Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/lower-back/hyun-bae-md/) Reviewer names are abbreviated. Patient reviews describe individual experiences. Review counts describe source records, not unique patients or clinical outcomes; the acquired snapshot may not include complete platform histories. Clinical education and patient accounts do not replace a consultation. Lower back and lumbar spine · Patient experiences # Hyun Bae, MD. *Lower back and lumbar spine reviews.* 17 five-star reviews for Dr. Hyun Bae discuss lower back and lumbar spine care. Patients describe Dr. Bae as kind. Their stories also speak to compassionate care and professional care. Read their words, learn what mattered to them, and bring the questions that matter to you to your next visit. Read the full patient accounts and original sources below. Review totals reflect the source ratings available here. [Hear from patients ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/lower-back/hyun-bae-md/#review-browser) [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) [Read this page as Markdown](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/lower-back/hyun-bae-md/index.md) ![Hyun Bae, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/hyun-bae-md.jpg) A person behind your care ## Get to know *Hyun Bae.* Dr. Hyun Bae is a nationally recognized spine surgeon known for pioneering motion-preserving solutions for the neck and lower back. Rather than defaulting to spinal fusion, he focuses on advanced techniques like artificial disc replacement (ADR) to protect movement and help patients return to active, pain-free lives. Patients often describe him as a miracle worker—not only for his surgical expertise, but for his warmth, clarity, and compassion throughout the process. Many report being pain-free after surgery and appreciate his ability to explain complex procedures in a way that’s easy to understand. His team is equally known for their professionalism and prompt, supportive care from start to finish. Fluent in English and Korean, Dr. Bae brings deep experience, a calming presence, and a strong belief in doing what’s best for each individual patient. Outside of the OR, he stays active with golf, snowboarding, and playing pickleball with his daughters. Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement Multi-Level Disc Replacement Motion Preservation Minimally-Invasive Techniques [Meet Hyun Bae at Commons Clinic ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) ## Keep getting to know us. [All reviews for Hyun Bae →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) [Lower back and lumbar spine experiences across our team →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/lower-back/) [Staff and office experience reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/staff/hyun-bae-md/) [Spine and back reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/spine/hyun-bae-md/) [Pain experiences reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/pain-symptoms/hyun-bae-md/) [Recovery and return to activity reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/recovery/hyun-bae-md/) [Compassion and bedside manner reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/compassion/hyun-bae-md/) [Listening and clear explanations reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/communication/hyun-bae-md/) Bring what matters to you ## Your questions *belong in the conversation.* Start with the experiences patients share about lower back and lumbar spine care. Browse our clinicians side by side with the reviews that mention this area, then open a profile to learn more about their clinical focus. - What symptoms, activities or concerns do I most want to discuss? - Which details in these patient accounts would I like to ask our team about? In their own words ## Care feels personal. *So do these stories.* These are individual experiences. A topic mention does not establish who performed a procedure, medical suitability or a typical result. This collection shows written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars that mention lower back and lumbar spine. You can read every rating and written review on [the full clinician profile](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) . 18 written reviews Highest rated first · Newest within each rating > Thank you Dr Bae and Bernadette for the best experience I could have possibly had having lower back surgery . You and your staff were so kind and made me feel very comfortable and heard ! Thank you for getting me back to being able to walk again without pain ! The pre-operative care and after care I received was by far the best I’ve ever experienced ,and it was truly a miracle I found this clinic ! I can’t thank you enough wishing you and everyone there a very happy new year ! M. Harris Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: 45 weeks ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104224475656382925681/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the life-changing surgery you performed on June 17, 2025. > As you know, I had emergency laminectomy surgery on May 30, 2024, in Wisconsin, which left me with significant numbness in both legs, limited toe mobility, and intense pain from my hip to my left knee. A specialist in California informed me that these issues could become permanent if they persisted for six months after the surgery. I suffered with this condition for a year, and it took me four months to even begin walking without assistance of a walker o cane after the surgery in Wisconsin. > When I came to see you in Santa Monica in April 2025, you offered hope that you could correct my desperate pain and numbness. The results of the spinal surgery you performed on vertebrae 3, 4, and 5, where you also placed two screws in vertebrae 3 and 4, have been nothing short of incredible. Just ten days after surgery, I was able to walk without the help of a walker or cane. > Now, two and a half months post-surgery, the improvement is profound. I can walk for up to an hour without any leg pain, and I experience only minimal discomfort in my lower back. I went from being unable to walk for more than eight minutes due to unbearable pain (level 8) to being able to walk for an hour without problems. > Dr. Bae, your professionalism and that of your staff are truly extraordinary. I feel blessed that you performed my surgery and have changed my life from one of frustration and pain to one without pain at all. Thank you for everything. God bless your heart. I. Velazquez Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Sep 8, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/101122060762346632576/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > Dr.Bae is the 4 th surgeon I consulted with for my cervical and lumbar issues.He gave me the least invasive, cutting edge and advanced surgery options with the quickest recovery! Hopefully the results will follow 🙏🙏 very impressive Dr. H. O'Melia Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jul 1, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104846441423120523903/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I met Dr Bae ten years ago when i jas travelled Europe trying to find a solution for my back pain that didn't involve fusion in my cervical and lumbar spine > I flew to LA from London to me Dr Bae > Dr Bae gave me solutions and more. For the first tine in ten years i was able to dance with my husband at a wedding and he jas neen there for me online whenever I have needed him > Ten years later as my back degenerates further Dr Bae is there for me with options and support > There is no one i trust more > He is years ahead ! Innovative yet always kind. He will never recommend a treatment purely for the fees > One of a kind surgeon and person. G. Dellipiani Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jun 15, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/107017444740002004954/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > Dr. Bae is the best! I have had 2 lumbar surgeries and 1 cervical surgery on my neck. He is a pioneer in spine surgery and has invented several new parts to aid in the benefit of spinal surgery. I wouldn’t go to anyone else! C. Ker Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jun 6, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104649684028765067202/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: 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! A. E. