X-rays have detected a reason for Fontiton's unplaced run in Saturday's Group I Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m) on Caulfield.
Fontiton joined the leaders early in the straight but weakened late to finish fifth to Pride Of Dubai in the $1 million contest.
Trainer Robert Smerdon said Fontiton pulled up with two bone chips in her off foreleg.
"They were very clean chips so she will have surgery to remove those this week," Smerdon said.
Fontiton was always heading for a spell after the Blue Diamond Stakes but Smerdon said the Turffontein filly would be back for the spring.
Fontiton's stablemate Thurlow also finished out of the placings in the Blue Diamond but Smerdon said that filly was one of the chief sufferers of early interference.
Thurlow will also head to the spelling paddock for a break before Smerdon looks for 1000m races in her next campaign.
The Caulfield trainer said Shamal Wind had pulled up well after she recorded her maiden Group I win in the Oakleigh Plate (1100m).
"It was a dream result for her," Smerdon said.
"She was never going to the Newmarket but The Galaxy in Sydney might be an option for her."