Top Neurosurgeon in Los Angeles: Expert Care for Brain and Spine Health

When faced with a brain or spine disorder, choosing the right neurosurgeon can be one of the most important decisions of your life. The stakes are high; your health, your future, and often your identity are on the line. That’s why patients from across the country seek care from the top neurosurgeons in Los Angeles, a city renowned for cutting-edge medicine and elite neurosurgical talent.

Whether you are dealing with a complex brain tumor or a debilitating spine condition or you need a second opinion, this guide will help you navigate the best neurosurgical minds that Los Angeles has to offer. You’ll find expert recommendations, selection criteria, and a spotlight on one of the world’s most accomplished neurosurgeons, Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol.

Los Angeles is home to numerous hospitals and neurosurgery centers, but not all specialists are equal. When curating this list, we considered the following:

• Board Certification and Fellowship Training
• Academic and Research Contributions
• Patient Outcomes and Reviews
• Surgical Volume and Specialization
• Institutional Affiliations
• Technological Innovation (such as use of minimally invasive surgery and intraoperative imaging)
• National/International Recognition

This list includes neurosurgeons who specialize in brain tumors, aneurysms, functional neurosurgery, spinal disorders, pediatric neurosurgery, and more.

Dr. Cohen-Gadol (Cohen) stands at the pinnacle of modern neurosurgery. Best known as the founder of The Neurosurgical Atlas, widely referred to as the "Bible of modern neurosurgery," Dr. Cohen has revolutionized how surgeons are trained worldwide. His intricate microsurgical techniques, especially in treating deep-seated brain tumors, cavernous malformations, and complex aneurysms as well as spine disorders, have influenced thousands of neurosurgical procedures globally.

At Cedars-Sinai and Saint John’s Medical Centers in Los Angeles, he offers patients personalized, precise, and compassionate care using minimally invasive approaches and advanced intraoperative tools. His surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction rates are among the highest nationally. More than just a gifted surgeon, Dr. Cohen-Gadol is a teacher, innovator, and visionary whose expertise is frequently sought for second opinions on the most difficult cases. He has performed over 7400 complex surgeries.

A pioneer in brain tumor surgery and blood–brain barrier research, Dr. Black has great experience with brain surgeries. He is known for blending aggressive surgical approaches with emerging biotechnology.

As Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Dr. Black also serves as Director of the Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute and holds the Ruth and Lawrence Harvey Chair in Neuroscience. Since joining Cedars-Sinai in 1997, he has transformed the neurosurgery program from a small division into a leading department that now performs hundreds of complex brain surgeries each year. He has built a reputation for taking on the most challenging cases, including tumors considered inoperable at other centers.

In addition to his surgical expertise, Dr. Black is a leading researcher dedicated to advancing brain cancer treatment. His groundbreaking work includes developing methods to open the blood-brain barrier for targeted chemotherapy delivery, as well as creating cancer vaccines, tumor immunotherapies, and advanced brain-mapping techniques. Over the course of his career, he has performed thousands of brain tumor operations, blending precision, innovation, and compassion. His contributions have saved countless lives and expanded the boundaries of what is possible in modern neurosurgery.

One of the nation’s foremost pituitary tumor and skull base surgeons, Dr. Kelly has pioneered minimally invasive endoscopic approaches with excellent long-term results.

With decades of experience, Dr. Kelly is known for his precision, innovation, and patient-centered approach. He has treated thousands of individuals with complex brain tumors, including pituitary adenomas, meningiomas, and craniopharyngiomas, often providing surgical solutions where others have found cases too difficult to address. His work has helped redefine standards for skull base surgery, making procedures safer, less invasive, and more effective.

In addition to his surgical achievements, Dr. Kelly is deeply committed to research and education. He has published extensively in leading medical journals, trained numerous neurosurgeons in advanced endoscopic techniques, and continues to develop new methods to improve patient outcomes. His leadership at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute has positioned it as a premier center for neurological care and innovation, benefiting patients from across the United States and around the world.

