Business Details
11 Years
experience
Expert Breast Health Services in Grand Rapids
Founded in 2015, The Breast Health and Wellness Center has been empowering women across West Michigan and beyond to prioritize proactive breast health. Our board-certified specialists, including Dr. Colleen App and Mackenzie VanderVelde, PA-C, offer comprehensive care spanning early detection, diagnostics, and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in advanced imaging, oncoplastic surgery, and minimally invasive techniques, we provide a one-stop solution for breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and recovery. Our patient-centered approach eliminates the complexities of large healthcare systems through coordinated care, reducing wait times, and fostering compassionate support.Nationally recognized for our standards, we hold certifications from the American Society of Breast Surgeons and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. By integrating genetic testing, tailored screening programs, and nutritional guidance, we ensure patients receive evidence-based care aligned with their unique risk profiles and health goals.
Services
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Genetic Testing
Oncoplastic Surgery
Minimally Invasive Biopsy
Tailored Screening Programs
Nutrition Counseling
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- Board-certified specialists with 20+ years of experience in breast oncology.
- Nationwide recognition for meeting the highest breast care accreditation standards.
- Pioneering use of intraoperative ultrasound to improve surgical precision.
- Tailored screening programs based on individual risk assessment models.
- Offering cryoablation, a nonsurgical treatment for benign breast tumors.
Associations and certifications
- National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers
- American Society of Breast Surgeons
Services
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Our advanced diagnostic services include clinical breast exams, digital mammography, 3-D tomosynthesis, and high-risk screening MRIs. We integrate genetic testing and family history analysis to create personalized risk assessments. Early detection capabilities improve treatment outcomes through timely intervention.
Oncoplastic Surgery
This technique combines cancer removal with plastic surgery principles to preserve breast appearance. Patients benefit from wider margins, lower recurrence rates, and immediate reshaping. The approach often involves collaboration with plastic surgeons for optimal cosmetic results.
Minimally Invasive Biopsy
Performed under ultrasound guidance in-office, this outpatient procedure requires a 4mm incision and no sutures. It provides accurate preoperative cancer diagnosis, reduces scarring, and minimizes recovery time while maintaining diagnostic precision.
Genetic Testing
We analyze BRCA and 83+ other genes associated with hereditary cancers. Testing identifies patients at increased risk for breast, ovarian, and related cancers. Results guide personalized prevention strategies including prophylactic surgeries and enhanced screening protocols.
Tailored Screening Programs
Risk stratification using Gail, Tyrer-Cuzick, and Claus models determines individual screening needs. Low-risk patients receive standard annual exams, while high-risk individuals benefit from customized MRI and ultrasound protocols for optimal early detection.
People
Colleen App
Medical Director
Board-certified breast surgeon with 20+ years of experience. Pioneered breast ultrasound certification in Michigan. Specializes in oncoplastic surgery and early detection. Serves as Assistant Clinical Professor at Michigan State University.
Mackenzie VanderVelde
Physician Assistant
Specializes in breast cancer care and prevention. Focuses on patient education and risk reduction strategies. Graduated from Western Michigan University with concentrations in women's health and oncology care.
Questions
What breast cancer screening services do you offer?
We provide clinical breast exams, digital mammography, 3-D tomosynthesis, high-risk screening MRIs, and breast ultrasounds. Genetic risk assessment and tailored screening plans are available for patients with family history or elevated risk factors.
Do you treat both cancerous and non-cancerous conditions?
Yes, we treat benign breast diseases including fibroadenomas, cysts, and infections alongside comprehensive breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our services include cryoablation for non-cancerous tumors and management of complex breast health conditions.
What makes your center different from hospital-based programs?
We offer coordinated care without the bureaucracy of large systems. Our one-stop approach combines prevention, diagnostics, and treatment with personalized attention, reducing wait times and providing direct access to specialists throughout your care journey.
Can I schedule a genetic risk assessment?
Yes, we offer comprehensive genetic testing and counseling for patients with family history or diagnosed breast cancer. Our program analyzes BRCA and 83+ other cancer-related genes to determine risk and guide prevention strategies.
What surgical techniques do you specialize in?
We specialize in oncoplastic surgery combining cancer removal with cosmetic reconstruction, minimally invasive biopsies, and sentinel lymph node mapping. Our surgeons pioneered intraoperative ultrasound guidance to improve surgical accuracy and reduce re-operations.
Do you offer second opinions for breast cancer diagnoses?
Yes, we welcome patients seeking second opinions. Our team reviews imaging, pathology reports, and treatment plans to provide alternative perspectives and ensure patients receive the most appropriate care for their specific diagnosis.
Reviews (1)
Kindra M.
Aug 07, 2017
Report
Staff is amazing here, my family and I can't say nothing but amazing words towards Dr. App. She truly cares about her patients and if it wasn't for her having me get gentic tested in her office I would have never found out about a gene that I have, she also noticed two spots on me that had to be removed where I always thought they were freckles. Highly recommend her!
