Former Premier Danny Williams will undergo open heart surgery at an undisclosed location on Tuesday.

A family member told VOCM that “during a recent annual check up, it was discovered that Danny has a leak in his aortic valve and it requires a replacement.”

VOCM was told this is somewhat similar to the former premier’s previous surgery, except during the first operation, it was a mitral valve repair.

Williams, who is now 70, had his first open heart surgery in early 2010 at the Mount Sinai Medical Centre in Miami, Florida when he was still premier of NL. He faced criticism for having the procedure done in the United States.

At that time, Williams was unapologetic for the decision to go south, saying “this is my heart, it’s my health and it’s my choice.”

The family spokesperson would not confirm where Tuesday’s operation will take place, but did say it won’t be done in Newfoundland.

Williams is said to be feeling good and very optimistic about a “successful surgery and recovery.”