(GRAPHIC) Tourist loses a leg after being ripped apart by a shark while swimming off of a beach in Brazil

A beach-goer has lost his leg after being attacked by a shark while swimming off the coast of Brazil.



Pablo de Melo suffered horrific injuries at Piedade Beach in Recife on Sunday and needed to have one of his legs amputated as doctors battled to save his life.



The shark ripped into Pablo's arms and legs as he swam through surf - in an area known for frequent shark attacks.



It's believed the 34-year-old survived the attack because two men, who were in the water nearby, risked their own lives by bravely chasing off the beast and hauling the severely injured man out of the water.



A team of lifeguards and fire officers carried out first aid before airlifting the victim to Restoration Hospital where he was rushed by a trauma team into surgery.



Doctors reported the tourist, who was vacationing with his family in the holiday resort, underwent a four-hour life-saving operation.