A Journey of Trust, Care, and Confidence
When facing a major medical decision, trust matters. For Elaine Gonzalez, that trust became clear almost immediately.
June 18, 2026
After researching her options and meeting with three different surgeons about a mastectomy, she still didn’t feel completely at ease. “They were all competent,” she shared, “but I just didn’t have that warm and fuzzy feeling.” That changed the moment she met Dr. David Straughan, a plastic surgeon with Lakeland Regional Health.
“I told my husband in the car right after — he is the one. I trust him.”
That decision marked the beginning of a multistep journey that included a preventive double mastectomy, reconstructive procedures, and, later, an optional surgery. While the path was complex, Elaine says she never felt uncertain about the care she was receiving.
Her first surgery was the most intensive. It involved a double mastectomy, removal of breast tissue, placement of expanders, and a lift. These were all coordinated with multiple care teams at the Medical Center. Despite the scope of the procedure, Elaine recalls feeling prepared. She was even able to return home that same day.
“Dr. Straughan explained everything in layman’s terms, so I knew exactly what to expect. His bedside manner is amazing.”
Following surgery, she spent the next three months coming into the office regularly for expander fills. This was a gradual process to prepare for implants. Then came the second procedure, where the expanders were removed and replaced with implants.
“I went home the same day, and everything went well,” she says.
Later, Elaine chose to move forward with a third procedure, a tummy tuck performed at the Medical Center. While the recovery was more intensive, her confidence in Dr. Straughan never wavered.
She also notes the personal attention she received throughout the process. “Dr. Straughan called often to check on me after my surgeries,” she said. “I had zero complications through all of it.”
Now that her results have fully settled, Elaine says she feels great. “The results look natural,” she shares. “He did such a wonderful job,” she says. “He proved me right. I thought he would be wonderful, and he was.”
Looking back, her recommendation is simple and heartfelt. “I 100% recommend Dr. Straughan, not just because of his skill, but because he’s a good person. He really cares about his patients. He makes you feel comfortable, takes the time to get to know you, and explains everything. And his work is impeccable. His stitchwork is amazing. He knows what he’s doing.”
She even jokes about the experience now. “I told my husband, it’s too bad I don’t have any more surgeries. I won’t get to see Dr. Straughan anymore!”
For Elaine, what began as a difficult medical decision turned into a journey defined by trust, communication, and exceptional care, and that ended with wonderful results.
To learn more about plastic and reconstructive surgery with Dr. David Straughan, click below.
David M. Straughan, MD
Physician in Plastic Surgery
ABOUT DR. STRAUGHAN
Dr. David Straughan is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who uses his skills to perform both cosmetic and reconstruction surgeries. He is fellowship-trained in craniofacial reconstruction and facial aesthetics.
I chose plastic and reconstructive surgery as it seemed like a perfect avenue to help people with a variety of needs. In my specialty, I have the opportunity to meet the surgery needs of patients from the top of their heads to the bottom of their feet. I find genuine excitement in my work whether it is helping a woman achieve her breast reconstruction goals or helping to improve one's self-confidence with cosmetic surgery.
LRHS Hollis Campus Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
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