Hyun Bae, MD
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278 written reviews
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After numerous epidurals and PT I came to the realization that my only remaining option to resolve my back pain was to consult a spine surgeon. After extensive research and review, Dr. Hyun Bae jumped to the top of my list. What a great find! Dr. Bae was warm, friendly, down to earth and exuded a tremendous amount of confidence. After reviewing my MRI he indicated that he could help me, but it would involve surgery. No problem, as that was what I expected. He explained what he would do while pointing that out on my MRI. He used the words, 'easy peasy" to describe what needed to be done. Easy for him to say, but in reality it was a minimally invasive procedure. I felt totally comfortable with him. I might add that every person whom I can in contact with at Cedars-Sinai or the Spine Institute was extremely friendly, helpful and professional. I cannot recommend Dr. Bae highly enough. Thank you, Dr. Bae.
Hyun Bae, MD
This is a follow up review regarding my surgery on C3-C4, artificial disc placed August, 2018. I am so grateful for Dr Bae and team for the excellent results. As a busy Dentist, I was back to work in two weeks with complete mobility and zero pain. Dr Bae is dedicated to providing the utmost in spinal surgery.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Hyun Bae, MD is simply THE BEST at his craft and I saw a number of spine surgeons before I came to him as a last resort and I am so glad that I took that one more step to see him. All the other surgeons were recommending drastic procedures involving fusion of the lower back and I knew by my own instincts that it wasn't for me. My daughter found Dr. Bae when I had just about given up and was about to cave in to the other surgeons and I think she saved me from a life of pain because after surgery from Dr. Bae, I feel fantastic. I absolutely recommend that you see Dr. Bae and his outstanding staff at The Spine Institute before you have your back operated on by other physicians. This type of surgery should never be taken lightly and its important you see the best doctor out there to do it. Always get multiple opinions before deciding on a course of action for your own condition. It's funny but my daughter was in Chicago on business and she found out that Dr. Bae is well known even there and is super highly regarded for his work to help people with their spinal problems. Glenn L
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr Bae is not only an exceptional surgeon, he is such a warm and compassionate doctor. I was referred to him and i am happy to say that i am now totally pain free, walking well, etc. My surgery was 2 weeks ago!! His staff is great, especially his PA Avital..She is absolutely wonderful.. I would highly recommend Dr Bae!
Hyun Bae, MD
I fell off of my Ladder at my mountain home. At the time I didn’t realize I had broken my spine…Not a lot of pain at first. I consulted with some doctors at the time, but they all said that after surgery I could experience some pain so I decided to wait and see how I would heal. As time went by my legs started bothering me. My Doctor friend referred me to the Surgeon Dr Bae. My doctor said Dr. Bae was the “best”. After consulting and research I was confident to have Dr. Bae do the surgery April 2022. The surgery went very well and there was little pain …Excellent work. I am very pleased with my total experience, including Cedars Sinai Hospital, UCLA Hospital . I agree with My Doctor friend…Dr. Bae is the best!
Hyun Bae, MD
I neglected to leave a review for Dr. Bae and I really feel bad. I spent over 3 years going to various doctors and chiropractors to fix a problem caused by my sciatic nerve. At a point, I was not able to put my left down and walk. I heard of him from a friend of mine and when we met, I was shocked of how of a detailed conversation we had - Dr. Bae went from describing the functionality of the spine and the sciatic nerve. Then he presented me with a couple of options. I agreed to move forward with a non-invasive surgery and the front desk scheduled me for surgery the following week. 6 hours after the surgery, I was able to walk in our back yard. It was miracle! AS I am writing this, I arranged to see him again, for a problem, since I don't trust any other doctors. The staff is great and the person I interfaced often was August. She is great as well! I just asked to arrange for me an MRI and tonight, after hours she replied that it has been taken care of. The anesthesiology doctor whose name I can't recall, called me at home before the and after the surgery. The best doctors and staff I ever dealt with. Thank you all so much with apologies for my late review.
