Kate Middleton Spotted In Public For First Time Since January Surgery

Kate Middleton has been seen publicly for the first time since December.

The Princess of Wales, who underwent a planned abdominal surgery  in January, was photographed Monday riding in a car with her mother, Carole Middleton. 

The picture arrives just days after Kensington Palace shut down rumors about the princesses whereabouts , following increased speculation on the internet .

Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timelines of the princess recovery and wed only be providing significant updates, a spokesperson told HuffPost on Friday. That guidance stands. 

The spokesman reiterated that the princess is doing well.

The palace previously announced the timeline for Kates recovery in a statement announcing the royals operation on Jan. 16.

The surgery was successful, and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for 10 to 14 days, before returning home to continue her recovery, the palace shared with HuffPost at the time. Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter. 

Kates health concerns come at a difficult time for the royal family.

Buckingham Palace revealed early last month that King Charles had been diagnosed with cancer , which was discovered during a recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement.

Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer, the palace said at the time. His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. 

The palace specified that Charles will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual. 

Since his diagnosis was publicly revealed, the king has been photographed going to church , and recently held an in-person meeting with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.