Dr. Cynthia Aks is a board-certified General Surgeon, certified Yoga Therapist, and Integrative Healthcare Practitioner with over three decades of experience, specializing in breast surgery and holistic medicine. A pioneer in the field of breast health, Dr. Aks has been at the forefront of combining traditional Western medical practices with integrative, holistic approaches to patient care. Her medical career began in 1990, and since 1997, she has focused exclusively on breast disease, providing comprehensive care with an emphasis on healing the whole person.

Dr. Aks’ journey in medicine is rooted in her osteopathic training, which places great emphasis on the holistic treatment of patients. She has always believed that healing involves more than addressing physical symptoms; it requires a deep understanding of the mental, emotional, and environmental factors that contribute to a patient’s overall health. This perspective has informed her approach to breast surgery, where she not only focused on the removal of tumors but also on helping patients regain balance in their lives.

Throughout her career, Dr. Aks has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to innovation and patient advocacy. She was the first surgeon in Oregon to perform cryoablation for breast cancer, a groundbreaking minimally invasive procedure that treats cancer by freezing the tumor. This achievement is a testament to her leadership in advancing breast care technologies and improving outcomes for patients. In addition to her surgical expertise, Dr. Aks has specialized in ultrasound imaging, stereotactic breast biopsies, ductoscopy, and genetic cancer risk assessment, all of which are integral to her holistic approach to treating breast disease.

Her leadership roles are equally distinguished. Dr. Aks served as the Director of Comprehensive Breast Centers at prestigious institutions such as Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital and St. Mary Mercy Hospital, where she led programs that integrated clinical, radiologic, and genetic services under one roof. As the owner of Downriver Comprehensive Breast Center in Michigan, she provided innovative breast care services to patients for over a decade, establishing herself as a leading figure in the field of breast oncology.

In addition to her medical practice, Dr. Aks is deeply invested in patient education and advocacy. She has held positions on the Regional Leadership Board of the American Cancer Society, contributing to national efforts in cancer prevention and treatment. She has also been a frequent speaker at local, regional, and national medical conferences, sharing her expertise in breast health and integrative medicine.

Dr. Aks is a certified Yoga Therapist with 800 hours of training, and she is a Reiki Master, reflecting her commitment to holistic health. She holds certifications in Cancer Exercise Training, Oncology Nutrition, and Ayurvedic Medicine, and is certified through the City of Hope in cancer risk assessment, counseling, and testing. This extensive training in complementary therapies underscores her belief that a patient’s journey to health involves addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of well-being.

Throughout her career, Dr. Aks has been dedicated to teaching and mentoring the next generation of healthcare providers. She has served as an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at A.T. Still University, where she shared her knowledge and experience with students pursuing careers in osteopathic medicine. Her work in both academic and clinical settings reflects her passion for education and her desire to inspire others to adopt a more comprehensive approach to healthcare.

Now retired from clinical practice as of July 2023, Dr. Aks continues to dedicate herself to improving the lives of others. She currently works as an Integrative Health Coach, specializing in oncology, where she leverages her vast experience to guide individuals through their health challenges with a focus on nutrition, lifestyle, and holistic healing practices. Her personal mission is to inspire, educate, and motivate others to take charge of their health and live balanced, fulfilling lives.

Dr. Aks’ career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to patient-centered care, innovation, and education. Whether as a surgeon, educator, or holistic health advocate, she has consistently demonstrated leadership and a deep compassion for those in her care. Her legacy is one of excellence in breast health and integrative medicine, and she continues to make a difference in people’s lives through her work as a health coach and educator.

In her personal life, Dr. Aks is an avid lover of nature, music, and adventure. She enjoys scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, cooking, and photography, all of which reflect her passion for life and learning. Her personal and professional journeys are guided by her dedication to mindfulness, gratitude, and service to others, principles that have defined her outstanding career and continue to drive her post-retirement endeavors.

Character:

Dr. Cynthia Aks embodies compassion, integrity, and dedication, reflected in her patient-centered approach to healthcare. Her holistic philosophy prioritizes understanding the root causes of illness, promoting healing beyond mere symptom treatment, and maintaining a strong moral compass throughout her medical career.

Knowledge:

With over three decades of experience as a board-certified general surgeon specializing in breast health, Dr. Aks is highly skilled in both traditional and integrative medical practices. She holds advanced certifications in yoga therapy, oncology nutrition, cancer risk assessment, and holistic health, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of patient care.

Strategic:

Dr. Aks has demonstrated strategic leadership by pioneering innovative procedures like cryoablation for breast cancer and establishing comprehensive breast centers that integrate clinical, radiological, and genetic services. Her ability to anticipate healthcare trends and focus on holistic healing has allowed her to create impactful, patient-focused programs.

Communication:

An advocate for patient education, Dr. Aks is a skilled communicator, frequently speaking at national conferences and serving on leadership boards, including the American Cancer Society. Her approach to care involves clear, empathetic communication, ensuring that patients are informed, supported, and involved in their treatment decisions.