Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/spinal-fusion/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. Spinal fusion · Patient experiences # Hyun Bae, MD. *Spinal fusion reviews.* 16 five-star reviews for Dr. Hyun Bae discuss spinal fusion. Patients share stories of 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/spinal-fusion/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/spinal-fusion/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/) [Spinal fusion experiences across our team →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/spinal-fusion/) [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.* If spinal fusion is part of a conversation you are having, hearing what patients chose to share can help you find your own questions. These accounts mention fusion directly; open the full review for the circumstances behind each excerpt. - What would I like explained before making a decision about spinal fusion? - 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 spinal fusion. You can read every rating and written review on [the full clinician profile](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) . 16 written reviews Highest rated first · Newest within each rating > Office is very professional so the overall experience was very good. Dr Bae performed a spinal fusion for me 12 years ago which was life changing. Returned for a checkup recently. I recommend Dr Bae and his team highly. D. connell Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jul 11, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106456996689872003871/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > My experience with Dr. Bae, and his staff has been nothing short of miraculous. The amount of pain I was in before my procedure was relentless, exhausting, and unlivable. Fusion of my entire cervical spine had been suggested by two Arizona prominent orthopedic surgeons. Dr. Bae replaced two disc in my neck and the change was noticeable immediately. When I woke from the anesthesia the first thing I noticed was no pain in my shoulder, arm, or hand. It was all gone. LThe only slight discomfort I had was from the surgical procedure itself, and with two Tylenol a day for a week I felt very little. I'm 63, and this was my first surgical procedure. I was very fortunate to find Dr. Bae and his staff. E. H. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 6/22/25 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=BM50WGuMw98hb5EGm3XKug&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink 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 > 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. A. Miller-George Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Apr 18, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111152352430931793050/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I received some pretty upsetting news about my back. I was told I would need a spinal fusion in the future. I was devastated, and immediately started researching alternatives. I learned about disc replacement and researched the top 36 doctors who perform this operation (in the US). > After researching, I chose Dr. Bae to consult with - he had innovated in the area of disc replacement, his satisfaction rate was thru the roof, and he seemed very understated in his interview. > I set up a consult and he was exactly as I expected! Confident, but not ego-forward. He told me I would be a great candidate for disc replacement, but that I didn't need one. He told me it was way overkill and gave me some ideas and suggestions for treatment if my back started really giving me problems. He also told me I was welcome to visit him at his practice anytime. > He could have 'sold' me on surgery - but he didn't. If I ever do need any surgery or treatment in the future, I will definitely be back! Thank you, Dr. Bae! L. LYNDEN Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Oct 9, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/110240400482824902890/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 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! M. McAllister Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Oct 27, 2021 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112715921326768792697/reviews) Source link type: reviewer activity Attributed clinician: 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. M. Withac Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jun 7, 2020 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106541725708756913733/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I went to Dr. Bae after finding him through an online search for a second opinion. I am so lucky that I had him operate instead of the doctor that I saw before him. I had spinal stenosis and spinal decompression surgery with a spinal fusion was the standard procedure for my diagnosis. Dr. Bae told me about a clinical trial that I might qualify for that could be performed instead of fusion. I qualified and had the surgery. He performed the surgery at an outpatient hospital and I walked out the same day. I was able to drive in a week and returned to work very part time in two weeks. I am able to do so many things I couldn't do before the surgery and am seeing more and more improvement in the four months since the surgery. I had complete confidence in Dr. Bae's abilities and would highly recommend him to anyone that has spinal problems. He is the best!!! G. G. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 9/30/19 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=MUljA2NaTgzMllpidtJWcw&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink 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 > 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! J. E. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 6/3/18 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=9IDKUvzZiEvryHZjj_Harw&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 > If I could give Dr Bae and his team more stars, I would. Today I am post-op day 4 ( anterior cervical disc replacement and hybrid fusion on another level)- I feel amazing. My arm, hand, shoulder and scapula pain was gone since post-op day 1. I have minimal incision pain, a resolving sore throat and some muscle spasms which are expected, but overall I feel much better than prior to my surgery. Dr Bae and his team exceeded all my expectations. I can never thank him and his team enough for giving me a new chance to live a good life- quality of life is very important. :) R. A. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 10/3/14 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=JzYexfxiR44QWT9i1CJtzQ&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > Dr Bae did spacers and fusion on c5-c7. He was very kind before and after the surgery. He has a great deal of integrity and does not perform surgery unless he really sees a benefit for him. I was in horrible pain before the surgery. 6 vicodin a day, two trips to urgent care a week, trigger point shots In my neck. I left the hospital only taking Aleve. Dr. Bae gave me back my quality of life! T. H. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 7/30/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=DRyf2fjRLsFAbtko_bvfvA&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.* Spine ### [6 questions about why fusion is part of the recommendation](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/spinal-fusion-decision/) A fusion recommendation should explain a stabilization problem as well as any nerve pressure. Compare the actual options, the reasons for each step, and the recovery demands before an elective decision. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/spinal-fusion-decision/) ## Complete review collection [Read all 16 written reviews in this collection](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/spinal-fusion/hyun-bae-md/all.md) ## Review pages in Markdown Previous: This is the first review page. 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