Known for his integrative approach to neuro-oncology, Dr. Yang specializes in brain tumor removal, radiosurgery, and patient-centered research.

Dr. Yang has extensive experience treating a wide range of brain tumors, including gliomas, meningiomas, and metastatic lesions. He is known for tailoring each treatment plan to the individual patient, often blending surgical precision with targeted radiosurgery to maximize effectiveness while minimizing recovery time and side effects. His patient-focused philosophy ensures that individuals and their families are supported and informed throughout the treatment process.

In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Yang is actively involved in research aimed at improving brain tumor outcomes and advancing minimally invasive techniques. He has published widely in peer-reviewed journals, contributed to leading textbooks in neurosurgery, and participates in clinical trials exploring new therapies. His dedication to both science and patient care has established him as a trusted leader in the field of neuro-oncology.

A leader in minimally invasive spine surgery, Dr. Liu’s innovative work helps patients recover faster with less pain and fewer complications.

Dr. Liu specializes in treating a wide range of spinal conditions, including degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and complex spinal deformities. He is known for combining advanced surgical technology with meticulous technique to achieve optimal outcomes, while prioritizing patient safety and comfort. His approach allows many patients to return to their daily lives more quickly, with improved mobility and reduced discomfort.

Beyond his surgical practice, Dr. Liu is dedicated to research, education, and advancing the field of spine surgery. He has authored numerous publications, taught surgeons around the world, and continues to develop new minimally invasive procedures that improve patient outcomes. Through his leadership and innovation, he has helped establish Keck Medicine of USC as a center of excellence for spine care.

Dr. Adam Mamelak, MD is a neurosurgeon at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, recognized as a leader in pituitary tumor surgery and the treatment of movement disorders. He combines advanced surgical expertise with innovative techniques to deliver precise, effective care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Dr. Mamelak specializes in minimally invasive approaches to pituitary tumors, using endoscopic and microsurgical methods that reduce recovery time and improve patient comfort. In addition, he has extensive experience in the surgical management of movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor, often incorporating deep brain stimulation to enhance patient quality of life. His meticulous approach and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes have earned him a reputation for excellence in both complex and delicate procedures.

Beyond his surgical practice, Dr. Mamelak is actively involved in research and medical innovation. He has contributed to the development of new surgical tools and techniques, published extensively in leading medical journals, and is committed to training the next generation of neurosurgeons. His work continues to shape advancements in both pituitary and movement disorder surgery, benefiting patients locally and worldwide.

With dual training in neuroscience and neurosurgery, Dr. Liu focuses on neurorestoration, spinal cord injury, and neuromodulation for complex neurological disorders.

Dr. Liu specializes in integrating advanced surgical techniques with cutting-edge research to restore lost neurological function. His expertise spans innovative therapies for spinal cord injury, brain injury, and degenerative neurological diseases, often combining neurosurgical intervention with rehabilitative strategies. He is known for taking a comprehensive, patient-centered approach that addresses both the medical and functional aspects of recovery.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Liu is a recognized leader in neuroscience research and education. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, led groundbreaking clinical trials, and collaborated internationally to advance the field of neurorestoration. His work continues to shape the future of neurological recovery, offering hope and improved outcomes to patients worldwide.

An expert in skull base and pituitary tumors, Dr. Zada blends surgical precision with translational research for treating rare and complex cranial pathologies.

Dr. Zada has extensive expertise in minimally invasive and endoscopic approaches to skull base and pituitary surgery, allowing for safer procedures, faster recovery, and reduced complications. He regularly treats challenging cases such as craniopharyngiomas, chordomas, meningiomas, and other tumors affecting critical brain structures. His commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as a surgeon who can skillfully manage cases requiring both technical mastery and creative problem-solving.

In addition to his surgical work, Dr. Zada is a dedicated researcher and educator. He has published widely in leading neurosurgical journals, contributed to advancements in intraoperative imaging and tumor visualization, and mentors the next generation of neurosurgeons. Through his dual focus on clinical care and research innovation, he continues to advance the understanding and treatment of complex skull base and pituitary disorders.

