Helen’s story
Helen's Story
Age: 58
Location: Surrey
Treatment(s): Tummy Tuck, Liposuction and Hernia repair
“If you’re considering having a Tummy Tuck then I definitely recommend Bella Vou and Amir Sadr - he was absolutely fantastic and the whole team were so supportive.”
Helen, aged 58 from Surrey, had a lot of loose skin after going through menopause. In April 2021, she had a Tummy Tuck with four sites of Liposuction and Hernia repair. Here she shares her experience, plus tips on how to prepare for and recover from surgery.
When you go through menopause, your skin loses elasticity. Although I didn’t have much fat around my stomach, my skin was so loose and my muscles had separated, and it was clear that no amount of gymming was ever going to get my body back to how it was.
I didn’t feel good when I put clothes on, I just felt really frumpy, which wasn’t something I was used to having always been slim. I started to buy baggier clothes and I didn’t feel like myself - I desperately wanted my clothes to fit better. That’s what inspired me to undergo surgery.
I chose Bella Vou and Amir Sadr because of Amir’s brilliant reputation, and I wasn’t disappointed. Amir and the medical staff were great. I had my initial consultation in person, and Amir was very informative and put me at ease. He never made me feel rushed - he’d have been happy to go through all of my questions 10 times if needs be! He was very patient, and I felt really comfortable with him.
I chose Bella Vou and Amir Sadr because of Amir’s brilliant reputation, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Before going into surgery, I think it’s really important to prepare yourself mentally and physically. Eating healthily and getting fit is a big part of that, you really need to look after yourself - I made sure I got as fit as I could before I went ahead with the operation.
On the day of my Tummy Tuck, I was looked after by Joy and Scott, and I couldn't have asked for better care. They explained everything to me really well and made me feel as relaxed as possible. The anaesthetist was fabulous too. After the surgery, the team encouraged me to drink lots of water and to get up and move as quickly as possible. If you follow their advice, there isn’t a great deal of pain - in fact, I barely remember being in any pain after the surgery.
Everything went smoothly, I stayed overnight in the room overlooking the Pantiles, and I felt really comfortable and relaxed there.
Everything went smoothly, I stayed overnight in the room overlooking the Pantiles, and I felt really comfortable and relaxed there.
I had a one week follow up, a six week follow up and I’ve just had my six month follow up. I’ve had the chance to ask lots of questions along the way, and there’s a 24-hour telephone number that you can call anytime.
It’s really important to look after yourself in the first six weeks - drinking lots of water, eating healthily, wearing your garment and taking short walks - gradually building up your steps. At four weeks I was doing 8,000 steps a day, and by 6 weeks I was back up to my usual 10,000 steps. It’s good to keep moving as it reduces puffiness and helps with the healing, but you have to do it sensibly and not push yourself too much. The recovery can be quite tiring, and you shouldn’t expect too much too soon.
Six months down the line, I definitely feel like I’m getting my strength back. I have far better core strength now that my muscles have been stitched back together and my hernia has been repaired, which means that my posture is better. I’m back at the gym now too, and I’ve even started lifting weights.
I have far better core strength now that my muscles have been stitched back together and my hernia has been repaired, which means that my posture is better. I’m back at the gym now too, and I’ve even started lifting weights.
Treatments
REVIEWED WIDELY
ACROSS THESE PLATFORMS
What our
clients
say
What our clients say
★★★★★
I highly recommend Hagen as a surgeon, from start to finish I was completely looked after and all my questions were answered. Hagen was very professional, friendly and responsive to all my questions in the appointments, emails or phone calls. There was no pressure it was all at my pace and when I was ready. He was fantastic at accommodating appointments to be virtually when possible (as I am not local to the clinic) This surgery has changed my life I feel much more confident in myself. So a massive thank you to Hagen and the team at Bella Vou.
CHFOLD
★★★★★
In November 2023 I booked a full abdominoplasty and vaser lipo with Amir. I visited for my initial consult and knew straight away that i had found the right surgeon, Amir was compassionate, knowledgeable and extremely professional. Fast forward to the 18th of January and my surgery day, Amir was understanding of how nerve wracking surgery can be and i felt at ease from the moment I walked into the building. I was in theatre a lot longer than planned due to an umbilical hernia and extra muscle repair, Amir is a perfectionist and made sure all was well and to his high standards before finishing the surgery. I’ve had a minor umbilical complication which is unfortunately one of the risks associated with this procedure. But the aftercare I have received from Amir and his team has been second to none and I could not be happier with my results. I look forward to my umbilical correction in a few months. I really cannot thank Amir enough and would recommend him to anyone looking for a cosmetic surgeon.
