Appointments and wait times reviews

I am writing exactly one year after my procedure to give Dr. Bae and his office the highest possible recommendation. I did not write earlier because the entire procedure of having two levels of cervical spinal discs replaced went so well and so easily that I forced myself to wait to make sure things remained great. And they have. I was diagnosed in May 2016 with degenerative disc disease with C4/5 and C5/6 bulging directly on my spinal cord, causing numbness and a lack of agility in my hands. Local doctors in the Bay Area said my only choice was a two-level fusion, two nights in the hospital and formidable recovery. I did a lot of reading online and decided that everything about artificial disc replacement seemed better, from procedure to recovery. The only problem was that insurance would not cover it. We bit the bullet and decided to self-fund the surgery. I have never regretted the cost because the experience was AMAZINGLY UNBELIEVABLY AWESOME. Same-day surgery; I flew in a few days before for pre-op and stayed 11 days afterwards before flying back. The surgi-center was awesome, the surgery went quickly and well, and my recovery was negligible. When Lisa Cano, Dr. Bae's FABULOUS PA, told me that I would not experience much pain I was skeptical, but she was right. I only took one pain pill throughout, the first night. I was out to dinner and going to museums later in the week. I cannot recommend Dr. Bae and Lisa and the staff at the surgi-center highly enough. If you face anything like I faced, with cervical spinal disc issues, you could not do better than to see Dr. Bae.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Millstein is a class act!! He really takes the time to get to know his patients, and for me that was huge. I tore my ACL/MCL and Dr. millstein fixed em up real good. I'm 2 months out from surgery and just ran at PT for the first time. Everything is looking awesome and I honestly can't wait to tear another ACL just so I can go back and say hi! Hats off to Dr. Eric "Always wins at Operation" Millstein!!

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

Dr. Bae an amazing doctor! Last December I injured my spine while in North Carolina. The doctors there did what I call temporary fix on my third lumbar which didn't work! Searching for more answers to my problem, Dr. Bae was referred to me as being one of the best in L.A. My first appointment with Dr. Bae was professional in every detail. There was a chance that my spine would heal and he wanted to give it two months. Well, after 4 weeks, I knew something needed to be done. Dr. Bae expedited my appointment and set me up for surgery the following week. He explained clearly everything that would transpire during the one and one-half hour operation. Leaving his office I had complete confidence that I had selected the right doctor. The day of surgery, staff and the doctor were so positive that I was very comfortable leaving my back destiny in his hands. I am happy to say that after surgery the pains have disappeared and I can walk again. I would like to thank Dr. Bae, his excellent assistant Lisa and the entire surgery staff for making my first every hospital stay an easy one. I would also like to thank Amy and Rob for recommending this fantastic surgeon.

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Hyun Bae, MD

This was my first appointment with Dr. Estess. She is an incredibly down-to-earth, friendly, compassionate, and competent orthopedic doctor. All of my concerns were thoughtfully received and collaboratively considered when determining my treatment plan. My X-ray results were thoroughly explained in detail and several options for treatment were presented. I am so happy to have found Dr.Estess and have total trust in her care for my orthopedic health needs!

Allyson Estess, MD

I have plenty of experience with orthopedic surgeons and I have to say Dr. Millstein is the best. I've been in for several issues and appreciated his careful diagnosis and explanation of the problem, and especially the way he talks patients through options for treatment including non-surgical options. Solid. And I'll add that his offices have been great about scheduling appointments and getting me in soon after I call. Just a top notch operation all around.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

Dr. Bae installed a Prodisc artificial cervical disc at my C5-6 two months ago. I had talked to 5 other ortho surgeons prior to this about my neck and arm pain. I am 65 years old, had spondylosis and radiculopathy from degenerated C5-6. Three surgeons recommended fusion (wouldn't do artificial disc) and the other two offered this and artificial disc. I chose Dr. Bae because of his publications in the field, his excellent reviews, and his calm and forthright demeanor during the diagnosis/intake office appointment. I dismissed the negative yelp reviews about bedside manner, concluding these were people who had trouble trusting people, requiring people to spend an exorbitant/unnecessary amount of time with them in order to gain their trust. I didn't want that. I wanted a doctor who is plain and direct, and professional. The surgery went well, no complications. I could have gone home the same day, but chose to stay overnight at Cedars Sinai. I had slight/moderate pain for a few days, and then just some limited movement and discomfort for another few days. I only took one pain pill during this period at home. In 12 days I was back swimming and playing tennis, and within a month I had no pain left at all, and wonderful extra neck movement from the artificial disc. Dr. Bae basically gave me a new life, and I am grateful to him for it. I also loved the compassion Dr. Bae showed prior to my surgery in the surgery prep room at Cedars. He came in and just held my hand for a bit, and exuded an ease, confidence and comfort level you won't see many surgeons exhibit. I know; I've had many surgeries in my life. Dr. Bae's Surgery Fellow, who assisted the procedure, and visited me afterwards, praised Dr. Bae's skills in a reverential way, which is what you would expect with a surgeon of Dr. Bae's caliber.