Dr. William Mack, MD is a leading neurosurgeon at Keck Medicine of USC, specializing in the surgical and endovascular management of brain aneurysms. Renowned for his expertise in treating complex cerebrovascular conditions, he blends advanced microsurgical techniques with state-of-the-art endovascular approaches to provide tailored, effective care for each patient.

Dr. Mack’s practice encompasses the full spectrum of cerebrovascular disease, including aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, and ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. By combining open surgery and minimally invasive endovascular methods, he offers comprehensive treatment options that minimize risks while optimizing recovery. His skill and precision have earned him recognition as a trusted surgeon for some of the most challenging vascular cases in the brain.

Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Mack is deeply committed to research, education, and innovation in the field of neurovascular surgery. He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, led clinical studies aimed at improving treatment outcomes, and trained numerous neurosurgeons in advanced vascular techniques. Through his leadership, he continues to advance both the science and practice of cerebrovascular care.

Dr. Patrick Johnson, MD is a neurosurgeon at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, recognized as a leader in the surgical management of complex spine disorders. With decades of experience, he is known for delivering advanced, highly precise surgical solutions for patients with challenging spinal conditions.

Dr. Johnson specializes in treating a broad range of spine disorders, including spinal deformities, degenerative diseases, traumatic injuries, and tumors affecting the spinal column. His expertise spans both traditional open surgery and minimally invasive approaches, enabling him to tailor each procedure to the patient’s specific needs while optimizing outcomes and minimizing recovery time. His commitment to innovation and excellence has earned him a reputation as a trusted authority in spine surgery.

In addition to his surgical practice, Dr. Johnson is actively involved in research and education aimed at advancing spinal care. He has authored numerous publications, contributed to the development of new surgical techniques and technologies, and trained spine surgeons from around the world. His leadership at Cedars-Sinai continues to shape the future of spine surgery, improving the lives of patients with complex spinal disorders.

Choosing a neurosurgeon is more than checking credentials; it’s about trust, alignment, and specialization.

• How many surgeries like the one that I need have you performed?
• What are the complication and recurrence rates?
• Do you use advanced technologies (such as intraoperative navigation and/or minimally invasive techniques)?
• Will I have access to a multidisciplinary care team?

Is the neurosurgeon affiliated with a high-performing hospital or academic center? Do they participate in clinical trials or publish peer-reviewed research? Look for someone who not only treats patients but also advances the field.

Your neurosurgeon should listen to you, explain risks in plain language, and make you feel empowered, not intimidated.

Los Angeles is a global destination for neurosurgical excellence. From brain tumors and aneurysms to complex spine disorders and neurorestorative therapies, neurosurgeons in Los Angeles represent the cutting edge of medical science. Among them, Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol stands out as a master surgeon, innovator, and educator.

No matter your diagnosis, you deserve a surgeon who combines world-class technical skill with compassionate care. Use this guide as your starting point, but always consult with specialists to determine the best course for your unique situation.

UCLA Health and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center are nationally ranked for neurosurgery and neurology. Keck Medicine of USC is also a top-tier academic hospital offering specialized care with neurosurgeons.

While many are highly accomplished, Dr. Cohen-Gadol is globally recognized for his expertise, especially with high-risk brain tumor and vascular as well as spine procedures. His work has shaped neurosurgical education and practice internationally.

Ratings vary by platform, but Dr. Cohen-Gadol consistently receives five-star reviews for both patient experience and clinical outcomes. His extensive surgical experience, detailed patient follow-up, and educational content also set him apart from others in the field.

UCLA Health is frequently ranked #1 in California for neurology and neurosurgery, and Keck Medicine of USC and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center also perform at an elite level.

Phone: Call [323-442-0283] to speak with our patient coordinator.

Online Booking: Visit https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/en/second-opinion to schedule your appointment.

Urgent Consultations Available: For complex or time-sensitive cases, expedited evaluation may be arranged within 24–48 hours.

Your brain and spine health deserve world-class care. Let’s begin your path to healing with confidence.