Dr Ravi Ratnavel

Written by a patient at Spire Thames Valley Hospital

As my husband has been a patient of Dr Ratnavel for many years due to various skin issues resulting from sun damage, all of which have been treated extremely successfully, I was very happy to be referred to him for a tiny, but rather unsightly, facial wart which he advised he could remove very easily. As per protocol, he then examined the rest of me but immediately focused on a large mole on my arm which had a small “freckle” at its centre. I should say here that because my brother had died, aged 37, from malignant melanoma in a mole just five months after he was diagnosed, I was extremely aware of the potential dangers of moles that change in appearance, therefore I had already consulted my GP about it when it first appeared approximately three years before my appointment with Dr Ratnavel. At that time, my GP looked at it, smiled, and said it was harmless – just a freckle – so my mind was completely set at rest. I mentioned all of this to Dr Ratnavel but he continued to inspect the mole, clearly unhappy, and said that bearing in mind my family history, he firmly recommended that he remove the “freckle” and it be sent away for analysis which was duly carried out seven days later. I really did think nothing more about it until ten days later when Dr Ratnavel telephoned me to advise that the histology report had confirmed that the “freckle” was an early melanoma, and he firmly recommended the removal of the entire mole. To say that I was shocked would be an understatement and as the memories of my brother’s suffering for the five months before he died all came flooding back, I was hugely relieved when Dr Ratnavel quickly booked me in for the procedure which was carried out with the minimum of fuss (it was a large mole), discomfort and scarring. Ten days later, Mr Ratnavel again telephoned me but this time with the happy news that the histology report had confirmed it was all clear, therefore any future risk that I might have with it was now completely gone. I cannot describe my relief when I learned this. As I have written, I had initially consulted Dr Ratnavel over something as trivial as a tiny wart on my face but if it hadn’t been for his diligence in spotting the “freckle” in my mole – which my GP had originally declared harmless three years before! - and his caring concern for me due to my family history, there might have been a different outcome altogether. I firmly believe he saved my life. Since that time, thirteen years ago, I have had a few other thankfully very minor skin issues but each time Dr Ratnavel has been knowledgeable, reassuring, diligent, and extremely caring, and I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone who has skin concerns – even a tiny wart! - as they will be in very, very safe hands.

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Written by a patient at The Harley Street Clinic

I contacted Dr Ratnavel as I was concerned about a suspicious growth on my abdomen. Within 24 hours I received a call and was booked in for a video consultation a few days later. On the video call Dr Ratnavel took quality time to listen to my concerns, conduct a thorough video examination and then discuss options and agree next steps. Within seven days I was seen in Clinic and the growth removed via minor, painless op. I was expecting lab results in 10-14 days, but was contacted with results in 2-3 days. Overall I was hugely impressed with Dr Ratnavel's knowledge, calm manner and speed in which he resolved the issue and my concerns. He responded quickly to my questions via email and called me directly to share results. I would highly recommend Dr Ratnavel to anyone considering treatment and I will certainly recommend his services to my own patients!

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Written by a patient at Spire Thames Valley Hospital

A few months ago, when I had severe acne problems, my mother suggested that I see Dr Ratnavel, recalling that he had treated my eczema almost 20 years ago which my local GP at the time could not cure. I am extremely glad that I saw Dr Ratnavel and can understand why, after almost 20 years, my mother still remembers treatment under Dr Ratnavel. Dr Ratnavel was very patient when I explained my medical history and would always set realistic expectations as to what result I would be able to achieve at the end of my treatment. He is always within reach - I contacted him on Boxing Day and he replied within 20 minutes! I cannot think of a better doctor to go to. Dr Ratnavel’s experience is truly invaluable. I have previously sought the medical advice of my GP, who told me that my skin issues were cosmetic and that there was nothing they could do. When visiting a skin clinic, I was told to undergo cosmetic procedures which did not tackle my skin issues in any way. I will be forever grateful to Dr Ratnavel and his years of expertise, as it is particularly difficult to find someone who has experience with skin issues in people from all races. I highly recommend Dr Ratnavel. He has provided the best medical treatment I have ever experienced. Just a few months since my first appointment and my skin has never been better! I never thought that I would be someone to have such nice skin.

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Written by a patient at The Harley Street Clinic

Came into see Dr. Ratnavel today and it was the best experience that I've had in a long time. I was concerned about hair loss and he gave me a very honest answer on how things would be going forward, which was communicated excellently keeping me at ease. He also clarified some misconceptions I had and made sure I walked away satisfied. I would highly recommend Dr. Ratnavel for issues concerning hair disorders or other dermatological concerns. I wouldn't say I walked away in the "all clear" regarding my condition, but a cautious yet hopeful mindset. Due to Dr. Ratnavel's comprehensive and nuanced knowledge coupled with his great communicative skills, I now have more confidence and can enjoy my life as opposed to worrying about my hair. Highly recommended and I will keep Dr. Ratnavel as my dermatologist going forward for hair and dermatology.

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Written by a patient at Spire Thames Valley Hospital

I began seeing Ravi a few years ago and since then I've recommended him to members of my family, friends and work colleagues, such is my confidence in him. He gets straight to the point in an empathetic manner and deals with matters professionally and efficiently and sometimes even incorporates a little humour to help you feel at ease. He is my "go to" dermatologist.

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