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Hyun Bae, MD

WOW! I am very impressed with this office. I came in after falling off my bike during a triathlon (on a Sunday) and really hurt my shoulder. We called first thing Monday morning about an appointment that day and we were able to be seen within 2 hours of calling. I was x-rayed and left with the prognosis of a separated shoulder. I then lost my Rx and called the front desk to get another one. They faxed the papers over to me immediately and even emailed them as well to ensure that I received it. Great front desk staff as well as nursing staff. Would recommend to anyone looking a orthopedist!

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

I have never done a review on any doctor but I feel it is important to let people know about this very talented doctor. I broke my back in a boating accident while in Italy almost 2 years ago. Although I did get it looked at in Italy and again in Monte Carlo, needless to say I wanted to see a US doctor and several of my friends have had procedures done by Dr. Khurana with excellent results. So I flew home and he was a able to evaluate my issues and schedule me for a double fusion the week I got back to the USA. It went very well. I had to go in this week in order for Dr Khurana to remove the screws (they had loosened and were painful and annoying) and he also did a decompression procedure on my lower back as I had severe nerve pain. I am doing fine now but had a few painful days after the surgery. I want to say that his entire staff, especially his Nurse Practitioner, has been incredible and they all have done everything in their power to make me feel comfortable. She actually called me last evening (Friday night) to make sure I felt good. I am now very hopeful that I can heal 100% and have the active life that I have been missing of late. Thank you Dr. Khurana and staff!

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Sanjay Khurana, MD

Dr Bae changed my life by giving me back my vitality and eliminating my pain. I am a 47 year old athletic female that suffered 3 herniated discs at the same level (L 4-5). I had two microdisctectomies prior to arriving at THE SPINE INSTITUTE that did not hold, I felt better for a while and then suddenly the disc would re-herniate. Dr Bae worked with me (and my insurance company) to get me the disc replacement that would eventually fix me back up. He is so wonderful, I never doubted his decision or his skill. I had many questions that he answered patiently and thoroughly. His office is wonderful, his PA, Lisa, is fantastic. Yes, sometimes there is a wait but that is not the norm (in my experience). I'm very, very pleased to say I'm back to my original activity level and pain free!!!!!

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr Millstein was nice enough to see me on an emergency basis today. His office is very nice and really clean, and runs in a seamless manner. Very calm and efficient. The office provides state of the art equipment. Dr Millstein is very personable and was very patient with me during my appointment. He educated me on my condition and assured me everything would be ok. Before I left he made sure I didn't have any questions. This office is definitely bringing their A game!

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

Dr. Khurana was one of the most amazing physicians I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. Not only was he thoughtful, attentive, understanding, compassionate, but also vested in my recovery. He listened to my questions, I never felt rushed, and he was always there to ease my concerns and help me through my treatment. My spinal injury was a multi-year debacle and I was basically an invalid. Being in my mid-twenties, it was more than depressing not being able to do what I wanted to physically. After my surgery with Dr. Khurana, I got my life back. Dr. Khurana gave me my life back. I'm now back in the gym, playing sports, competitively swimming, and living my life - all thanks to the hands and know-how of Dr. Khurana. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone having spinal issues. I'm back to 100%. He didn't push me for surgery, and we tried several other options prior to. My only regret was waiting two years to find Dr. Khurana, but boy am I thanking my lucky stars that I did.

Sanjay Khurana, MD

Dr. Khurana was one of the most amazing physicians I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. Not only was he thoughtful, attentive, understanding, compassionate, but also vested in my recovery. He listened to my questions, I never felt rushed, and he was always there to ease my concerns and help me through my treatment. My spinal injury was a multi-year debacle and I was basically an invalid. Being in my mid-twenties, it was more than depressing not being able to do what I wanted to physically. After my surgery with Dr. Khurana, I got my life back. Dr. Khurana gave me my life back. I'm now back in the gym, playing sports, competitively swimming, and living my life - all thanks to the hands and know-how of Dr. Khurana. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone having spinal issues. I'm back to 100%. He didn't push me for surgery, and we tried several other options prior to. My only regret was waiting two years to find Dr. Khurana, but boy am I thanking my lucky stars that I did.

