Share review of Mr Paul Thiruchelvam

Mr Paul Thiruchelvam 2019-05-13 Person 5 5 0

I was referred to the Breast Clinic at Charing Cross Hospital by my GP in Mid March, having noticed a slight change to the contour of my right breast. I was seen by Paul Thiruchelvam, who conducted the initial review and followed up with the usual tests - mammograms, ultrasound scans and an inevitable biopsy. Paul came across as hugely professional and knowledgeable, and the fact that he did not "sugar coat" the likely diagnosis, strangely comforted me and made me feel that he was someone who would treat me with respect and honesty. A week or so later, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer and although the tests had not shown anything suspicious elsewhere, I was advised to have an MRI scan. The MRI showed no cancer elsewhere in either breast, so having explained all the different options, he recommended a lumpectomy in the right breast (to remove the cancer and surrounding tissue) and surgery to the left breast to ensure that they were not of a different size - something that I had never considered, but which is critical to a successful outcome. He was very thorough and explained everything in a clear but detailed fashion; I felt totally at ease with the planned surgery and knew exactly what to expect. My surgery took place on April 1st - I kid you not!! Paul was there for all of the pre-op preparation and again on the ward later that day to offer reassurance and explain how things had gone. His approach is wholly refreshing and has made me realise that despite reports to the contrary, surgeons can show empathy and true concern for the well being of their patients. I have radiotherapy and hormone treatment to follow, but count myself as very lucky to have been assigned to Paul. And of course, I have been blessed with the best outcome possible under the circumstances. I am very pleased with my new breasts - they are smaller but more perky - and make great "sisters". I would highly recommend Paul and all of his team, to anyone who finds themselves in a similar predicament.