I am so sorry to hear this @hetty-rowan, I don't really know what to say or advise, if he was younger I would straight away, say to do the operation, but I am hesitant because of his age.
I look those photos of him, he looks so happy, sorry I can not help further, let us know how it all goes xxx
Thanks for your support ... Yes for me his age is a big doubt too. If he was about 8 years, I would also straight away go for the operation ... but now ... I just don't know what's best.