Prince Philip's friends and family are sending their best wishes to the 96-year-old following his hip replacement operation. A well-wisher was seen delivering flowers to his hospital on Wednesday, just hours after the surgery. Police officers have been standing on guard outside the King Edward VII hospital in central London, where Philip is recovering.
The Queen's husband was admitted to hospital on Tuesday afternoon for the planned surgery. The following day, Buckingham Palace announced that the Prince was "in good spirits". In a statement they said: "The Duke of Edinburgh has undergone a successful hip replacement operation. He is progressing satisfactorily at this early stage. His Royal Highness is likely to remain in hospital for several days. He is comfortable and in good spirits. Further updates will be issued when appropriate."
© Photo: WENNPrince Philip receives flowers at hospital
Members of the royal family are expected to go and see Prince Philip in hospital over the next few days. It's likely that his grandsons Prince William and Prince Harry, who are based in London, will pay a visit. Back in June 2012, they were pictured leaving the King Edward VII hospital, where their grandfather was recovering from a bladder infection.
MORE: Prince Philip forced to pull out of engagement
The Duke is known for his active lifestyle and has generally enjoyed good health. But in his more advanced years, he has faced a number of scares. In October 2011, he pulled out of an overnight stay in Italy because of a cold, shortly after a busy 11-day official royal tour of Australia. Just weeks later, Philip, then 90, was rushed to hospital by helicopter from Sandringham, after suffering chest pains.
© Photo: WENNThe Prince has had a successful hip replacement operation
In August 2012, Philip again suffered a bladder infection and spent five nights at the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. He had been enjoying his summer break at Balmoral in Aberdeenshire. In 2013 on his 92nd birthday, the Prince found himself in hospital in London for an exploratory operation on his abdomen. He underwent surgery under general anaesthetic and recuperated at Sandringham.
MORE: Prince Philip's most memorable quotes
Philip officially retired from royal duties in summer 2017, with the full support of his wife. At the time, the palace stressed that his decision was not health-related and that he would, on occasion, still attend events with Her Majesty.