RachelG95
★★★★★
Dr Sadr is an incredibly approachable doctor. His attention to detail is excellent and he explained everything very clearly. He listens to any concerns and wants the absolute best result for his patients. The clinic is absolutely beautiful and it felt like a hotel stay rather than a hospital! The nurses and staff were so friendly and helpful. It really does seem like they all enjoy working there and the atmosphere is very positive. The road to recovery is long with a tummy tuck but I have recovered very well and have benefitted from regular check ups and assurance the whole way. I am really happy with my results. I can wear clothes I couldn’t before, and for the first time in 15 years I might just wear a bikini this summer! Would I go back to Bella Vou? Yes definitely. I would recommend to anyone.
anon2269
★★★★★
Amir has been friendly and professional since my first consultation. He has a great way of managing expectations and a wonderful confidence that really kept me calm throughout the process. The clinic has the highest standards of cleanliness, it is a beautiful clinic, It’s always a pleasure to visit! The spa like feel, makes me feel so welcome and relaxed. All staff at Bella Vou are very welcoming, friendly and professional. I am happy with my results so far and so pleased with my recover, I am back to work 2 weeks after and able to do most things as normal. Thank you!
HannahR94
★★★★★
Amir Nakhdjevani and The Bella Vou team – I think that all superlatives have already been used in the reviews I have seen and they are well deserved. It has been 6 months since I decided that as gift to my 60 year old self and after careful research I would undergo a cosmetic procedure with Amir and the BellaVou Clinic- namely an Extended Concept Lower Face and Neck lift… Amir N is an exceptionally gifted and caring surgeon who carefully listened to me.He was transparent, honest & direct in advising me as to what I needed to achieve the outcome I desired… My request was to look refreshed, less tired, without obvious signs of surgery, but still recognisable as me, to my partner and unsuspecting friends.That is exactly what was achieved. Amusingly I have noted professionals in other settings doing a double take when now seeing my year of birth… Every member of the team go above and beyond…Thank you all… I would not hesitate to recommend this organisation and its team of gifted surgeons and support staff for any cosmetic procedure you would wish to undertake, safe in the knowledge that you will receive excellent results with caring and attentive support throughout your journey and beyond.
LittleMissMe
★★★★★
Absolutely phenomenal care from all of the team at Bella Vou. Special thanks to Amir Sadr for my breast augmentation surgery and to Gabriella the RN who looked after me in recovery xx
Anon
★★★★★
I was nervous going into it because I’d never had any experience with surgeries or cosmetic procedures but everyone was so lovely and the experience was very calm and easy. The procedure was so painless and the surgeon and assistants were chatty and made me feel comfortable and let me know what was happening. I was in and out in a few hours. The aftercare was simple and the healing process has been exactly as they had told me. I’m very happy with my result and would definitely recommend.
ellsmata
★★★★★
Had my long awaited procedure on Saturday 23rd March at Bella Vou. The clinic is modern & very luxurious and the team are welcoming & warm. I’d like to give a special thanks to the amazing Consultant Plastic Surgeon Amir Nakhdjevani for his open & honest advice, experience and skills to achieve what I was looking for, to Anaesthesiologist Ravi, who made me laugh ( & I wasn’t sick as promised) to the beautiful nurse Gabriella, who is just so lovely & caring and last but not least the wonderful Bella Vou chauffeur Joe who picked me up at 5:30am and took me home 10 hours later ( 150 miles in all! ) Joe was professional thoughtful and kind. Thank-you also for the unexpected gift bag from The White Company, full of luxury goodies to enjoy ! I couldn’t recommend Bella Vou highly enough & would recommend to all if you are looking for a cosmetic procedure carried out by a friendly experienced team in a beautiful clinic – you won’t find better ! Hope to see you all again next week for my check up x
Mercedes245
★★★★★
I booked in with Mark for an aesthetic assessment. During the consultation, we discussed my concerns and possible treatments. I booked in a few weeks after, for the treatment. I am very happy with my experience. Mark is very knowledgeable and explained each step, which helped me feel at ease. I would be very comfortable recommending Mark to others! Thanks again
Jadereed_8
★★★★★
Amir is an amazing surgeon. He walked me through my breast augmentation step by step, making sure I understood all the risks and what my potential outcome could look like. The main thing that stood out for me is that Amir wouldn’t do anything that wouldn’t suit my body, so was very thorough with managing my expectations as when I said I wanted to go bigger he said it would all depend what he found during surgery as to what would fit best. And I couldn’t be happier! I’m only 3 weeks post op. And my breasts look absolutely wonderful if I say so myself!! I know they won’t fully settle for sometime yet but already I’m totally thrilled. Thank you Amir and all the team at Bella Vou.
