Waratahs doctor Sharron Flahive said the operation to repair ligament damage in Waugh's left ankle went well, with recuperation expected to take three months.

"Surgery was definitely the right option for Phil," Flahive told the Australian Associated Press (AAP)

"The damage was severe but the medial ligament has been repaired and we are optimistic about a quick recovery."

Waugh injured his left ankle in the first minute of his team's weekend loss to the Cheetahs in Kimberley.

He initially feared that he would miss the remainder of the Super 14 season, but McKenzie today said Waugh could be available in May.

The regular season finishes in the first weekend of May, with the semi-finals and final on the following two weekends.

"At this point he's out for three months, but with Phil's dedication and our advanced rehabilitation program run by Charlie Higgins we're not ruling out a return sometime in May," McKenzie said.

AAP