Health Minister Awad Tageddin announced that the president was in 'good health' and was 'currently in the recovery room' following the surgery, which took place on 26 June. Just days before the operation, Mubarak appeared on Egyptian television to deny reports that he was in failing health.

Mubarak was accompanied to Germany by his wife Suzanne and their two sons Gamal and Alaa. Gamal Mubarak has often been touted as his father's natural successor, although the president has consistently denied the claims. Prime Minister Atef Obeid has been acting president during Mubarak's absence.