Getting a second opinion on a potential treatment or surgery is an excellent decision. Patients may feel better about their next steps if they have multiple confirming views, which starts with locating other specialists. Learn how to find qualified spine surgeons for a second opinion in Los Angeles by comparing the leading options from regional medical facilities.
1. Dr. Rojeh Melikian, M.D.
Dr. Rojeh Melikian treats people seeking minimally invasive techniques like microendoscopic and microsurgical solutions for spine conditions. His expertise in preserving motion with options like artificial disk replacement makes him one of the top-rated spine surgeons in LA. Dr. Melikian has won numerous awards for his work and continues to provide exemplary experiences for patients who walk through his door. He is a great option for getting a second opinion on everything from spinal surgery to spine-based tumors.
Key features:
- Board-certified Emory and Harvard University graduate
- Expertise in techniques that preserve motion, such as artificial disk replacement
- Won numerous awards, like the Patient’s Choice Awards and the Partners in Excellence Award
2. Dr. Todd H. Lanman, M.D.
People seek advice from Dr. Todd H. Lanman when they anticipate undergoing spinal surgery. He has years of firsthand knowledge regarding spinal neurosurgeon cases. Dr. Lanman’s patients enjoy pain-free lives due to his approach to compassionate care. His medical perspective always incorporates comprehensive, holistic approaches before relying on surgery. Dr. Lanman considers all aspects of a patient’s daily life so they remain healthy, active and able to achieve their goals.
Key features:
- Trusted by A-list celebrities and musicians
- Treats patients who fly into Los Angeles from global communities
- Trusted by medical professionals as a principal medical investigator for trials involving artificial disk replacement and motion-preserving advancements
3. Dr. Christopher Mikhail, M.D.
Dr. Christopher Mikhail is one of the best spine surgeons at Cedars-Sinai. He understands the importance of spine surgery for transforming a person’s quality of life. Dr. Mikhail notably leads with compassion after his years of experience assisting people fearing complex surgery or living with chronic pain. He listens to what is important for each individual before talking with them about the next steps he would recommend, which is not always surgery.
Key features:
- Experience with numerous spine disorders and treatments
- Graduate of Rush University Medical Center and Columbia University
- Published in multiple peer-reviewed studies
4. Dr. Daniel Nagasawa, M.D.
Anyone seeking a second opinion can contact Dr. Daniel Nagasawa for clarification. He has training in advanced techniques for spinal surgery, even those that are complex in nature. His ability to prioritize patient education and care makes him ideal for any patient who wants another perspective. This surgeon who gives people the respect and dignity they deserve in the medical system.
Key features:
- Neurosurgeon with subspecialization training in complex spinal surgery with advanced techniques
- Communication-first therapeutic strategy prevents confusion during a patient’s experience
- Former patients include celebrities and royalty
5. Dr. Khawar Siddique, M.D., M.B.A.
Dr. Khawar Siddique built his career on providing high-quality outpatient care. His team uses the most advanced technologies to achieve the best outcomes. Dr. Siddique also specializes in complex cases sent to him by other spine surgeons, so anyone can consult with him about their potential treatment or surgery plans.
Key features:
- Board-certified neurosurgeon and founder of the DOCS Surgery Hospital
- Uses the latest technology to diagnose and treat patients
- Expertise in robotic and image-guided spine surgery, among other treatments
Criteria to Find the Best Spine Surgeons
Seeking a second opinion is a complicated process that may become easier with a targeted focus. Anyone can find an excellent spine surgeon for a consult by looking for factors such as:
- A top-quality education and medical training in a relevant spine specialty, like disk replacement or microscopic spine surgery
- Excellent reviews from former patients with similar or challenging cases
- A facility within a health insurance provider’s network to minimize the patient’s costs
Scheduling a consultation appointment is the best next step. Doctors give the best advice after reviewing a patient’s medical history and talking with them one-on-one.
Tips for Requesting a Second Opinion
As people learn how to find qualified spine surgeons for a second opinion in Los Angeles, they should also understand how to ensure the best outcomes for themselves. They can take easy steps to verify any surgeons who seem like potential candidates for a reliable opinion.
Verify the Surgeon’s Credentials
Anyone curious about a potential spine surgeon should look up their credentials. Medical professionals must have board certification in a relevant specialty, fellowship training in spine surgery and an active medical license, which are easy to find on state databases.
Explore Other Treatment Options
Although it might be helpful to get a second opinion regarding a recommended treatment or surgery, people might also have better outcomes by talking with surgeons who specialize in different techniques. While there were 30,485 spine surgeries in 2023, they may not have all been necessary if each patient had gotten a second opinion from someone with experience in a range of treatments.
Compare the Surgeon’s Communication Skills With Reviews
Someone seeking a second opinion should pay attention to each surgeon’s empathy and compassion during discussions. If they do not explain things well, encourage questions or respect the patient’s dignity, the search may need to continue.
Get the Best Medical Advice
Feeling confident about what comes next is much easier after someone learns how to find qualified spine surgeons for a second opinion in Los Angeles. The city is full of experienced medical professionals, so taking the time to get a secondary perspective on a particular case does not have to be complicated.