They used 3D printing technology to show exactly how the twin boys were joined at the pelvis, giving doctors a better idea of how they could separate the pair prior to surgery

Conjoined twins Harley and James photographed with their parents Yu Dang and Zhou Li and their grandmother, prior to surgery to separate them

But he said this was the most complicated case he’d dealt with and said further surgery would be needed.

‘The surgery is important for two people’s lives and their quality of life, urination, defecation and the bodily functions they will use in the future,’ he said.

I never considered giving them up. I gave 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 to these 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren, they’re my flesh and I wouldn’t give them to anyone elseZhou Li, 20

‘Their makeup is extremely complicated, they only have one anus, four urethra and four bladders – their structure is incredibly complicated.

‘Regarding protecting their lives, I’m positive. But to ensure two lives are intact, in terms of quality of life, normal functions like giving 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 – I think that’s more difficult.

‘The surgical procedures will be long, perhaps the 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren will have to go two or three surgeries.’

The operation, on February 24, was made possible by the generosity of strangers around the world who donated more than £40,000 to cover its costs..

The couple, from one of the poorest areas of China, had been unable to afford scans before the 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 of the twins and the delivery came as a shock to the family and doctors.

In parts of China there is a high abandonment rate of 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren with 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 defects, but the couple refused to give up on their babies.

The new parents borrowed money to cover the twins’ initial medical expenses but were discharged after being unable to pay the operation fee.

Doctors examine the conjoined twins prior to the major surgery in Shanghai carried out last month

Medics in China worked tirelessly to separate five-month-old twins Yu Ce Yuan and Yu Ce Xiang to the relief of their 20-year-old parents. Charity Love Without Boundaries helped to raise the money for surgery

The twins’ father spoke of his fears that he would have to choose between his babies’ lives.

He said: ‘At the beginning we thought the surgical fee was too expensive, then we were scared we’d have to choose between one and the other.

‘Our hopes are that after the successful surgery their living conditions will be improved.

‘We are thankful towards each kind-hearted person’s help. We are very grateful for their support,’ said Yu Dang.

The family were saved by Love Without Boundaries, a charity for orphaned and impoverished 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren, and after only a month of fundraising sufficient money had been raised.

Last week the boys were taken off their ventilators and doctors are thrilled with their progress.

Their mother said she hoped the twins would grow up to become doctors themselves.

Amy Eldridge, chief executive officer for the charity said the worldwide support for this cause had been ‘truly humbling’.

‘As soon as we heard their story we pledged to help, but it only became possible because complete strangers gave from their hearts.

‘That’s love in action at its finest,’ she said.

One of the twins photographed after their operation at the Children’s Hospital of Fudan University. Doctors said both were doing well but would need further operations in the future

The twins have now been taken off the ventilators they were put on immediately after surgery. Doctors are pleased with their progress to date but warned they will need further operations in future