Meet Our Team

Dr. Afshin Khalessi

Dr Afshin Khalessi is a dental surgeon with over 30 years of experience. He graduated from Karolinska University in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1994, and pursued postgraduate studies in dental implantology, restorative dentistry and dental materials at the Eastman Hospital in London. Dr. Khalessi is a member of both the Association of Dental Implantologists (ADI) and European Association of Osseointegration (EAO). He is also the area mentor for ADI mentorship scheme, sharing his expertise with dentists wishing to enter this field.

Married to Bita who is also a business partner at Umi, they are well-established in Petersfield community having lived and worked there for 27 years. In addition to his professional life, Afshin enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing interests such as tennis and caring for animals on his smallholding. Driven by a spirit of adventure, he has explored destinations like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Kilimanjaro.

Dr. Khalessi is committed to providing quality dental care with compassion, helping patients achieve optimal oral health and confidence in their smiles.

Dr. Bita Farzad

Dr Bita Farzad is a highly respected dental surgeon with over 25 years of experience. Graduating from Karolinska University in 1995, she co-owns and operates Umi Clinic in Petersfield alongside her husband, Afshin. Known for her compassionate care and commitment to excellence, Bita ensures personalised treatment for each patient.

Her journey into facial aesthetics began in 2004. With a healthcare background and a keen understanding of facial anatomy as a dentist, she has attended extensive training courses over the years, honing the art and science of aesthetic treatments. With commitment to continuous learning, she stays at the forefront of the industry, ensuring that her patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. After two decades in the field, she takes pride in blending her expertise and personalised approach to help each patient achieve their unique aesthetic goals.

Outside of work, she enjoys countryside strolls and caring for animals on her small holding.

Dr. Oana Chirila

Dr Oana Chirila completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2012 at the “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, followed by a Master’s in Prosthodontics with a focus on dental occlusion. She went on to complete a PhD in occlusion and temporomandibular joint disorders, graduating with the highest distinction in 2017.

Driven by a long-standing passion for orthodontics, Oana completed her three-year Orthodontic Specialty Training in 2019 and is listed on the GDC Specialist Register. She later earned a postgraduate Master in Aligner Orthodontics from the University of Turin, strengthening her expertise in digital workflows and advanced clear-aligner biomechanics.

Dedicated to staying at the forefront of evidence-based orthodontics, Oana actively attends international congresses and advanced courses. She is a proud member of the European Association of Aligners and the World Federation of Orthodontists.

Outside the clinic, Oana enjoys travelling, specialty coffee and baking artisan bread, all while being a devoted mum.

Mr. Samim Ghorbanian

Mr. Samim Ghorbanian is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at The Royal London Hospital, one of London’s leading university teaching hospitals, specialising in aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. He is fully accredited on the GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery and holds the FRCS (Plast) qualification.

He trained at Barts and The London, where he was awarded multiple prizes for academic performance and research. He completed his plastic surgery training on the prestigious Pan Thames training programme, at units including Imperial and the Royal London, alongside advanced fellowship training in reconstructive microsurgery and aesthetic surgery at The London Clinic in Marylebone, and further specialist training in South Korea and Japan, enabling him to offer patients a modern and refined approach to aesthetic surgery.

His aesthetic practice encompasses facial, breast, body and intimate surgery, with a focus on achieving natural, balanced results tailored to each individual. He consults and operates from Harley Street, as well as Umi Clinic, offering consultations for both aesthetic and reconstructive concerns and performing a range of procedures under local anaesthetic, including pinnaplasty, buccal fat removal, lower blepharoplasty, lip lift surgery, labiaplasty and the removal of moles, cysts, lipomas and other skin lesions. He also consults with patients on procedures performed under general anaesthetic, including facial rejuvenation, breast surgery, and body contouring.

Alongside his aesthetic work, Mr. Ghorbanian leads a specialist skin cancer multidisciplinary team at Barts Health, covering North East London, and has extensive experience in skin cancer surgery, complex reconstruction, trauma, microsurgery, and lower limb reconstruction. He is known for his thoughtful, honest, and patient-centred approach, combining reconstructive expertise with a refined aesthetic eye.

