Pittsburgh, PA -- (Sports Network) - Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Ryan Whitney underwent surgery on his left foot Saturday and will miss at least the start of the 2008-09 season.

The procedure was performed to help correct a chronic condition, and the recovery time is expected to take three to five months. He could be sidelined until mid-January.

"Ryan has been bothered by this condition in his foot for some time," said Penguins general manager Ray Shero. "He consulted with a number of specialists in an effort to correct the problem without surgery, but it was ultimately determined that surgery was the best path to take -- for his general well- being, and for his career.

"Obviously, he will miss the start of the 2008-09 season, but the doctors tell us he will be able to play pain-free when he returns to the lineup this season."

Whitney notched 12 goals and 28 assists for 40 points in 76 games during the 2007-08 season. He added a goal and five assists in 20 playoff games, as the Penguins made a run to the Stanley Cup Finals.

In 225 regular-season games with Pittsburgh, the 25-year-old Boston native has registered 32 goals with 105 assists for 137 points.