
Joon Yung Lee, MD
Spine Surgery
Highlights
Age Groups Seen
- Adult
- Older Adult
Languages
- English
- Korean
In-Network Plans
View All Accepted Plans (25)Gender
MaleAbout Joon Yung Lee
Joon Yung Lee, MD, specializes in cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine surgery. Dr. Lee graduated summa cum laude from University of California, Berkeley, and obtained his medical degree from Yale Medical School. He completed his residency in orthopaedic surgery at UPMC and his fellowship in spine surgery at the Rothman Institute-Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. Dr. Lee performs spinal surgery using standard techniques and cutting-edge surgical technologies including minimally invasive spine surgery, disc replacement, and microsurgical decompression.
Dr. Lee has been involved in research at the National Institutes of Health, Yale Medical School Research Laboratories, and the Orthopaedic Research Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh. He has authored numerous articles and lectured on topics such as cervical disc herniation, cervical myelopathy, cervical disc replacement, lumbar disc herniation, lumbar spinal stenosis, lumbar disc replacement, spinal fusion, spine trauma, microsurgical decompression, and non- fusion technologies. He has won numerous research and clinical awards, including "Best Doctors" by Best Doctors Inc. in Pittsburgh Magazine three years in a row.
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Provider Type
Physician
Locations
- UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
- 3471 5th Avenue, Suite 1010, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- phone: 412-687-3900
- UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
- 1300 Oxford Drive, Suite 1200, Bethel Park, PA 15102
- phone: 412-687-3900
- UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
- 600 Oxford Drive, Suite 200, Monroeville, PA 15146
- phone: 412-858-0380
Expertise
Education
Thomas Jefferson University Medical College
FellowshipUniversity of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
ResidencyYale University School Of Medicine
Medical EducationBoard Certifications
Orthopaedic Surgery
American Board of Orthopaedic SurgeryInsurance
- UPMC for Life
- UPMC for You
- UPMC Health Plan
- Aetna
- Aetna CHIP
- Amerihealth Caritas
- Caresource
- Cigna
- Gateway
- Health America
- Health America / Advantra
- Highmark
- Humana
- Independent Health
- Medical Mutual of OH
- Medicare
- Non-PA Medical Assistance
- PA Health And Wellness
- PA Medical Assitance
- Palmetto
- The Health Plan
- Tricare
- Unison
- United Healthcare
- Veterans Choice
Ratings & Reviews
4.8 out of 5
456 ratings, 106 reviewsThe Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/21/2025
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/10/2025
Dr Lee saved me from a life of paralysis and misery. I am forever grateful that God led me to this most expert surgeon.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/7/2025
Dr. Lee is the best & has a great crew too!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/7/2025
Very happy with dr lee and staff
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/7/2025
Very good experience. Was impressed how easy dr lee explained my condition.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/3/2025
Dr Lee and I were on the same page. I was very impressed!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/17/2025
The surgeon and resident present were more than kind and patient.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/10/2025
Dr. Lee took time to listen to my concerns, answer my questions, and explain my condition. I appreciate his concern, encouragement, and honesty. He was highly recommended to me and he lived up to his reputation.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/10/2025
Excellent experience with both Resident and doctor
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/10/2025
Very professional
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/7/2025
Dr. Lee is fabulous in all faucets of spine & related!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/7/2025
I couldn't have been more pleased with the care I received from Dr. Lee and his staff.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/24/2025
I will definitely refer Dr. Lee to friends and family!
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/24/2025
The PA was good. Dr. Lee was great! He is always concerned and let's me participate in my care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/10/2025
Dr. Lee was great.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/10/2025
Dr. Joon Lee is amazing.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/3/2025
Both Doctor Lee and Doctor Edward were great! They answered all my questions and concerns.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/16/2024
I recommend this group all the time!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/9/2024
Dr Lee is efficient but extremely willing to listen to, and answer, all my questions.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/6/2024
Delighted with expected Dr./PA attention delivered. First Dr./PA(don't remember his name) was excellent. Dr. Joon Lee is the kind of Doctor people will/would wait for, no matter how long it takes to set an appointment for.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/18/2024
I already have sent several patients to Dr. Lee
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/18/2024
I had a wonderful visit with Dr. Lee. He covered all of my concerns, and I left feeling my Issues were in good hands.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/8/2024
Dr spent time reviewing my condition explaining my situation. Never rushed and very pleased with his attention.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/18/2024
Dr. Lee has always been most attentive during the entire visit and very thorough.
