I wanted to drop you a note to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Spire Harpenden for my superb care after having my breast reduction procedure on 19 July.
My 6 week post-op check-up was smooth and uncomplicated. My experience before, during and after my operation was completely stress and worry free.
I would like to pass on my gratitude to everyone involved but particularly to my surgeon, Mr Hyder Ridha and nurse Teresa Jellis. They both have been beyond outstanding and I genuinely feel my experience couldn’t have been made easier because of their expertise and their care.
I have thought about a breast reduction for many years now, it is something which has not only caused physical issues for me, but also mental ones which I am sure is the case for many. I wasn’t keen on going through the NHS for the procedure because I wanted to choose my own surgeon.
I was prepared to go to several hospitals to find the surgeon for me, however, within minutes of meeting Mr Ridha and Teresa at my first consultation I knew I was going ahead with the procedure, and that I had found the right surgeon. I was instantly put at ease and given all the information I required but there was no hard sell or pressure to go ahead with the procedure, in fact I felt like it was me pressuring Mr Ridha into giving me a date!
I was told by Mr Ridha to ideally lower my BMI to go ahead with the procedure – it gave me the kick up the backside I needed, and since that day have gone on to lose over 2 stone in weight (only 5lb of that was boobs!). Another thing I will always be grateful to him for.
From the second I woke up from my operation, I knew I’d made the right decision and I have not looked back. The girls on the ward were fantastic, friendly and there for everything I needed. The majority of operations are not going to be pain-free, but with the advice given by Spire Harpenden, and pain relief provided, it really wasn’t anywhere near as sore as I expected.
Mr Ridha is a genius in my eyes, I can’t even think of another word to describe him. I should have felt anxious going into theatre and lost count over the number of people asking me if I was nervous, but I genuinely didn’t have a single worry, which shows the faith that I had in him and his team. I gave Mr Ridha a guideline of the size I wanted, but felt more than confident leaving the final look/size up to him. I was definitely right to this and he made the perfect choice for me. I love my new breasts so much already and I can’t recommend him highly enough for this procedure.
Teresa has been an angel and been there every step of the way, and nothing is too much trouble for her. I think my recovery would have been nowhere near as stress free if she wasn’t there to drop me a little message of reassurance every now and again. She has been a rock to me and is such a huge asset to Spire Harpenden – I cannot praise her enough. I have never been made to feel like any question is a silly one or that anything is too much bother. I must admit that I’m a little sad that my check-ups are all finished!
People have already noticed a difference in my personality and confidence and that is all thanks to Mr Ridha, Teresa and every member of staff who was involved in my care along the way. My time at Spire has exceeded all my expectations and for that I wanted to thank you all.
Mr Ridha’s personal comments about the patient:
"It was a pleasure to look after this delightful lady who was an ideal candidate for a breast reduction. Being well motivated and having realistic expectations is key to a successful result in all surgery. From the outset she listened to the advice given and asked questions to address her concerns, all of which helped her prepare for her journey. I am delighted that she has had a fantastic result and a great experience - a testament to the team here at Spire Harpenden. It brings me great joy to have had such positive impact on a person’s life"