What do we know about Kate Middleton’s abdominal surgery?
KATE MIDDLETON has received well wishes from royal fans across the country after undergoing surgery.
The Princess of Wales was admitted for an abdominal procedure in January 2024, just weeks after her last public appearance on Christmas Day.
What do we know about Kate Middleton's abdominal surgery?
Kate Middleton arrived at The London Clinic, the UK's largest independent private hospital, for a planned abdominal procedure on Tuesday January 16, 2024.
She underwent successful surgery and was said to be "doing well" in hospital following the operation.
It has been reported that Prince William's wife was not admitted for surgery relating to cancer.
The Palace has not, however, given a reason for the private medical matter.
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Shortly after news of Kate's surgery broke, Kensington Palace released an official statement.
The statement read: "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate.
"She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.
“Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is significant new information to share.
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"The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements. She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible."
According to Sun GP Dr Zoe Williams, planned abdominal surgery could involve any of the vital or reproductive organs such as the stomach, bowel or womb.
The This Morning contributor said: "This might be something that has been bothering her for her whole life which she has not got round to resolving, or an issue that has come to light more recently.
"Two weeks in hospital is longer than we would normally expect, but she doesn't have a normal life.
"She's the future queen so the doctors will be erring on the side of caution.
"We all hope it is something minor and the surgery is straightforward, but precaution is wise.
"With anything medical you can never be completely certain how things will go.
"The most important thing is that she gets enough recovery time and it’s not too stressful for her and her family."
Has Kate Middleton had surgery in the past?
Kate underwent an operation when she was a child, though details of the surgery have never been revealed to the public.
The procedure left the future Queen with a three-inch scar on the left side of her head, which she often covers with her hair.
She also had an extensive hospital day during her first pregnancy with Prince George.
Kate was admitted to King Edward VII's Hospital in 2012 for severe morning sickness caused by hyperemesis gravidarum.
She also suffered from the condition during her pregnancies with Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis but was treated at home rather than in hospital.
When is Kate Middleton expected to leave hospital?
Kate is expected to remain at The London Clinic for 10 to 14 days after her procedure.
Her surgery took place on January 16, meaning she should be out of hospital by the end of the month.
The earliest Kate would be expected to leave hospital is January 27.
If her recovery goes to plan, Kate's first engagement back would be at the family service at St George's Chapel, Windsor on Easter Sunday.
This would see her return to her duties on March 31.
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Before her surgery, Kate was last seen on Christmas Day 2023.
The royal looked relaxed as she, William and their children George, Charlotte and Louis walked to St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham.