Hyun Bae, MD
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53 written reviews
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Dr. Bae and his staff were very thorough, knowledgeable and answered all my questions.
Hyun Bae, MD
I had a good consultation with Dr. Bae and was actually quite hopeful after our meeting. He explained what could be done in Layman's terms and gave me a good amount of time.
Hyun Bae, MD
I was suffering terribly with neck pain for years and my last resort option was surgery. Prior to going to Dr. Bae my option was fusion of the discs in my neck that would limit my neck movement. Dr Bae offered another option that would give me complete mobility in my next that would not involve fusion. He spent a lot of time with me explaining the procedure and its previous successes. His staff was amazing as well. I am so happy with the results; no more pain or debilitating migraines and I now have complete flexibility of movement in my neck. Dr Bae has been a godsend and I would highly recommend him to anyone who is suffering from spinal issues.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae is very professional, yet down to earth, and comforting. Spinal surgery, in and of itself, is a rather daunting thought, but his expertise, thorough research of my case, and the way he explained the process, and recovery made my decision easy. Surgery has been scheduled, and I’m looking forward to having a healthy and working spine.
Hyun Bae, MD
Amazing staff, from start over the phone following the in person appointment with Dr Bae was great !. very attentive professional and kind Dr Bae has great bedside manners explained everything and took the time, highly professional and extremely knowledgeable I have scheduled surgery with him and I feel assured.
Hyun Bae, MD
All I can say is that I’ve now had. Dr. Bay put artificial discs in my neck 10 years ago and literally saved my golfing career. Before coming to him, I could hardly grip a club. Since the surgery, I’ve won seven club championships between two clubs in the last 10 years 6 weeks ago I had db Bae fix my back. I couldn’t walk or put weight on my leg. 4 hours after surgery I walked unassisted around the hospital wing. My sciatica on the left side was severe. Now on the way to recovery #2. Optimistic and can say with conviction that there is a difference in neuro surgeons he is worth every penny he charges. And newsflash he isn’t as expensive as some others. In summary all I can say is that if you have a spine issue listen to this man. He knows his craft. Btw I have the exact same feedback from everyone I e sent to him. He is the best that I know of.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr.Bae always has time to answer all my questions. I never feel rushed. A very caring office
Hyun Bae, MD
He spent a good amount of time answering my questions and thinking out loud what the options were. It significantly reduced my anxiety. He's very present and purposeful. 5 starts all around.
Hyun Bae, MD
Very professional doctor with an excellent bedside manner. Did not advise surgery which is wonderful to hear. Needed a full explanation of my condition which DrBae explained in a logical manner. Very pleased with my visit
Hyun Bae, MD
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
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 Review I had surgery with Dr. Bae and it literally ruined my life. After seeing Dr. Bae periodically and trying some pain management procedures, Dr. Bae suggested a fusion surgery at the age of 27 due to an injury from a motor vehicle accident. Throughout my time seeing Dr. Bae I was deathly afraid because my condition was getting worse and worse and my quality of life was quickly deteriorating as a result. I was a very high-level athlete who was also attending grad school and working at the same time. I was afraid of the pain management procedures that were being recommended to me by my pain management doctor but had them done nonetheless. I kept Dr. Bae in the loop regarding the pain management procedures I had done and he said the lack of relief I had received from the different procedures indicated to him that it was time to go ahead and fuse my spine. Knowing what I know now, this was not correct and I feel he should have directed me to either try a different pain management doctor, or at least additional procedures, before fusing me at such a young age. When I woke up from the fusion surgery, I knew something was wrong. I have never felt such terrible pain in my entire life, even with all of the medications they were giving me to help ease the pain in the hospital. I don’t believe words can do that level of pain justice. I was supposed