Man Battles Eating Disorder for 15 Years After Failed Chest Surgery

In July 2025, Rob Lindsell, a 37-year-old coffee shop owner from Bournemouth, is still grappling with the aftermath of an unsuccessful surgery he underwent over 15 years ago. Lindsell had the Nuss Procedure in 2010 to treat his pectus excavatum, a condition that causes the breastbone to press inwards, but the operation has left him unable to eat solid food.

Since the surgery, Lindsell has faced a constant battle with acid reflux and difficulty keeping any solid food down. He now survives on a liquid diet, consuming six Huel meal replacements per day and occasionally trying to eat soft or melting foods like soups and purees. Lindsell's condition has also led to a significant weight loss of nearly two stone in the past six months.

Lindsell believes the surgery was not suitable for his case, as he also suffers from scoliosis, a curvature of the spine. This has caused his chest to twist and collapse, leading to a 10-centimeter hernia that is further exacerbating his eating issues. Despite his struggles, Lindsell claims doctors have told him the hernia is "liveable" and have refused to provide the necessary surgery.

Frustrated with the lack of support from the NHS, Lindsell has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for private medical care. He hopes to get a second opinion and undergo surgery to remove the hernia, which he believes will help him regain a "sense of normality" and the ability to eat and live more comfortably.