Celebrated403326
★★★★★
I gained 5 stones in both of my pregnancies and breast fed for a year with each baby, and despite lots of hard work in the gym, there was no chance that my body would ever recover. At the age of 40, I have good muscle tone and low body fat (bmi of 20), but all of that was hidden under loose and saggy skin. I also had quite a large separation of my abdominal muscles, which meant my stomach protruded, despite being slim… I booked in for a circumferential tummy tuck, breast lift and implants and had my surgery at the end of November. It was a long operation (around 8 hours) and I stayed overnight at the clinic. There were really, *really* lovely nurses caring for me overnight… I’m 4 months ish post surgery and… my body looks AWESOME. Amir should work for Mattel, because he’s given me a body like Barbie. I’ve never had a body this good – even as an 18 year old my boobs weren’t this symmetrical and perky or my stomach this flat. My only regret is that I didn’t do this sooner. So, I can’t rate Amir highly enough, he really is a brilliant surgeon with an astute eye for what will suit his patients, but I also want to praise Bella Vou as a clinic overall. They have really created something special there with their approach, it feels like a boutique experience where they’ve literally anticipated every thing you might need… everyone is brilliant. I would 100% recommend Amir Nakhdjavani and Bella Vou
Energetic280040
★★★★★
I’ve seen Dr. Holmes at Bella Vou for Anti-Wrinkle Injections and tear trough filler. My experience couldn’t be more positive. I’ve previously had Anti-Wrinkle Injections and filler (though not tear trough filler) at another clinic near my home but wasn’t fully satisfied for reasons that I’ll come to. I then had surgery at Bella Vou last year and was so impressed with… well, everything… that I thought I’d try getting my aesthetic treatments done there, too… Tear trough filler was something I was nervous about from a pain perspective, but Dr Holmes used a cannula, and I barely even felt it. In contrast, my previous injector used a syringe for filler and I think this contributed to the discomfort and bruising. Most importantly, the results look fantastic. Very natural, but refreshed. Bella Vou is a 2 hour train or car journey for me, but I’m more than happy to do 4 hours of travel to receive such superior treatment. I can’t recommend Dr Holmes and Bella Vou enough.
Energetic280040Superb, Highly Recommend.
★★★★★
I have met Dr Holmes a couple of times now to discuss certain treatments that would benefit myself. He explains everything in such great detail and listens to my concerns. I feel very relaxed in his presence as I know I am in good hands. I come away feeling very positive about decisions I have made.
Funny159850
★★★★★
My experience with Amir and the Bella Vou clinic has been everything I could have asked for. The surgery went perfectly and the care I received from the whole team both before and after the surgery has been amazing. I’m extremely happy with my results, everything’s healing well and at 6 weeks post-op, things are already mostly back to normal. Everyone there is so friendly, and its clear they put a lot of effort into ensuring all their patients are given the best care possible. The whole process has been so much easier than I thought it would be thanks to everyone at Bella Vou, the nurses, especially Gabriella who has been so kind and friendly throughout, Nikki who did my lymphatic massage which helped reduce swelling almost immediately, my patient coordinator, Oliver, who has helped make sure all my questions are answered, and Amir who has given me amazing results already. I couldn’t recommend them enough, and I truly couldn’t have chosen anyone better.
Pioneering271843
★★★★★
I am 71 and had a concept facelift with the wonderful Amir. I have to say it’s the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. If you are thinking of having a facelift you will not find a better surgeon or clinic. The whole team are lovely. A big heartfelt Thank you to Amir, Victoria, Renata the MLD therapist, Ann who always greets you at the main Desk with a smile! And last but not least Paddy the kind Bella Vou driver who picks you up and takes you home on the day of your operation.