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Sanjay Khurana, MD

From the moment I walked in, I loved the place. The staff was friendly, there was no wait and Dr. Millstein was thorough, kind and professional. I couldn't have been happier with my experience there. Turns out I don't need surgery - just some physical therapy - but I'm glad I went there to find out. Definitely recommend.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

I'm not it ANY way associated with Dr. Millstein and his office outside of the many positive experiences with him and the staff. The least I can do is share here. This is my first review. I am a performer with a touring Broadway production. After many non-surgical treatments for an ongoing shoulder injury, it was time for serious intervention. After researching surgeons around the country I landed here in LA and had an appointment with Dr. Millstein. He was not quick to diagnose without first hearing ALL of my questions/concerns. He was very realistic and truthful about my recovery which any athlete/performer appreciates when your livelihood depends on it. It did not take long for me to decide this was the proper route. The front office has been very communicative, polite, professional. Response to any questions I'd have usually were responded to via callback or email the same day. (Not to mention Dr. Millstein called me the night of my surgery to check up!) The nursing staff in the office is amazing as well. They have always been very encouraging, upbeat, and "in tune". None of this feels "put on" or disingenuous. In approximately 6 or 7 appointments I've not waited more than 10 minutes to be placed in a room. Within another 5 minutes a nurse is taking blood pressure, etc. and another 5 Dr. Millstein is there. Something to consider is other patients, like myself, who have 1000 concerns and Dr. Millstein sits, listens, and answers without rushing. We should appreciate an office that functions this way. What's waiting a bit longer, if needed, to know you (and others) will receive top care? Finally, (and most importantly) I have made a FULL recovery. I am SO glad I went through with surgery with Dr. Millstein. I am back to 8 shows a week with no pain.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

Dr. Bae and his team are very professional and highly competent. After searching for a surgeon and really doing my homework, I settled for Bae. I was extremely impressed with his credentials( you can google them) and I made an appointment to see him. After my initial visit, I instantly felt comfortable. I didn't feel pressured, I just felt I found the right guy. I called his office back a week later and scheduled my L5 s1 fusion/ decompression surgery that I sort of already intuitively knew I needed. I then just went along with my intuition that "this was my guy." As I sit here writing this two weeks to the day post operation, I can only give my utmost gratitude to Bae and his team. Thanks so much, and keep up the wonderful work! I am feeling better each day.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Ok so if you have done your homework, you will learn very quickly that this guy is as good as it gets. I saw "all" of the best guys in town (@500 per appointment) and let me tell you flat out if you want to have or are considering a cervical disc replacement, this is the guy to see. Period. 4 days post op and although my throat is a bit sore it is amazing how little impact my surgery was. He has done more artificial disc replacements, than anyone. Unless you want to simply fuse your neck, there is not a better solution in the LA area period. I will write more later. Do your homework, watch the videos online. This guy knows his craft.

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Hyun Bae, MD

I was referred to Dr Millstein by a friend who was happy with him. I'm glad I was. He performed my rotator cuff surgery. I was scared and nervous as this was my first time ever having any issues with my body, let alone surgery. Dr Millstein took ample time to sit with me prior to surgery and go through in detail what would happen. He's quite busy, but it made me feel good to know he was so generous with his time. The surgery went well and the recovery, although long and painful, has went well too. I'm now 7 months removed from surgery and it appears I'll be almost as good as new. The nurses and his staff are super nice too both in their demeanor and responsiveness. Further as I only had Catastrophic insurance and therefore was going to be paying for this out of pocket they helped me understand the exact costs prior to surgery and were honest and forthright. When the bills came due it was just as they said months prior. Dr. Millstein is quite busy - but he's worth the wait. If you're unlucky enough to have an issue get an appointment with him and don't look back.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

I just can say that it was a wonderful experience. His staff is very helpful the wait was less than 10 minutes but what is more important is that he is a very knowledgeable doctor. He will listen to your questions and explain them thoroughly . I had a knee dislocation and the MRI results were not very good but he was able to detect a mistake in the reading and gave me peace of mind. He has great bed side manners and is a compassionate and caring doctor. I was referred to him by Dr Sunu Alhluwalia also an excellent doctor but since he was out of network and I need surgery he referred me to him. I don't have enough words to say the peace I feel after visiting him. I have tear tendons and will need surgery. I trust that my recovery is going to be just fine with him. Finding a orthopedian surgeon is a challenge particularly when mobility is at stake. I am glad I found him.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

