The study, published in the Lancet, could spare other women the trauma and worry of an unnecessary operation, as well as the distressing news that they may be at risk from cancer.

BBC: Removing benign cysts 'saves no lives'

"We've always felt that the whole SNH operation and the cull was completely unnecessary, " she said.

BBC: Hedgehog cull comes to an end

Opponents claim that at best, it is an unnecessary ritual, and that at worst, it is an operation that proves detrimental to the physical and psychological health of the patient.

CNN: Health

The surgeon who carried out her operation is being investigated by the police over alleged botched or unnecessary breast cancer operations at West Midlands hospitals.

BBC: Woman's breast removal 'unnecessary'