Hyun Bae, MD
I met Dr Bae in 2011, when he performed a hybrid fusion, including and artificial disc in my cervical. The surgery and whole experience was exceptional. Since then, Dr Bae has performed 3 of 5 spinal surgeries, from my thoracic to the lumbar. At anytime I had a problem, Dr Bae would review images and make sure I received the best of care. Since 2011, Dr Bae is not only my surgeon, he has become a friend. I can't express enough, the gratitude I have for Dr Bae, for what he has done for me and my family. He is, without a doubt, the finest and most caring and professional back surgeon in the country. Hands down - THE BEST!
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae is a brilliant, trusting, confident doctor and a great surgeon. After herniating a disc around Christmas time, I had surgery on 2/1/22. I am fully healed with zero pain. I am grateful for his PA, Olivia, for her amazing post-op patient care and wound care. I give them an A+!
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae saved my life. I was in debilitating pain for four months. I saw five other specialists. Three physiatrists (spine and pain management docs) and two neurosurgeons. One physiatrist even did an epidural on the WRONG disc because he made the incorrect diagnosis. It left me unable to walk more than 4-5 steps without excruciating pain for three weeks. I was on an inhumane amount of steroids, nerve pain medication and opioids for four months. I was told I didn't need surgery. Until I finally found Dr. Bae. He took one look at my MRI and IMMEDIATELY knew what my problem was. I had a lateral disc herniation, and a disc fragment was trapped under a nerve branch. This is why I was in constant pain. This could not heal without surgery and I was at risk for nerve damage. I already had muscle weakness. Dr. Bae scheduled me for surgery 2 weeks later. I am 7 weeks post surgery now, and have been completely off pain meds (even Tylenol) for a month. I started physical therapy last week and walked 3 miles. I am incredibly grateful to have found Dr. Bae and his exceptional team. I knew something wasn't right with the other doctor(s). Especially after my pain increased after the epidural. I am so happy I trusted my instinct and kept looking for an answer. The level of intelligence and knowledge that Dr. Bae holds is MILES above anyone else in this city. I'm just sad I didn't find him sooner and lived with the pain for so long. Two weeks after surgery, I got up to get something in a bathroom drawer. I opened the drawer and realized it was the first time in over four months that I wasn't in pain. I cried. Tears of relief and joy. Thank you, Dr. Bae.
Hyun Bae, MD
Incredible results from an incredible spine surgeon! Dr. Hyun Bae possesses a completely different level of understanding and surgical skill-set that elevates him well above his peers in his field of expertise. Just look at his resume, it's clear why he's considered the best spine surgeon in the U.S. by those who've had the pleasure of being repaired by him. It wasn't by chance that I went to Dr. Bae, I researched spine surgeons in the U.S. extensively and interviewed several before concluding Dr. Bae was clearly the most talented surgeon I could select. And he didn't disappoint me! The entire staff at The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration is very professional and highly efficient. This included scheduling my appointments, working with my insurance company, coordinating my surgeries and all follow-up appointments, including phone calls checking on my recovery progress. Tackling my complicated issue required two separate cervical spine surgeries. The first consisted of a posterior laminotomy, medial facetectomy and foraminotomy at level C7/T1, followed 3-weeks later with a complete 2-level anterior disc replacement at levels C5/C6 & C6/C7. State of the art titanium/polymer artificial discs were securely implanted, providing me with a full range of motion and pain-free use of my neck. Both surgeries were performed at the Advanced Surgical Center of Beverly Hills on an outpatient basis, which would have been unimaginable just 5-years ago. Amazingly, my disc replacement surgery began at 7am and I was in my vehicle being driven home at 1pm the same day, wearing only a soft neck brace for the ride home, which I never needed to wear again. My recovery and pain management has been way better than anticipated. In fact, the most difficult part of my entire recovery has been forcing myself to take it easy to give myself time to heal, simply because I feel so good. It's only been 7-weeks since my second surgery and I honestly feel like I can physically do anything without pain or limitations. I'm patiently waiting for Dr. Bae's clearance before returning to my regular workouts, active lifestyle, and pursuit of competitive golf. My recommendation to anyone in the U.S. searching for the finest spine surgeon available to diagnose and perform spine surgery on them is to include Dr. Hyun Bae on your list to interview. Resist the urge of selecting your spine surgeon simply based on geographical conveniences. Travel if necessary, your spine is too important.