to be out of the hospital in 1 to 2 days. While I was discharged after 1 to 2 days, I got home and was there for about 30 minutes and then began having incredible difficulty breathing. My girlfriend took my temperature and it was over 102°, Which combined with my incredible difficulty breathing, led to the hospital insisting I rush back to the emergency room to be readmitted. The hospital insisted that someone from my family drive me because they believed an ambulance would take too long in light of the severity of my condition. The hospital kept me for observation for 3 to 4 additional excruciating days and during that time it was discovered I had an infection in my lungs as a result of the surgery and I had blood coagulating inside of my lungs and chest, causing the extreme difficulty breathing. I felt like I was drowning on land, I don’t know how else to describe it. About 4-6 days after the initial surgery I was rushed into an emergency surgery for a pneumohemothorax (I believe that’s what it’s called, not 100% sure). When I woke up from that surgery I truly wished they had just let me die. The pain was indescribable. Like nothing I have ever felt in my life and as an athlete I have had numerous acute injuries over the years. After completing a total of somewhere between 10 to 14 days in the hospital as a result of my “successful” spinal fusion, I was discharged back to my home. For the next 3 to 4 months I could truly barely function. I went from someone who could do well at any sport or activity my entire life to being almost completely unable to care for myself across the board. The way Dr. Bae had explained my recovery would go and the way it actually went were worlds apart. MY PAIN LEVEL NEVER IMPROVED. MY PAIN ONLY GOT WORSE AFTER SURGERY. Following surgery my pain sustained at a level of 8/10 to 10/10. I thought I could not live with the pain I was experiencing prior to surgery, but compared to the pain I feel now on an every day basis, even years later, I WOULD DO ANYTHING TO SOMEHOW GO BACK AND NOT HAVE ALLOWED DR. BAE TO PERFORM MY FUSION SURGERY. During my last appointment with Dr. Bae following surgery, he told me “I don’t know what to do for you. I think you need a spinal cord stimulator. And you will need to see someone else for that.“ Essentially telling me he was done with me....great. Since then I have tried countless additional pain management treatments and procedures to no avail. As any reputable pain management doctor will tell you, a spinal cord stimulator is an absolute last resort, especially for someone my age (27 at the time of surgery, 30 years old now). Length and content of this review were heavily edited to meet the character limit.
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
I just celebrated my one year post op from a major C1 - T2 fusion. My review almost a year ago is still on Yelp. My life has changed radically because I went in knowing that I made the decision to lose mobility to save my quality of life. Having wished for death from the pain I was having, I look back and know I made the right choice. Dr. Bae has walked along side me during this year. He has always been a straight shooter, (and I think some people might struggle with that kind of upfront honesty), but I find it refreshing. He never promised my life would be cake walk, but he said that regarding my pain, I would be at least 85% better. I'd say it's better than that. When I first had my surgery, he thought I would have tremendous pain post op. I had none. The only difficulty has been getting used to not moving my head like I did. But honestly, those who know me would tell you I used to lay in bed all the time I wasn't working not being able to face another day. I will take this life instead. Next month I am starting to deal with my low back, as I have put that off for a long time. There is no one else I would trust with my care. I find Dr. Bae to be the most intelligent and sharp surgeon I've ever met, and I have met many. I continue to find his diagnostic skills second to none. I find him to be caring, funny, and personable. I offered my phone number to him for anyone who had to have a very serious surgery like mine so that they could speak with me directly. I still offer that. I am a very busy person, and I continue to fulfill my role as a college professor in as effective a manner as I ever had at the age of 61. I owe that to Dr. Bae for giving me my life back. One year later and still raving about this man!!! Finally, his staff rock. They are all kind and helpful, and I have pestered them enough to where they could have been annoyed. They answer every question and are also kind and patient. What a blessing to have found Dr. Bae.
