Dolly Parton surgery claims

Dolly Parton has reportedly had surgery as she feared developing cancer in the future.

The country music star is alleged to have dropped 20lbs. recently following health problems. According to National Enquirer she began struggling to eat anything other than soft foods and feared she was at risk of developing oesophageal cancer.

"She researched her condition and knew that, without treatment, developing cancer was a real possibility. Dolly always projects an upbeat, positive image, but underneath that she was terrified," an insider told the publication.

It is claimed that she underwent an operation to have a cutting-edge device implanted into her oesophagus, which is also known as the gullet and helps food pass into the stomach.

The 67-year-old was worried about causing her friends and family undue concern, which is why it is claimed she kept the surgery secret.

"Dolly knew something had to be done - or she could die," the source alleged.

"Her weight was dropping dramatically, she was chugging anti-acid medication, and she couldn't eat anything but soft, bland foods."

The publication claims Dolly went under the knife at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Her personal doctor was on hand to discuss the procedure with medics there, having jetted in from Los Angeles.

"Dolly was worried at first that she wouldn't be able to have the procedure. When she learned about this treatment, she knew it was her last hope," the source continued.

"The procedure was supposed to last just two hours, but it took five. When it was over, Dolly said she wanted to get on her bus and head home that same day. But the doctors insisted that she stay overnight for observation, and the next day Dolly walked to her bus and climbed on board for the eight-hour trip back to Nashville."