The mother said the extraordinary advice was given during a consultation at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital after her daughter was diagnosed with pectus carinatum.

The condition, sometimes known as pigeon chest, is a deformity of the breastbone and ribs which causes the chest to protrude outwards.

The teenager was offered surgery or wearing a compression brace for up to a year.

The brace purchased by a Norwich mother who was told to take it to a car garage for adjustments (Image: Trulife)

Her mother said the surgical option described to them would have been a major open operation involving work on the ribs and breastbone, significant scarring, a lengthy recovery and the risks associated with major surgery.

The alternative was a metal-framed brace designed to apply pressure to the breastbone gradually as the teenager grows.

However, the family was told the brace was not available through the NHS and would have to be purchased privately for £240.

The mother claims the consultant also warned that its metal frame might need to be heated and reshaped to fit her daughter’s body comfortably.

She said: “The consultant suggested taking it to a car mechanic or garage, asking them to heat and mould it and offering them £10 or £15 for doing it.

“I was shocked, but at the time I was trying to absorb all the information and understand the choices available while considering what was in the best interests........

© Eastern Daily Press