Hyun Bae, MD
Before Dr Bae I had seen 4 other back dr's. All told me I had stenosis in my L3-L5 region. All told me I would need fusion. I went through this over a 6 year period. I refused fusion since It would debilitate me for life. One of the earlier Dr's began to perform newer, minimally invasive procedures when a friend who happens to be a anesthesiologist told me to go see Dr Bae. I saw Dr Bae in Nov of 2016. I was more than impressed when he told me I did not need fusion. A Lumbar Laminectomy was his prognosis. I saw Dr Bae again in Jan of 2017. Surgery was scheduled for May 2017. Over the 4 month waiting period things changed and the procedure was changed. Still a Laminectomy but now 2 - 6" Carbon Fiber Rods and a titanium spring would also be implanted. May 15 2017 I went in at 1:30 pm for Surgery. I was in my hospital room at 6:30pm. At 6:30am the next morning I was walking up and down the hallways. I was released 2 days later. 3 weeks later I was back doing light work. Recovery was amazing. I was able to walk 1/4 mile at first, then 1/2 mile and finally a full mile. My only mistake was not going to PT when I was told to. A few issues but 4 weeks later I was a champ again. Dec 2017 I did a 2 mile walk/hike through the desert. I continued to improve. longer walks. less fear about having to park too far away to a store entrance. Sept 2018 I did a 8.5 mile hike through Malibu creek in 3 hours. I could not remember when I was able to go a distance like that with no pain. Dr Bae can be cold. However he was the warmest and patient man when it came to explaining everything to my wife. Before the surgery he made all the time needed. Lisa can be short. But they do care. The whole office staff cares. Amazing surgeon.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Hyun Bae performed lumbar fusion surgery May 15, 2018 at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, CA. My diagnosis was extreme lumbar stenosis, spondylolisthesus, and scoliosis. My legs were giving out from under me and I couldn't walk from the car to the front door even tho' I am athletic and in great shape for 70. Long and short of it, I am extremely happy with the results and grateful we found Dr. Bae. We interviewed several surgeons but found Dr. Bae to be the most informed about my condition and treatment option. His professional attitude was confidence-inspiring, answering all my questions and providing me a sense of security. Back surgery is generally the last therapeutic resolution to extreme back problems and I did everything to prevent having to have it so I am happy but surprised with the results. His staff and his assistant Lisa, were caring, efficient and available throughout the process. That's important if you want your doctor to focus on you! -Guy M.
Hyun Bae, MD
Excellent surgeon. Knowledgeable, smart and caring. His assistant, Lisa, is kind and listens to every word. The whole staff is A-Plus!
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae fixed my neck. I had a couple of failed disks from an injury sustained in JiuJitsu. He replaced the failed disks, and the arm weakness I had experienced the past 18 months was gone as soon as I awoke from surgery. Ask me questions and I will be happy to answer. I want others in pain to get the relief I have had, and navigating your care is not always easy. I know, I have been a RN for 20 years and see the difficulty people have.
Hyun Bae, MD
I had been putting off surgery for probably two years longer than I should have. You can't blame me though anytime you're messing with the cervical spine well they can be scary. Finally the pain was too much and after seeing several orthopedic and neurosurgeons I decided to go with the doctor that came most highly recommended by friends who have had extremely successful surgeries with. It has now been one year since I had a cervical disc replacement by Dr. Bae. I wish I could go back several years and Yell at myself and say don't wait any longer do it! Do it! It is so worth it. Trust Dr Bae with your spine, he is the right doctor. Just to add a little perspective to my review, I have been critical care nurse for 25 years so I know a lot of people in the health industry and you can bet I explored it all. When it finally came time to make a decision the answer was clear, Dr. Bae. Like I said it's been a year since surgery and the answer is still crystal clear, Dr. Bae. Thank you so much to you and all of your team. It feels wonderful not to live with so much pain.
