It’s My Turn to Choose
Finding out you have breast cancer would be enough to make even the strongest woman crumple like an autumn leaf. But for DeAnne, she had the ultimate test of courage when she had to endure this diagnosis twice in two years.
Once her treatments were complete, she asked a friend for help with a referral to a board certified plastic surgeon to perform her reconstruction. DeAnne’s friend led her to respected Washington, DC area plastic surgeon and Center for Plastic Surgery Medical Director, Albert F. Fleury. DeAnne remembers back to that important decision, “Both Dr. Fleury’s reputation and that of his father, led me to have him as my surgeon for all of my associated reconstructive procedures.”
Fast forward to a few years later: a cancer-free DeAnne decided to give herself a lift, both figuratively and literally. She recalls, “I had had several required (non-elective) surgeries, and now wanted to do something by my choosing. It was time to give myself a boost.”
Again, DeAnne visited Dr. Fleury, but this time, the lift she wanted was for her face and eyes. ”Although I had been contemplating the facelift for a year or two, I didn’t hesitate one minute as to who should perform the surgery. I only considered Dr. Fleury.”
For DeAnne, there were several other factors that were on her “critical list” besides the surgeon. Of utmost importance was the way she felt about the rest of her care team. “A physicians’ office staff is a very important part of treatment. Those who work for CPS are outstanding, compassionate and caring individuals. They treated me as an individual. All of my experiences with the office staff have been exceptional.”
With her myriad of experiences with physicians and caregivers during her cancer treatments, DeAnne knew what differentiated a good experience from a bad one. And for her, it came down to one critical component: ”Communication is key. It is important that a patient is part of the process and knowledge of the procedure, what to expect is important. I felt I learned a great deal and Dr. Fleury and his staff were open to answering all my questions.”
Among the most important factors for DeAnne was the AAASF accreditation of the surgery facility, that her anesthesia was being administered by a board certified anesthesiologist, and that the OR personnel were as highly skilled as possible. Safety was paramount. But in the end, DeAnne relied on Dr. Fleury’s reputation for excellence, and how he made her feel. “I was anxious as anyone is before surgery. Dr. Fleury and I have a history in the operating room. He puts you at ease and I trust him, these are areas of importance.”
When asked what advice she would give to other patients thinking about facial rejuvenation, DeAnne replied, “It took me awhile to decide to do this, but I am so happy I did. After some very trying years physically, it was nice to see myself looking better, less tired and drawn. It was a great boost having this done. The team at CPS is exceptional, caring, passionate, and knowledgeable. I could not have asked for a better physician or staff.”