Hyun Bae, MD
Brief Update on C5-6 Disc Replacement surgery from September 2015 6 years later and still 100% perfect! All thanks to Dr. Bae!!
Hyun Bae, MD
In early 2017 I slipped on some ice and suffered a stable fracture of the L1 vert. Once the trauma of the fall settled and I thought I could return to normal, I soon discovered I'd never see normal again. The fall changed EVERYTHING, as most traumatic injuries do. I was also suffering from a bad knee I believe was exacerbated by the fall. About a year and a half after the fall, I went to see Dr. Bae on the recommendation of my Dr. He took a look at my MRI and noted I had a bone spur hitting the nerve someplace below the L1 where the break was, something others had missed (bulging discs, not much to do about it). He assured me this was easy to fix and I'd be good as new. BACK SURGERY!!! AHHHHH!!!! I was terrified. He noted that while I had some disc degeneration, he felt my spine overall looked no worse than someone else's my age, or his even, which made me feel good--he's young. Anyway, in November 2018 I had surgery to fix the bone spur. I've had several surgeries in my life and I woke up sick and out of it every time. This time I woke up like I just had the best nap of my life. I was up and going to the bathroom shortly after I woke up and I was home a few hours later. The office follow-up was great, and I thank Lisa Cano for her kindness and thoroughness during a small rough patch about three weeks post surgery. I'd been feeling a little blah and I could tell I was retaining water throughout my body. I just felt...swollen. I got a massage, and while the masseuse was very careful around the incision, she moved things around, as massage will do. A few hours passed and as I got up from the couch to go to bed, my back was wet. Long story short, the incision opened up and was leaking fluid. I immediately called the office (around 9pm, so it was the exchange I got), and Lisa called back immediately, asked me to take a picture, then told me how to cover it, etc. and had me come in the following morning. Dr. Bae was extremely concerned, said he'd never seen this so far out post surgery. He was NOT dismissive or cavalier, which I appreciated. His concern actually made me calmer about it (we can address the psychology of that another time) He swabbed for infection, then dressed it and sent me home with dressings and orders to take pictures after every dressing change. Within a day or two he called and said he wanted to go back in and surgically put a drain in. I finished a round of antibiotics he normally gives post surgery, and he put me on a second round. I was very against going under again, and within a few days the incision began tunneling. It was clear I had an infection but it wasn't bad enough to make me ill-no fever, no pain to speak of, just a little uncomfortable and a lot unnerving. He finally prescribed a different, stronger antibiotic and within a couple of days the tunneling stopped and the incision closed. These things happen. Drs work diligently to prevent infection, but it happens. The competency and care I experienced with Dr. Bae and his PA Lisa cannot be overstated. I was not worried for a second, and when I objected to going under again for the drain, Dr. Bae was firm that we shouldn't wait too long, but he didn't push. I sent Lisa gross pictures of the wound and the bandages every day, and it was enough to ruin the strongest of stomachs. Her communication was right on, and frequent. Saving the best for last, my back is good as new. The only negative was that with a repaired back my knee situation came to the forefront and proceeded to cause me suffering the back couldn't hold a candle to. I got that taken care of in September of 2019 (see my review of Dr Andrew Yun). I cannot say enough about Dr. Bae and his staff. He is just wonderful and he'll be my go-to if any future issues arise.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr Bae fixed my back pain! Thank you Dr. Bae. I had severe low back pain. Dr Bae installed the Pro Disc in my L4-L5. The surgery was very successful as I’m still living pain free after 19 years. If you’re a candidate for disc replacement I highly recommend Dr Bae and the Spine Institute.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr Bae saved my life. I had three degenerated discs in my neck. That was 16 years ago and I’m now 72 and work full time at my own business. I’m so grateful to him!
