As one of last year's top rebounders in the Big Ten, Aaron Johnson is no stranger to physical play. Jarring collisions, elbows and battles for the ball have taken their toll on the sophomore forward, however, as he is out indefinitely after having surgery for a detached retina in his right eye.

The surgery was deemed successful, according to Penn State Sports Information, but no time frame was given for his recovery and there is no estimate on how many games he will miss. Although there is no specific time frame, the injury is a fairly serious one that can take an extended period of time to heal.

According to Penn State coach Ed DeChellis, the affliction was not a sudden occurrence. The initial problem came from a poke in the eye during last season and had worsened to a level where it required surgery. Johnson had been reportedly experiencing blurred vision recently, which led to the discovery of the problem.

"It's a previously existing injury that just came to the forefront," DeChellis said. "It's just one of those freak things that happens. He took a finger in the eye last year and eventually it just gradually deteriorated to the point where he started having some complications. He had to get it taken care of."

Johnson had surgery on his eye on Monday at Penn State Hershey Medical Center and has yet to return to campus for class or practice.

DeChellis, though not permitted to discuss specific details about the extent of the injury, was optimistic about Johnson's recovery.

"Aaron is doing fine," DeChellis said. "I spoke to him this morning and we expect him on campus this weekend. He was not permitted to come back to class yet but permitted to be bedridden for the rest of the week."

Johnson, who appeared to have no problems at men's basketball media day last Tuesday, had not complained before about his vision or any problems relating to his injury before the past few weeks, according to DeChellis.

How much time Johnson misses may be dependent on the extent of the injury, whether he had a full or partial tear of the retina and how many tears there were altogether. Johnson could miss anywhere from six to nine weeks if things go well, or the injury could be debilitating enough to force a premature end to his career.

Fortunately for Johnson, the problem was diagnosed early enough as to not cause serious problems with his vision. In the case of a detached retina, the earlier the diagnosis is made, the faster and more complete the chance of recovery is.

DeChellis' tone at practice yesterday was optimistic, though he said he wants to hear more after some follow-up tests tomorrow in Hershey.

The question now for Johnson may not be if he is able to play, but if he is willing to take the risk. People who have suffered retinal detachments have an increased likelihood of further detachments, especially in the non-affected eye.

Johnson, who plays power forward, would have to face tough competition for rebounds around the basket, with many chances of being hit in the eye or head to cause another occurrence. Known as one of the most physical presences on the team, the injury may cause Johnson to be more tentative if and when he returns.

Johnson was expected to start and see a significant amount of playing time on the Nittany Lion baseline this season. He is a former walk-on who led the team in rebounding last year and finished second in the Big Ten in the category. Senior Ndu Egekeze would be the most likely candidate to see more playing time if Johnson is out for an extended period of time.

Johnson has previously had problems with academics, so one of DeChellis' concerns is getting him back in the classroom, which he believes will be next week.

"I expect to see him hopefully here next Sunday night and then have him back in class by Monday," DeChellis said.