may allow a faster return in select tears. Reconstruction replaces the ligament with a graft and remains the standard for many complete tears, candidacy depends on tear location and tissue quality.

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