“Our goal continues to be providing the most holistic and supportive personalized experience to every cancer patient throughout the cancer journey.”
— Winnie Henderson, MD, PhD, FACS, CGRA breast surgical specialist at Oregon Surgical Wellness
As a breast cancer surgeon at Oregon Surgical Wellness [part of Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center (WVCI)], I want to share a personal perspective on why I’m excited, and deeply committed, to expanding service to patients in Albany, Corvallis, and the surrounding communities in Linn and Benton Counties.
In the past six months, there has been an increasing need for specialized breast cancer care in the mid-Willamette Valley region of Linn and Benton Counties. After the loss of local surgeons, many patients had to travel hours for treatment, something that just isn’t feasible for everyone. So, in August 2025, I began seeing patients at WVCI’s Albany clinic on Thursdays, once a month. I soon realized patients were coming from Corvallis, Philomath, Lebanon, and other outlying areas too, so we expanded again in January 2026 to welcome patients at WVCI’s Corvallis location monthly. Now patients throughout the Mid-Valley region don’t have to leave their communities to find expert, high-quality care.
I believe providing the best breast cancer care should do more than just remove or treat cancer. It should help people heal both physically and emotionally. That’s why I specialize in oncoplastic and hidden scar breast surgery. These advanced techniques let me focus on removing cancer while preserving natural contours and minimizing visible scarring. It’s about giving patients the best medical outcome while helping them feel like themselves again.
Beyond surgery, I’m certified in cancer genetic risk assessment (CGRA). This means I help patients understand their personal and family cancer risks, walk them through selecting the genetic testing that’s right for them, and support them as they make decisions about their health. Knowledge is power, and I’m here to guide patients every step of the way.
Breast cancer affects every aspect of life, so my care philosophy is holistic. I see each patient as a unique individual, not just a cancer diagnosis. My team and I connect patients with counselors, nutritionists, and support groups, offering guidance through surgery, recovery, and beyond. It’s my goal is to provide personalized care so you feel understood and supported.
I’ve spent 45 years on the West Coast and completed my medical education and surgical training at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU). I’m board certified in surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and one of only three surgeons nationwide credentialed in cancer genetic risk assessment (CGRA). I stay connected with peer networks like the City of Hope Clinical Cancer Genomics Community of Practice. I also engage with national organizations including the Society of Oncolplastic Surgery, American Society of Breast Surgeons, and the National Consortium of Breast Centers. This keeps me on the cutting edge of advances in the field so I can deliver the highest quality care.
Expanding our practice into Albany and Corvallis is more than just a milestone to me. It’s my commitment to reduce gaps in care and serve my broader community. Whether someone is seeking early intervention, a second opinion, or needs precision surgery, that’s what I’m here for. Every patient matters, and I’m passionate about helping people access the best in breast cancer care, no matter where they live.
If you or someone you know in the Albany/Corvallis region needs a breast cancer surgery consultation or a second opinion, please reach out. Oregon Surgical Wellness is ready to help navigate the journey with expertise and compassion. Call us at 541-735-3778 or fax 541-735-3772 for more information.
Thank you for trusting me and my team. Together, we can face breast cancer with hope, strength, and community.