Joyce Au, MD, FACS, is a breast surgeon at Northwell Health. She offers specialized care for high-risk cases and performs a wide range of breast procedures, including lumpectomy and nipple-sparing mastectomy for breast cancer. "I've always been fascinated with medicine, science and the human body," says Dr. Au, recalling her childhood in Hong Kong and her admiration for her grandfather, who practiced traditional Chinese medicine. Dr. Au completed her general surgery residency at SUNY Downstate. She went on to do a fellowship in advanced training in breast and melanoma surgery at Fox Chase Cancer Center. She joined Northwell Health in 2016 as a breast surgeon at Northwell Health Physician Partners Breast Surgery at Huntington. Working with a multidisciplinary team-including radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, plastic surgeons and genetic counselors-Dr. Au makes sure every patient is comfortable and fully informed. "I know it's a tough time, so it is important to be compassionate and kind," she says. "I make sure they understand every part of their care." Patients certainly agree-Dr. Au is a two-time recipient of Northwell's Patients' Choice Award, a feedback-based recognition.Dr. Au is also an assistant professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and is a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons. She's authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, and is currently contributing to a clinical study on 3D breast models for breast cancer patients. She is also working with Northwell partner Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory on breast cancer research."The best part of my job is seeing people continue living their lives, doing what they love," says Dr. Au. "Patients have sent me their sisters, daughters and moms for care-that is the biggest compliment you could ever get."