Angela4116
★★★★★
I am extremely satisfied with the entire service from start to finish from the initial consultation to the surgery and post-care. Everyone at Bella Vou is so lovely and you feel very well looked after throughout. Amir N is a rare talent and tailored his care to my exact needs, he explained everything clearly, keeping advice personalised and realistic. He listened to what I wanted and took my body shape into account to ensure I still looked natural. I am very happy with the end results. I would most definitely use this service again and I would give ten stars if I could! A massive thank you and keep doing what you’re doing.
Sapphire1005x
★★★★★
I went to see Dr Mark Holmes 4 weeks after my Concept facelift, I immediately felt I was in safe hands. He is a very experienced and knowledgeable doctor. I really look forward to my next treatment.
Thanks so much Mark!
Angela4116
★★★★★
My experience at Bella Vou was absolutely 5 stars. The care from every single member of staff was above and beyond. The results of my breast augmentation are more than I hoped for. I absolutely love them. Thank you to all at Bella Vou for a fantastic life-changing surgery and an amazing service and care.
Considerate829490
★★★★★
Dr Amir and his team have been exceptional! Throughout my journey with Bella Vou I have been made to feel welcome and nothing has been too much trouble. Dr Amir’s upbeat positive attitude put me at ease before and after my surgery. My tummy tuck has exceeded all my expectations and the results are beyond what I could have ever imagined. For the first time in over 30 years I am able to feel confident in my own skin, for this I am eternally grateful to Dr Amir Nakhdjevani.
Sati Gill
★★★★★
Amir and his wonderful team are amazing! He is kind, clear and very honest about what he can do and what the results would be like. He and his team were welcoming, attentive, gentle and very kind during both my procedure, and my recovery from breast reduction. I was in no pain, and any little concerns were removed by chatting to one of the team. I even phoned the nurse for advice on New Year’s Day, and she was so helpful! The whole experience is second to none, and I would wholeheartedly recommend Bella Vou to anyone who is looking to have cosmetic surgery. I certainly wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Beanie434
★★★★★
I highly recommend Hagen as a surgeon, from start to finish I was completely looked after and all my questions were answered. Hagen was very professional, friendly and responsive to all my questions in the appointments, emails or phone calls. There was no pressure it was all at my pace and when I was ready. He was fantastic at accommodating appointments to be virtually when possible (as I am not local to the clinic) This surgery has changed my life I feel much more confident in myself. So a massive thank you to Hagen and the team at Bella Vou.
CHFOLD
★★★★★
In November 2023 I booked a full abdominoplasty and vaser lipo with Amir. I visited for my initial consult and knew straight away that i had found the right surgeon, Amir was compassionate, knowledgeable and extremely professional. Fast forward to the 18th of January and my surgery day, Amir was understanding of how nerve wracking surgery can be and i felt at ease from the moment I walked into the building. I was in theatre a lot longer than planned due to an umbilical hernia and extra muscle repair, Amir is a perfectionist and made sure all was well and to his high standards before finishing the surgery. I’ve had a minor umbilical complication which is unfortunately one of the risks associated with this procedure. But the aftercare I have received from Amir and his team has been second to none and I could not be happier with my results. I look forward to my umbilical correction in a few months. I really cannot thank Amir enough and would recommend him to anyone looking for a cosmetic surgeon.
RachelG95
★★★★★
Dr Sadr is an incredibly approachable doctor. His attention to detail is excellent and he explained everything very clearly. He listens to any concerns and wants the absolute best result for his patients. The clinic is absolutely beautiful and it felt like a hotel stay rather than a hospital! The nurses and staff were so friendly and helpful. It really does seem like they all enjoy working there and the atmosphere is very positive. The road to recovery is long with a tummy tuck but I have recovered very well and have benefitted from regular check ups and assurance the whole way. I am really happy with my results. I can wear clothes I couldn’t before, and for the first time in 15 years I might just wear a bikini this summer! Would I go back to Bella Vou? Yes definitely. I would recommend to anyone.
anon2269
★★★★★
Amir has been friendly and professional since my first consultation. He has a great way of managing expectations and a wonderful confidence that really kept me calm throughout the process. The clinic has the highest standards of cleanliness, it is a beautiful clinic, It’s always a pleasure to visit! The spa like feel, makes me feel so welcome and relaxed. All staff at Bella Vou are very welcoming, friendly and professional. I am happy with my results so far and so pleased with my recover, I am back to work 2 weeks after and able to do most things as normal. Thank you!