Hyun Bae, MD
I had surgery with Dr. Bae several years ago. The pain in my back was excruciating and I woke up and couldn't believe the relief I felt! Dr. Bae is an amazing surgeon. He and his staff were excellent from the beginning until the end.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae is a miracle worker. He’s a brilliant diagnostician and surgeon, ethical, empathetic and a wonderful person. He saved me from having 4 vertebrae fused after 2 other orthopedic surgeons told me it was necessary. Fast forward 2 years and my wife gets a horrible case of vertebral osteomyelitis. After 2 ER bungles, misdiagnoses by another another 2 doctors and 20 wasted days at UCI Medical center and a rehab, Dr. Bae came to the rescue.The 2 months of debilitating pain she endured was gone when she awoke from a 6 hour surgery. She’s now recovering at home. We will both be forever grateful to Dr. Bae.
Hyun Bae, MD
If you need back surgery, you cannot find a better surgeon than Dr. Bae!! My diagnosis was spinal stenosis. My symptoms were pain in my right hip and leg, plus muscle weakness. I am 78 years old and was nervous about back surgery, so I opted for steroid injections in my back, and this reduced the pain for a couple of months, but did nothing to help the weakness. Then, four months ago, I had been sitting on my couch and as I went to stand up, I leaned over to one side and must have twisted my back, when suddenly I was in immense pain and was unable to move my right foot! I went to the emergency room and had an MRI and was told I needed surgery! This is when I called Dr. Bae's office and was told to send my MRI disc and was given an immediate appointment after talking to Dr. Bae's assistant. I saw Dr. Bae on Friday, and watched him review my MRI - his comment was "wow, you need to have surgery, and we can do it on Tuesday!" I was sent nearby for an immediate second MRI and giveen my pre-op instructions for checking in to St. John's that Tuesday. I walked out the next morning with no pain. My leg weakness is steadily getting better with therapy and I was able to return to playing badminton in 2 months! Dr. Bae has literally saved my way of life. I could not walk without a walker when I had my surgery. Now I am walking my Border Collie and playing badminton!
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr, Bae changed my life!!!!! After seeing several outstanding back surgeons across the country, I chose Dr. Bae for my decompression back surgery after he explained in detail all of my options. On my first appointment I was using a walker and in severe pain...for over 6 months. I was nervous to have back surgery but he gave me confidence it would all be successful...and it was! The day after surgery I was walking normally and pain free. Its now been three months and trusting Dr. Bae was the best decision I've ever made. This 70yr old grandma now feels like she's 40 again.
Hyun Bae, MD
It has been 7 months since my neck surgery. Recovery was challenging, as I expected, but I am now pain free and my hands are recovering their strength and mobility. You can barely see my scar, and my whole body is getting stronger day by day. I am in my mid 70s but feel so much better than I have in years! I feel that Dr Bae and his team saved my life and I am looking forward to a happy, healthy and productive future. The pain and changes in my ability to use my hands came on so slowly that I didn't realize how I was feeling until it was emergent. But when I first saw the x-ray of my neck, I realized that I had no choice, I had to do something about it. I had Cervical radiculopathy - an extremely pinched spinal chord from collapsing discs and bone spurs. It was clear I needed surgery to fuse two levels, but it was unclear whether to go from the front or the back. I began by searching the Internet and talking to doctors. When I heard about Dr. Bae and read the testimonies by so many people, as well as what he had to say about spine surgery, I knew I wanted him to perform my neck surgery, and I'm so grateful he said yes to taking care of me. He answered every question that I and my family had about the condition, the treatment, and the recovery. His approach was the exact opposite from my first consultation with another doctor, but his explanation was far more convincing. And I am so so glad I went with his suggestions! His team is wonderful and I was scheduled in for surgery right away. You know you are in good hands when the nurses and anesthesiologist rave about your doctor! Dr Bae was surprised to hear that I was excited for surgery, but I was! I had no fear because I knew I was in good hands. And I knew that I could get my life back! Thank you so much!