I had surgery on my back in March 2014 and I had a number of issues finding a doctor which you can read about (if you want... http://www.huffingtonpost.com/noam-friedlander/affordable-care-act-costs_b_5149120.html). I have to say, that of all the doctors I visited, Dr Bae's office was the most helpful - even before I actually made an appointment to see them. In total, I ended up meeting with around six surgeons, I did A LOT of research, and settled on Dr Bae and his team. He had operated on TWO of my friends, all successfully, and is an expert in his field. The surgery - a massively herniated disc L4/L5 - WAS a success. I received plenty of help prior to the surgery and my emails and questions were all answered in a timely manner PLUS I had a number of follow up appointments to check my progress. I tried everything I could to avoid having surgery, and, as was suggested, I did physical therapy before the operation to see if that could alleviate the pain as well as two epidurals. I found that the office NEVER tried to push me to have an unnecessary surgery, they were incredibly kind and patient, and, it was swiftly apparent to all after my MRI that surgery was now my only option. There aren't many people I would trust to stick a knife in my back, but I truly trusted Dr. Bae, and was rewarded with my mobility back. Everyone's post surgical results are different - physical therapy, diet and looking after myself are all my responsibility BUT I feel I gave myself the best shot by selecting Dr. Bae to be my surgeon. Highly recommended.

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Hyun Bae, MD

I finally made an appointment with Dr. Bae and that decision and the surgery that followed has changed my life. I feel incredible, pain- free, and filled with gratitude to him. I am a new person, with hope again for all that life has to offer. That sounds dramatic, I know, but when you've been in pain for so long, it's true. Dr. Bae thoughtfully considered my medical background and integrated it with my lifestyle to come up with a personalized solution for me. He is intelligent and caring, you couldn't find a better doctor and surgeon. He deserves the highest praise!

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Hyun Bae, MD

An aged athlete who refuses to give up, I suffered a knee injury that proved to be a turn meniscus. After consulting with friends who'd had bad experiences with other orthopods who, though good doctors, forced them to wait for hours and in general didn't seem to care, I found Dr. Millstein. On my three visits to Dr. Millstein's office, I never waited more than five minutes. He could not have been more cordial and friendly. My operation and recovery went like clockwork with limited pain and discomfort. Two months later I am athleticizing in full swing, wondering if I'll start training for a triathlon. Life being what it is, and me being who I am, I expect I'll have another injury one day; and I won't hesitate to have Dr. Millstein deal with it.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

ONE OF THE BEST!!! This was one of the best doctor experiences I've had recently. From the first contact with the office to make an appointment, through sending me all the necessary paperwork, appointment confirmation and the doctor visit itself (including almost no wait time) it was nothing but pleasure. Dr. Milstein's Beverly Hills office deserves the highest praise. Especially after having a really unpleasant experience with another known doctor from D.I.S.C (Marina Del Rey), I expected what the norm for orthopedic surgeons has become in recent years. Not so. Dr. Milstein is one of the most pleasant, considerate and caring doctors I have encountered in quite some time. As a personal trainer/someone who needs to stay very healthy and active, I am very discerning when it comes to choosing physicians I work with, or recommend to my clients. In my opinion, the knowledge is just as important as service and attitude, since what good is the best knowledge if you don't feel comfortable with the person and the office is sub-par. What sets Dr. Milstein apart from others is a lack of arrogance so commonly seen in many doctors these days. I always thought that with age and experience comes humbleness, but usually it's arrogance instead. Dr. Milstein, even though still very young, is an exception. I hope he never changes.

Eric S. Millstein, MD

I echo the other fantastic reviews. Best experience with an orthopedic surgeon I've ever had and best you could hope for! 1) Dr. Millstein obviously knows his area of expertise and is a very skilled surgeon 2) He actually listens to you and takes his time to discuss your symptoms, his thoughts and the reasons for them (not just his conclusions!) and to answer your questions. This last is a real source of irritation for me with many physicians. 3) His staff were efficient, warm and friendly. Appointments were a breeze to schedule. 4) The surgery (torn miniscus) was quick and unbelievably problem free. I was up almost immediately and off crutches the next day. 5) The follow up appointment was another great conversation and I left feeling like I was a real part of my treatment plan.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

I went to see Dr. Millstein for a meniscus tear that needed repair and had about as positive a surgical experience as one can hope for. I was back on my feet within a few days of the procedure, with minimal swelling and no pain. In short, a terrific outcome. Aside from being a great surgeon, Dr. Millstein is personable, caring, and runs a great office. They got me in for appointments with minimal wait time, were very accommodating regarding the surgical center where I needed (for insurance reasons) to schedule my procedure, and made sure that I had the necessary equipment for a quick and full recovery. I'd go back to Dr. Millstein without hesitation if I'm ever faced with anything like this again.

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Eric S. Millstein, MD