Dr. Sarah Jenkins

Dr Sarah Jenkins is a Cardiff University Medical School graduate with over 15 years of experience in medicine and surgery, including advanced training in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, General Surgery, and ENT. After developing a passion for Medical Aesthetics and Women’s Health, she transitioned to Aesthetic Gynaecology combining her surgical expertise with innovative, non-surgical treatments.
As a dedicated advocate for women’s health, Dr Jenkins specialises in addressing hormonal imbalances, pelvic health, and sexual wellness with cutting-edge, internationally recognised treatments. As a senior member of ESAG and a BCAM associate, she practises exclusively in CQC-regulated facilities, ensuring the highest standards of patient care.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr Jenkins is an international trainer for InMode, sharing her expertise with medical professionals worldwide. Renowned for her compassionate approach and “Safe Hands,” she empowers women to regain confidence and control over their health.

Dr. Priya Udani

Dr. Priya Udani is a highly experienced oculoplastic surgeon and dry eye specialist with a deep understanding of the delicate eye area. After completing her medical degree in 2010, she went on to specialise in ophthalmic surgery, gaining advanced training in oculoplastics and becoming a Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.

With a strong clinical focus on periorbital rejuvenation, dry eye syndromes, and minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Udani offers both medical and aesthetic treatments that are precise, effective, and tailored to each individual. Her approach is rooted in regenerative medicine and aims to restore both the function and appearance of the periocular region.

Widely respected for her published research and leadership in ophthalmology, Dr. Udani is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of eye specialists. She brings a thoughtful, integrated approach to every consultation—combining her surgical expertise with a refined aesthetic eye.

Sonia Thomas

Sonia graduated as a dental hygienist from the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh in 2006, earning the prestigious Tutor’s Prize. After serving for 15 years in the Royal Navy, where she traveled extensively on board various ships, she transitioned to civilian practice.

Originally from Plymouth, Sonia began her dental career at 16 as a dental nurse. She is also a qualified dental radiographer, holds a certificate in Oral Health Promotion, and a diploma in Health and Nutrition. Sonia is passionate about preventing dental disease and has become a highly sought-after hygienist.

In her free time, she enjoys caring for her two daughters and going on long walks with her two dogs.

Katie Jones

Katie has been a qualified dental nurse for 26 years now and really enjoys her career. It’s so important for Katie to be able help patients feel happy and relaxed whenever they visit the Umi Clinic. Building excellent client relationships is key to her role as your dental nurse.

Outside of work Katie is a busy wife and mum to four children, five dogs and two cats! When time allows she loves gardening, walking and reading.

Izzie Andrews

Izzie is a GDC registered dental nurse with more than 20 years’ experience in specialist dentistry. Over the past four years, she has expanded her expertise into skin health and aesthetics, offering treatments such as microneedling, chemical peels, and laser therapy. Always committed to advancing her skills, Izzie has recently added cryotherapy to her portfolio and is currently working toward her Level 7 qualification in aesthetics.

Her warm and approachable nature ensures that every client feels at ease, while her extensive clinical background guarantees the highest level of care and professionalism.

Away from the clinic, Izzie is a proud mum of two and a devoted dog owner. She enjoys family time, travelling, and making the most of life’s little adventures.

Laura Musgrove

Laura joins us with 28 years of experience in dentistry and private healthcare. She has held senior roles including Head Nurse, Clinical Manager, Practice Manager, and Area Manager across both single and multi-site practices.

Laura is passionate about delivering an outstanding patient experience, with a focus on supporting patients and ensuring care always comes first. She is known for her empathetic approach, high standards, and commitment to supporting both patients and clinical teams in a calm, professional environment.

Lesley Francis

With over 20 years of experience as a dental nurse and receptionist, Lesley has come to truly value the relationships she builds with both patients and colleagues. She takes pride in creating a warm, welcoming environment and enjoys helping patients feel comfortable and cared for during their visits.

Outside of work, Lesley enjoys travelling, is an active member of her local church, loves spending time with her ever-growing family, and has a passion for baking. Whether in the home or office, she brings the same attention to detail, warmth, and dedication to everything she does.

Kelly Mepham

With over 10 years of experience in customer service and administration, including a strong background in the dental and aesthetics industry, Kelly is committed to ensuring every patient enjoys a smooth and welcoming experience. She thrives on meeting new people and loves being part of a friendly, supportive team.

Having grown up in the local area, Kelly enjoys spending time with her 3 adult children, travelling with her partner, baking, eating out and running.