Hyun Bae, MD
Compassion and bedside manner reviews
Page 2 of 3.
Back to these patient experiences →
53 written reviews
Highest rated first · Newest within each rating
Clean, new offices, everyone very courteous, kind, helpful. Dr Bae was thorough and nice.
Hyun Bae, MD
The doctor was very compassionate in addition to being a true master of the surgical craft. The scheduling process was quite easy and staff extremely polite and helpful.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr.Bae always has time to answer all my questions. I never feel rushed. A very caring office
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr Bae is the best. Amazing bedside manner and incredible results.
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
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 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 genius. Years of study at Ivy League universities and residency at the nations finest orthopedic hospitals has prepared him to give superior diagnostic care and spinal intervention when needed. I had spinal fusion under his direction and care. Yes I was afraid, but now I am grateful . Lisa, the assistant PA is marvelous, caring,and on top of your healing and pain management! Don’t hesitate see Dr Bae at LA Spine Institute!
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 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
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
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
Finding Dr. Bae was a miracle! I can't begin to list all the reasons why. He drove from Cedars to St. John and showed up at midnight to check on my husband after 5 grueling surgeries. I didn't think doctors existed who would go so far for a patient. Look up his creds, and if you should ever need spine surgery, count yourself lucky if you can connect with him and his amazing assistant, Lisa. Their expert work, kindness, and empathy are very very rare.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Bae and Lisa Cano were two of the most caring and wonderful people I've ever met in my life. Dr. Bae performed a very complicated procedure on my lower spine that was both anterior and posterior. I was in surgery for 6 hours. He and his team had to virtually rebuild my lower spine. I would be in a wheelchair if it was not for him. Lisa was by his side and mine through the entire ordeal. God bless them and their staff for their dedication to their practice!
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
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
In February, I had a bad fall and was in agony. My primary caregiver at Cedars said that all of the surgeons at the Spine Center were highly competent but her recommendation would be that I see Dr. Bae because of his personal attention to each patient and caring manner. I am so grateful for the recommendation because after two lumbar spinal fractures (one burst) I was in excruciating pain but was hesitant to undergo surgery. I actually had no choice in the matter because, in addition to the horrendous pain, my spine was left unstable after the fall. Upon awakening from a three-hour surgery by Dr. Bae, I was instantly relieved of 90% my pain. I am now pain free at the six-week mark post-surgery and have been approved by Dr. Bae for outpatient physical therapy. I couldn't be happier with the results and cannot praise Dr. Bae and his entire team enough!!!
Hyun Bae, MD
Great compassionate Doctor and great PA Lisa. After I had bad luck with two prior back surgeries, I was referred to Dr Bae! He was kind, patient, and cared about me, as well as a fantastic surgeon!
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Hyun Bae did something that 7 other well-known LA neurosurgeons refused to do: take on the tough challenge of correcting a 7-year-old botched surgery. Revisionist surgery is a delicate and difficult undertaking. Everyone else looked at my spine, saw too many problems, and backed off. Dr. Bae looked at the same problems and came up with a plan to fix them. He essentially rebuilt my lower spine. As promised, he took away the constant pain, for which I will be eternally grateful. My initial surgery in 2007 was to correct a foot drop; that "celebrated" surgeon, Dr. Patrick Johnson, not only did NOT correct the problem, but created several more: a deterioration of muscles from the foot on up my entire left side, rendering me unable to walk without knee-high bracing, and with a wheelchair looming in my future. Dr. Bae arrested that progression; there'll be no wheelchair for me now! Nonetheless, even Dr. Bae, amazing as his talents are, couldn't bring back what is already atrophied. However, with the massive remnants of scar tissue and blockages removed, a stronger spine and now pain-free, I can finally attempt to "wake up" what muscles remain and, if I work hard in PT, at least bring back much-needed stability. As you can tell from my story, I'm unfortunately familiar with way too many doctors. I know the difference between waking up from one kind of surgery and the way I felt waking up from this one. One guy was in a hurry, one guy was an artist. Which is why, without reservation, I can confidently recommend Dr. Hyun Bae to help others as he has helped me.
Hyun Bae, MD
Dr. Hyun Bae did something that 7 other well-known LA neurosurgeons refused to do: take on the tough challenge of correcting a 7-year-old botched surgery. Revisionist surgery is a delicate and difficult undertaking. Everyone else looked at my spine, saw too many problems, and backed off. Dr. Bae looked at the same problems and came up with a plan to fix them. He essentially rebuilt my lower spine. As promised, he took away the constant pain, for which I will be eternally grateful. My initial surgery in 2007 was to correct a foot drop; that “celebrated” surgeon, Dr. Patrick Johnson, not only did NOT correct the problem, but created several more: a deterioration of muscles from the foot on up my entire left side, rendering me unable to walk without knee-high bracing, and with a wheelchair looming in my future. Dr. Bae arrested that progression; there’ll be no wheelchair for me now! Nonetheless, even Dr. Bae, amazing as his talents are, couldn’t bring back what is already atrophied. However, with the massive remnants of scar tissue and blockages removed, a stronger spine and now pain-free, I can finally attempt to “wake up” what muscles remain and, with luck and PT, at least bring back much-needed stability. As you can tell from my story, I’m unfortunately familiar with way too many doctors. I know the difference between waking up from one kind of surgery and the way I felt waking up from this one. One guy was in a hurry, one guy was an artist. Which is why, without reservation, I can confidently recommend Dr. Hyun Bae to help others as he has helped me.
Hyun Bae, 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.
Hyun Bae, MD
I've had degenerative disc disease most of my adult life. In my mid 40's I decided to get into shape to reduce the side effects of a bad L5 and in doing so started to get sciatica 5 yrs into my fitness obsession. I went to my first ortho who did nothing but put me on Vicodin (which I refused to take) and prescribed me physical therapy. That only made my situation worse. I had 2 epidural shots which seem to work momentarily but eventually wore off. Then I found dr. Bae!!! This man is an amazing surgeon and doctor! His staff is the best, his bedside manner is great, he's a life changer and I can't recommend him to enough people! He's also into cutting edge technology with the use of stem cells for spine rejuvenation (I think I'm saying that right). Anyway, if your suffering and your quality of life is affected def go see him.....it's worth the time to have your life changed for the better!! Thank you Dr. Bae!!!
Hyun Bae, 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.
Hyun Bae, MD