Justin Smith’s, whose status for the playoffs was questionable just a few weeks ago, will undergo surgery on his left triceps after the Super Bowl.

Jan 27, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Justin Smith (94) speaks during a press conference at the Marriott New Orleans after arriving in New Orleans to discuss their upcoming game in Super Bowl XLVII to be held February 3, 2013. Mandatory Credit: Tyler Kaufman-USA TODAY Sports

Smith has been play with a burden in the playoffs. There’s a good chance that the tear in his triceps could expand, which would further derail his long-term health. Though Smith, who reportedly has a surgery lined up for just a few days after the Super Bowl, will have the surgery regardless if the tear has increased or not.

In order to play—effectively, at least—Smith has been playing with a brace that keeps his triceps in order. Obviously, it limits his range of motion, but he’s been playing well despite the obstacles.

“I can do more stuff every week,” Smith told reporters Sunday. “I think it heals up, obviously, as more time goes by and it’s feeling better.”

Smith has just 60 more minutes of football left before the pain in his shoulder will be vanquished.