HannahR94
★★★★★
Amir Nakhdjevani and The Bella Vou team – I think that all superlatives have already been used in the reviews I have seen and they are well deserved. It has been 6 months since I decided that as gift to my 60 year old self and after careful research I would undergo a cosmetic procedure with Amir and the BellaVou Clinic- namely an Extended Concept Lower Face and Neck lift… Amir N is an exceptionally gifted and caring surgeon who carefully listened to me.He was transparent, honest & direct in advising me as to what I needed to achieve the outcome I desired… My request was to look refreshed, less tired, without obvious signs of surgery, but still recognisable as me, to my partner and unsuspecting friends.That is exactly what was achieved. Amusingly I have noted professionals in other settings doing a double take when now seeing my year of birth… Every member of the team go above and beyond…Thank you all… I would not hesitate to recommend this organisation and its team of gifted surgeons and support staff for any cosmetic procedure you would wish to undertake, safe in the knowledge that you will receive excellent results with caring and attentive support throughout your journey and beyond.
LittleMissMe
★★★★★
Absolutely phenomenal care from all of the team at Bella Vou. Special thanks to Amir Sadr for my breast augmentation surgery and to Gabriella the RN who looked after me in recovery xx
Anon
★★★★★
I was nervous going into it because I’d never had any experience with surgeries or cosmetic procedures but everyone was so lovely and the experience was very calm and easy. The procedure was so painless and the surgeon and assistants were chatty and made me feel comfortable and let me know what was happening. I was in and out in a few hours. The aftercare was simple and the healing process has been exactly as they had told me. I’m very happy with my result and would definitely recommend.
ellsmata
★★★★★
Had my long awaited procedure on Saturday 23rd March at Bella Vou. The clinic is modern & very luxurious and the team are welcoming & warm. I’d like to give a special thanks to the amazing Consultant Plastic Surgeon Amir Nakhdjevani for his open & honest advice, experience and skills to achieve what I was looking for, to Anaesthesiologist Ravi, who made me laugh ( & I wasn’t sick as promised) to the beautiful nurse Gabriella, who is just so lovely & caring and last but not least the wonderful Bella Vou chauffeur Joe who picked me up at 5:30am and took me home 10 hours later ( 150 miles in all! ) Joe was professional thoughtful and kind. Thank-you also for the unexpected gift bag from The White Company, full of luxury goodies to enjoy ! I couldn’t recommend Bella Vou highly enough & would recommend to all if you are looking for a cosmetic procedure carried out by a friendly experienced team in a beautiful clinic – you won’t find better ! Hope to see you all again next week for my check up x
Mercedes245
★★★★★
I booked in with Mark for an aesthetic assessment. During the consultation, we discussed my concerns and possible treatments. I booked in a few weeks after, for the treatment. I am very happy with my experience. Mark is very knowledgeable and explained each step, which helped me feel at ease. I would be very comfortable recommending Mark to others! Thanks again
Jadereed_8
★★★★★
Amir is an amazing surgeon. He walked me through my breast augmentation step by step, making sure I understood all the risks and what my potential outcome could look like. The main thing that stood out for me is that Amir wouldn’t do anything that wouldn’t suit my body, so was very thorough with managing my expectations as when I said I wanted to go bigger he said it would all depend what he found during surgery as to what would fit best. And I couldn’t be happier! I’m only 3 weeks post op. And my breasts look absolutely wonderful if I say so myself!! I know they won’t fully settle for sometime yet but already I’m totally thrilled. Thank you Amir and all the team at Bella Vou.
Celebrated403326
I still have some swelling and numbness, and the scars are still very red, but I’ve been reassured that this will all improve over the next few months. My tummy feels tighter though and clothes fit and feel so much better without all the loose skin there. It has made me feel a lot more confident in my clothes, and I generally feel a lot better about myself.
If you’re considering having a Tummy Tuck then I definitely recommend Bella Vou and Amir Sadr - he was absolutely fantastic and the whole team were so supportive.