Spine and back reviews

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!

Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Bae has successfully removed three discs in my upper spine and saved me interminable suffering of tingling and pain in my fingers and hands on both sides! He is a surgical “artist”’ both technically and aesthetically. He is conservative in his diagnostic approach and careful to recommend all PT efforts be taken before resorting to surgery. I trust Dr. Bae as I have been through 2 surgeries and several consultations over the past 10 years.

Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Bae is extremely knowledgeable, personable, and is an expert in his field. My husband had a very successful back surgery several years ago which was done by Dr. Bae. I have some back issues now and Dr. Bae will be my surgeon of choice if in fact I do need surgery at a later date.

Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Bae and his team were amazing, start to finish. It’s hard to believe that something as complex as Cervical Disc Replacement surgery could be handled so smoothly, and the fact that it was completely an outpatient procedure made it even more comfortable. I’m going to be recovering for a bit but I just had the surgery a week ago and I’m already feeling 200% better. Would definitely recommend Dr. Bae to anyone in need of this kind of procedure!

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

Dr. Bae and his staff are extraordinary. 5 years ago Dr. Bae surgically repaired my wife’s back with a synthetic disc that he created and installed. Three months ago he put 2 new synthetic discs in my lower spine, relieving the nagging pain I’ve dealt with for years. I can’t recommend him and his staff highly enough. He’s the best.

Hyun Bae, MD

Dr Bae is not only an excellent spine surgeon, he actually cares about his patients. We love him!

Hyun Bae, MD

Great office , got me into before xmas, really nice and very competent, helpful. Dr Bae has replaced with spreaders two cervical discs already. I was afraid I’d need another surgery, but he’s getting me a cortisone shot instead! Yay! I didn’t want another surgery so relieved for him to say “ shot!” Before I even asked him about it. Arranged in a few weeks.

Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Bae is a wizard. I had 2 cervical discs replaced with artificial ones. It has gone completely smoothly. He made sure that I made it into his schedule. St. John's, where he performed the surgery, was terrific. His PA is great. I highly recommend him. We have recommended him to friends who have been similarly happy.

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

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!

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.

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Hyun Bae, MD

This is a follow up review regarding my surgery on C3-C4, artificial disc placed August, 2018. I am so grateful for Dr Bae and team for the excellent results. As a busy Dentist, I was back to work in two weeks with complete mobility and zero pain. Dr Bae is dedicated to providing the utmost in spinal surgery.

Hyun Bae, MD

I fell off of my Ladder at my mountain home. At the time I didn’t realize I had broken my spine…Not a lot of pain at first. I consulted with some doctors at the time, but they all said that after surgery I could experience some pain so I decided to wait and see how I would heal. As time went by my legs started bothering me. My Doctor friend referred me to the Surgeon Dr Bae. My doctor said Dr. Bae was the “best”. After consulting and research I was confident to have Dr. Bae do the surgery April 2022. The surgery went very well and there was little pain …Excellent work. I am very pleased with my total experience, including Cedars Sinai Hospital, UCLA Hospital . I agree with My Doctor friend…Dr. Bae is the best!

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!

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Hyun Bae, MD

Incredible results from an incredible spine surgeon! Dr. Hyun Bae possesses a completely different level of understanding and surgical skill-set that elevates him well above his peers in his field of expertise. Just look at his resume, it's clear why he's considered the best spine surgeon in the U.S. by those who've had the pleasure of being repaired by him. It wasn't by chance that I went to Dr. Bae, I researched spine surgeons in the U.S. extensively and interviewed several before concluding Dr. Bae was clearly the most talented surgeon I could select. And he didn't disappoint me! The entire staff at The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration is very professional and highly efficient. This included scheduling my appointments, working with my insurance company, coordinating my surgeries and all follow-up appointments, including phone calls checking on my recovery progress. Tackling my complicated issue required two separate cervical spine surgeries. The first consisted of a posterior laminotomy, medial facetectomy and foraminotomy at level C7/T1, followed 3-weeks later with a complete 2-level anterior disc replacement at levels C5/C6 & C6/C7. State of the art titanium/polymer artificial discs were securely implanted, providing me with a full range of motion and pain-free use of my neck. Both surgeries were performed at the Advanced Surgical Center of Beverly Hills on an outpatient basis, which would have been unimaginable just 5-years ago. Amazingly, my disc replacement surgery began at 7am and I was in my vehicle being driven home at 1pm the same day, wearing only a soft neck brace for the ride home, which I never needed to wear again. My recovery and pain management has been way better than anticipated. In fact, the most difficult part of my entire recovery has been forcing myself to take it easy to give myself time to heal, simply because I feel so good. It's only been 7-weeks since my second surgery and I honestly feel like I can physically do anything without pain or limitations. I'm patiently waiting for Dr. Bae's clearance before returning to my regular workouts, active lifestyle, and pursuit of competitive golf. My recommendation to anyone in the U.S. searching for the finest spine surgeon available to diagnose and perform spine surgery on them is to include Dr. Hyun Bae on your list to interview. Resist the urge of selecting your spine surgeon simply based on geographical conveniences. Travel if necessary, your spine is too important.

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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.

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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.

Hyun Bae, MD

Dr Bae saved my life. I had three degenerated discs in my neck. That was 16 years ago and I’m now 72 and work full time at my own business. I’m so grateful to him!

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

If you need back surgery, you cannot find a better surgeon than Dr. Bae!! My diagnosis was spinal stenosis. My symptoms were pain in my right hip and leg, plus muscle weakness. I am 78 years old and was nervous about back surgery, so I opted for steroid injections in my back, and this reduced the pain for a couple of months, but did nothing to help the weakness. Then, four months ago, I had been sitting on my couch and as I went to stand up, I leaned over to one side and must have twisted my back, when suddenly I was in immense pain and was unable to move my right foot! I went to the emergency room and had an MRI and was told I needed surgery! This is when I called Dr. Bae's office and was told to send my MRI disc and was given an immediate appointment after talking to Dr. Bae's assistant. I saw Dr. Bae on Friday, and watched him review my MRI - his comment was "wow, you need to have surgery, and we can do it on Tuesday!" I was sent nearby for an immediate second MRI and giveen my pre-op instructions for checking in to St. John's that Tuesday. I walked out the next morning with no pain. My leg weakness is steadily getting better with therapy and I was able to return to playing badminton in 2 months! Dr. Bae has literally saved my way of life. I could not walk without a walker when I had my surgery. Now I am walking my Border Collie and playing badminton!

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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.

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Hyun Bae, MD