Kensington Palace has announced that Duchess Kate, 42, the wife of Prince William and heir to the throne, has undergone surgery at the private London Clinic.
The surgery took place on Wednesday, and she is expected to remain hospitalised for a period of 10 to 14 days before returning home for recovery.
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The palace has assured the public that the condition for which Kate underwent surgery is non-cancerous.
A spokesperson for the palace issued a statement on behalf of the Duchess.
“The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate,” the statement said.
“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,” she said.
Shortly after Kate’s surgery was disclosed, Buckingham Palace revealed that King Charles, 75, will undergo a “corrective procedure” next week.
The palace clarified that Charles’s condition is benign, and he is seeking treatment for an enlarged prostate, a common issue affecting thousands of men each year.
Both royals were last seen publicly on Christmas Day during the annual royal family visit to a church service near King Charles’ Sandringham home in eastern England.
While they appeared to be in good health, the recent health developments have prompted adjustments in their schedules.
Kensington Palace indicated that updates on Kate’s progress would be provided only when there is “significant new information to share.”
Following medical advice, it is unlikely that she will return to public duties until after Easter.
Prince William, 41, will also postpone several engagements to support his wife during her recovery.
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