Hyun Bae, MD
I have been suffering from back pain for 40 plus years, sometimes debilitating, sometimes manageable. In the last year it got to the point where I was getting numb more and more frequently and had difficulty standing or walking more than a block. Dr. Bae came to the rescue. I had a laminotomy and spinal fusion. Of course I was nervous but felt confident that Dr. Bae would perform a miracle and he did. I am now 3 months post surgery, returning from Europe where I walked without pain or numbness or any ill effects. In the last week I walked a total of 30 miles sightseeing. I am beyond grateful - the quality of my life is back full force AND I am over 70 and feel like new. Lisa, Dr. Bae's PA, is incredible as is the entire staff. Questions which are probably somewhat irritating are always answered quickly with kindness, adding to the security I felt. A 12 on a scale of 10. Thank you to all!
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr Bae performed disc replacement surgery on me in Jan of 2018, very very pleased with the result. Since surgery I have had very good range of motion, x-rays look great, and no pain. I can return to all activities provided the rest of my body agrees and I don't try and do too much too fast. The whole experience has been very positive. Dr Bae has a warm, confident, and intelligent way about him. He is very patient and easy to talk with. He took as much time with me as needed to explain and educate. He does that for everyone so waiting may be in the cards as he is a very sought after surgeon with a strong track record. Thank you, Dr Bae. Very happy.
Hyun Bae, MD
I chose Dr. Bae over three other, highly recommended spine surgeons and I'm totally convinced I chose brilliantly. I'm 85 years young and have been handicapped with spinal stenosis for forty years. My walking numbness, painful irritation and lack of good balance was ruining my life. I couldn't even walk my dog without sitting on the curb four or five times. I was afraid of an unsuccessful surgery, so I tried two other non surgical solutions. One was a San Fernando Valley fraud chiropractor who promised laser treatments would cure me. The only thing he cured was his empty wallet. Another "doctor" promised that pulling my spine apart with an expensive pulling machine would cure me. He robbed me of $6,000 without doing my spine one bit of good. I finally visited Dr. Bae because two close married friends both had been very happy with his surgery and the wonderful permanent results. Dr. Bae was wonderfully reassuring when he saw my MRI printout, and the successful results of the surgery proved him 100% right. I feel like a young buck again. Thanks Hyun Bae for making me feel smart as hell as well. Also, thankfully, Dr. Bae's P.A., Lisa was always available with intelligent and helpful answers to all of my questions. Jerry Mayer 5/16/17
Hyun Bae, 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.
Hyun Bae, MD
I couldn't have picked a better Dr. for my disk replacement. For over two years I suffered with debilitating neck and shoulder pain due to a damaged disc C5-C6. I saw two surgeons here in Las Vegas and tried all the nonsurgical treatments (anti-inflammatory medications, acupuncture, two rounds of physical therapy and epidural steroid injections) to no avail. Both local surgeons eventually recommended spinal fusion. NO WAY, I said. For over a year, I spent hours researching alternative treatments and that's how I found Dr. Bae. On June 2015, I had my initial consultation. When you enter Dr. Bae's office the first person you will interact with is Julie, Dr. Bae's medical secretary. She is incredibly efficient, helpful and skillful at communicating with nervous patients like myself. When you meet Dr. Bae the first thing you will notice is how confident and forthright he is. First, he examined my medical history and MRI images, he showed my husband and I where the prolapsed disk was pressing against the spinal cord and then he explained (in plain language) what could be done surgically to free up the nerve. Both my husband and I were extremely impressed with Dr. Bae's minimally invasive approach to surgery, his communication skills and sincere desire to stop my pain. The surgery, insurance coverage, hospital stay, follow up care, etc was all made possible by his wonderful PA Lisa. Lisa was instrumental in coordinating the "long distance" planning of my surgery in Santa Monica - most of it through email and phone calls. She was SUPER quick replying to all of my questions! Thank You Lisa. Seven weeks ago, Dr Bae replaced my degenerated disk with a Mobi-C cervical disk and I'm feeling fantastic. I Just completed the first week of physical therapy here in Vegas and for the first time in years I'm starting to live free of pain. If you are struggling with a spinal condition, trust Dr. Bae and his amazing team!
Hyun Bae, MD