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 4/11/22 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=LvhYlcEwaA8bHpKadcCBLw&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: 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. C. Deaver Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Dec 8, 2020 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111347006880616755182/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: 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. K. Woods Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Dec 17, 2019 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/114720320437064301514/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: 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. V. L. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 7/29/19 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=ui1GhLxNkZFaBEr4Sjn4BQ&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: 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. M. Mueller Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: May 2, 2019 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/116402600147045135780/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: 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. H. M. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 9/10/18 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=oB-PjnL_Vi2IPD5gPWJ_Ng&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: 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!!! S. L. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 5/11/17 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=VtauD16CkkZ43gyhLLSsBg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I had a lumbar fusion 6 weeks ago and am doing wonderfully. I am sorry I waited a year to do it while I tried every alternative to stop the pain running down the back of my leg. Dr. Bae is the best. He knows his skill and his confidence helped me feel relaxed and assured it would go well. Also the PA Lisa was terrific. She responded to my emails almost immediately. So wonderful to have surgery with them. M. W. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 1/12/17 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=yjsIHuEgjz-xukvoxOjmug&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > Terrific surgeon couldn't be better operated on my lower back over a year ago now after rehab & weight loss I couldn't feel better. Dr. Bae works Cedar Sinai Medical Center as well as St. John's Hospital. He's the best in my book!!!! T. H. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 8/20/16 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=0NpRGMJzFvCUtE3-hbkPGQ&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: 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. J. N. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 5/12/16 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=5c6ncwIMqSL9UH79NQuyxg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I would highly highly recommend Dr. Bae to anyone suffering with back pain! Through the years I have gone to several orthopedist and neurologist. I was actually scheduled to have a fusion in my lower back. I heard about Dr. Bae and got an appointment to see him. On my first visit I could see that he was so knowledgeable,kind and caring. He recommended that I sign up for a clinical trial. I was approved and got an injection about a month later. After about two and a half weeks I felt a significant improvement. I did not have the lingering ache, that I have had for years. It's a miracle!!! G. S. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 7/9/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=arqGYxbKG2z4MvE7d2K05A&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I just came back from my 8:am appointment at cidar sinai spine center. Dr Bae, actually took the time to explain pros and cons of all possible procedures for my back pain, very knowledgeable and I have done my research. His clinic is participating in a clinical study that might give a solution to my problem (lower back pain without radiation to the legs). Very sincere guy, was truly helpful, and hopefully this will lead to a solution long sought. > I just started to read about it...intresting stuff..relievan sense relief. > I'll keep you posted D. Z. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 2/7/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=Vk21p0-Kep7pEnJ-rxxhAw&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > Dr. Bae has been great. I had a lower back injury and participated in a clinical trial. Dr. Bae was my physician for all follow-up appointments for a period of 1 year following my procedure. I found him to be kind, direct, thorough and attentive. If you're looking for a caring, qualified physician in this field, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Hyun Bae, MD. T. S. Rating: 4/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 5/20/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=J7GhrDKVcKM0kRQeRnBTaw&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD A little more understanding ## Feel ready for *your next conversation.* Physical therapy ### [7 things a useful back-therapy plan should explain](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/physical-therapy-low-back-pain/) When back pain makes an ordinary day difficult, a useful physical therapy plan connects the assessment to the things you want to do again. These seven conversations can help you understand the purpose of treatment, practice with more confidence, and recognize when the plan needs another look. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/physical-therapy-low-back-pain/) Spine ### [8 questions about treatment when stenosis limits walking](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/lumbar-spinal-stenosis-care/) A newer technique is useful when it fits the cause of your symptoms. Compare lumbar stenosis treatments through walking goals, evidence, alternatives, and the practical care each option requires. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/lumbar-spinal-stenosis-care/) ## Complete review collection [Read all 18 written reviews in this collection](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/lower-back/hyun-bae-md/all.md) ## Review pages in Markdown Previous: This is the first review page. Next: This is the last review page. - [Page 1](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/lower-back/hyun-bae-md/index.md) ## Publisher & attribution Commons Clinic Reviews is operated by Commons Clinic. 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