Ospreys lock Jones, 27, suffered the injury towards the end of the first half of Wales' disappointing defeat to Argentina last Saturday and was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the autumn series.
Scans on the injury have revealed the Ospreys skipper needs to undergo surgery to reconstruct his AC joint ligaments, and he will go under the knife later this week before facing a lengthy recovery.
Ospreys physio Chris Towers said: "He is due to undergo the surgery at the end of this week, and we will be looking at a 12-16 week rehab process post-op to get him back on the field."
The injury is a significant blow to the Ospreys as Jones will definitely miss the remainder of their testing Heineken Cup Pool Two campaign, with crucial games against Toulouse (twice), Leicester and Treviso still to come.
It is also doubtful Jones will be fit for the start of the Six Nations.
A 16-week absence would see the Lions second row miss the first three games of Wales' campaign against Ireland, France and Italy.
Gilbert has released a new line of rugby cleats. The Gilbert Virtuo 8S is part of the exciting new product. Check it out.
The Barbarians are one of the top invitational rugby sides with a long history and classic rugby jersey.
The Nike Tiempo is a solid rugby cleat and one of few styles still made from full-grain natural leather.
The Lions get ready for their matches with this green training jersey. It's what the players wear. Get in the Gear!
A cool looking all black rugby cleat with the high performance adidas is known for. Get in the Gear!
Wear the crest of the British and Irish Lions on your t-shirt. A great look for the summer.
$29.99
The Lions are ready to get their Australia tour underway. They arrive in Perth on Monday.
The New Zealand All Blacks training jersey for 2013/14. Get in the Gear!
The USA Rugby Pro Alternate rugby jersey is perfect for any fan of the Eagles. Get yours to wear during the summer Test matches.
The NEW All Blacks 2013/14 jersey has arrived at World Rugby Shop. Dare to wear the colors of the All Blacks.