Hyun Bae, MD
I suffered from severe back pain for about 20 years due to a high grade spondylolisthesis. I finally went to Dr Bae who recommended lower back fusion. It was a complex surgery and a complete success. I have not had any pain since the operation over three years ago. It is important to know that it lasts! Everything about the process was very supportive and such high quality care. Dr Bae is an excellent surgeon and very kind and patient. I call him the miracle worker. He changed my life! I will always be very grateful to him.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae and his staff are amazing, I recommend Dr. Bae to anyone needing spine surgery. He does amazing work; he is an excellent surgeon. My surgery went smoothly as did my recovery all thanks to his great skill. A year ago, I couldn't walk a block without stopping from the pain I was in and now I can walk a full mile without any pain. Thank you again to Dr. Bae and his wonderful staff.
Hyun Bae, MD
I am grateful for having my life saved. The Doctors who really were responsible for getting me to Dr. McKenna, the surgeon, were Dr. Hyun Bae, my spine surgeon, who noticed my bumpy painful fingers on my right hand. He sent me to Dr. Susko - rheumatologist, who insisted on me having a lung CT scan where cancer was found. He sent me directly to Dr. Markovitz Pulmonary specialist who called Dr. McKenna for me to operate on my lung. Dr. McKenna then saved my life removing my lung cancer and I was released 4 days after the event. I am cancer free and so very grateful for the best doctors anywhere!
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae saved my dear friend's life. Literally. After a very successful back surgery, she recently had a follow-up exam. A lump he observed in a joint in her finger prompted him to ask her a seemingly odd question, "Did you smoke when you were young?" She admitted she had. His suspicion piqued, he sent her to a rheumatologist, who ordered a CT Scan -- which revealed a small irregularity in her lung. Needle biopsy confirmed cancer. Surgery got it all, and further testing confirmed it had been caught at Stage 1. What Dr. Bae did for my friend SAVED HER LIFE, and is nothing short of a miracle.
Hyun Bae, MD
I located Dr Bae's name during a visit with a man in a shop near Las Cruces NM. His wife had been to see Dr Bae and recommended him. This man lives in Whitefish Montana and I do not know his name. Wish I did so I could thank him. We drove to Santa Monica June 3 and met with the staff of The Spine Institute and came away very impressed and are scheduling my surgery for June 18. Dr. Bae was very helpful and fully described the work needed and the planned schedule and even offered suggestions for a place to stay nearby the hospital and his offices. I look forward to this operation. We arrived June 17, checked int Ambrose Hotel and the operation went as planned at St Johns. Was in hospital 2 days due to slight complication during procedure. Stayed in hotel nearby until June 24 when we met with Dr Bae and Dr Cano and were cleared to return home. Drove back to SF Bay Area. Stopped using Oxycodone after leaving Santa Monica and then Tylenol within a week and then only one Tylenol at bedtime. Numbness in lower body is nearly gone but comes and goes as expected. Local home nurse and PT were set up through The Spine Institute and they are headquartered here in Orinda. All visiting assistance has been wonderful. My wife was a wonderful nurse and recovery placed a lot of work on her that I had shared so it must be a team effort when serious operations such as back repair are considered. I had a Foley in use for 3 weeks and a complication occurred in that I went into septic shock and was hospitalized for a few days at John Muir in Walnut Creek. At first it was thought my back incision was infected so focus for 2 days was on that possibility, but it turned out I had an extreme bladder infection from the Foley. I setup a local doctor to perform the 6 weeks review in order to save another trip to LA and that was OK with Drs Cano and Bae. All was well. Walked as much as possible, first on my deck then around a local lake. Now walk a mile easily but slowly and use either my Hurrycane or a walking stick. One issue I had was the inability to release urine. Several doctors said they thought this was not related to my nerve pinch in my back. I felt it was. Turns out we were both right since after use of Flomax and the operation and after 3 months working with a local urologist I am back to normal. It has been 3-1/2 months now and slowly my legs are regaining sensitivity. It seems slow but with PT my balance and strength are improving. I feel the effort to work with The Spine Institute in Santa Monica was well worth the extra effort required.
Hyun Bae, MD