- 2 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/23/2024
Dr. Lee did not let me express the treatment options that I really wanted to have and instead just automatically put me on a treatment plan that I was hesitant to go on because I was on the same treatment plan in the past through a different provider and it was unsuccessful.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/23/2024
Dr. LEE and his med. Students were excellent. Listened well and very patient
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/13/2024
Good experience and explanation of surgical procedures!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/13/2024
I was very impressed with Dr. Lee.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/13/2024
Dr Lee was very informative about my condition.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/26/2024
Dr Lee and his staff are top notch in my book.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/23/2024
Good visit
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/23/2024
I feel both fortunate and blessed having Dr. Lee take care of my medical issues.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/9/2024
So grateful, my friend referred me to this facility.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/5/2024
Totally will recommend Dr Lee
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/12/2024
Dr Lee is a gem!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/5/2024
Dr Lee has been my spine surgeon for two surgeries. I trust him with my life. Literally.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/28/2024
It was reassuring and refreshing to be genuinely heard and not felt rushed
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/24/2024
I couldn't have asked for a better doctor than Dr. Lee. He was extremely informative, and he helped me tremendously! I still have pain, but nothing like before! I am extremely grateful for this man, and how much he helped me. I would recommend him to anyone. He is the best of the best!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/31/2024
The doctor was very honest with me. I appreciated that and gave me several options.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/31/2024
Dr. Lee is an amazing surgeon and a great human being. He takes his time, he listens and explains medical topics in a way I could understand. His actions demonstrate his care for his patient.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/24/2024
Dr. Lee was EXCELLENT!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/17/2024
I have recommended Dr. Joon Lee to several people, he is amazing!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/13/2024
Dr. Lee is outstanding
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/13/2024
All excellent
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/3/2024
Very good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/26/2024
Straight forward and to the point.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/19/2024
Dr. Lee was really incredible in every way, it meant a lot to have his diagnosis!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/25/2024
Dr.Lee is very assertive. Answered all questions
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/18/2024
Both Physicians were great! They both went over in detail what my injury is, and how we will fix it. They were very caring, and considerate throughout.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/15/2024
I was very impressed with Dr. Joon Lee and Jasmine. They were more than thorough. I highly recommend them.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/8/2024
Dr. Mike and Dr.Lee were just far, far beyond my expectations! They explained and pointed out the areas on my xrays they were speaking of. They covered my options and made me feel very comfortable and encouraged any questions in making a decision.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/4/2024
Dr Lee is an excellent Dr. This is the first time we have had any problems and we understand he is a busy man.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/4/2024
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/1/2024
From the time I first met Dr. Lee, through all the preparation, the surgery, and all the follow-up meetings. I have no complaints. Would I recommend Dr. Lee? Absolutely! Although I hope I never have to.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/26/2024
Dr. Lee is great! Not only did the he did surgery fix my back completely, Dr. Lee Always comes across as genuinely interested in how I'm doing and my welfare.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/26/2024
I would recommend Dr. Lee to anyone that needs and wants to have surgery. I am not yet ready to take that big step and left feeling, the n call me when your ready and dismissed.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/9/2024
All good. Very impressed with Dr Lee
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/29/2024
Dr Lee explained what needed to be done,was very encouraging and since he did surgery on me in the past, I have total confidence in him
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/29/2024
Dr. Lee operated on my back 2 years ago. Prior to surgery I was in constant pain for 4-5 years and could barely walk. Today I travel, play golf and am pain free. My quality of life is superior thanks to Dr. Lee.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/26/2024
Dr. Lee and his team are top notch!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/22/2024
Dr. Lee is one of the most caring, compassionate, easy to talk to, explains thing in easy to understand words...a real professional. My favorite Dr. Treats you as a friend....a caring friend.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/12/2024
So glad I went back to Dr.Lee. I saw him years ago & he said then Id be back.He is very thorough,kind & has a great sense of humor.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/12/2024
Very good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/5/2024
Love the staff and other providers
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/5/2024
Dr. Lee is the consummate medical professional. He is confident, assured, knowledgeable and down to earth. I trust him to come to the best surgical plan, based on the diagnostic tools that he uses.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/18/2023
Every team member was friendly, professional, clear, thorough, and sensitive to my concerns and needs.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/15/2023
She suggested steroid injections, which I wish I knew was an option two years ago.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/4/2023
Would highly recommend this practice Dr. Y Lee excellent in his manner of care towards his patients and explains to you in details. Love this practice
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/4/2023
Have recommended to others
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/4/2023
Dr. Lee was very knowledgeable and very nice. He explained things well and answered all my questions.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/4/2023
Dr. Lee took the time to listen to my concerns, explain all of the imaging I brought with me and discuss my options of treatment. He was honest and pleasant. As was Dr. J
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/4/2023
Dr. Joon Yung Lee is the best! I've already referred numerous people to him.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/27/2023
Dr Lee is the best in his area of expertise
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/17/2023
Dr. Lee explained both procedures which I could have, and explained reasons why I should do the less evasive first.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/30/2023
Dr. Lee was straight forward and honest. I like that approach.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/13/2023
Dr. Leei is fabulous!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/25/2023
Sent my son and sister to Dr. Lee
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/22/2023
Dr Lee and Amanda Britton are the epitome of what any patient should get.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/22/2023
Always does a great job
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/11/2023
Dr Lee is top notch
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/11/2023
He was excellent. I'd give him a 100 percent. He was wonderful.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/21/2023
Everyone was kind and caring.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/21/2023
Dr. Lee is excellent, and I would recommend him to others without reservation.This survey, however, should be revised/edited to include NOT APPLICABLE ( N/A ) as a response.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/14/2023
At this point I definitely would recommend.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/4/2023
I had my c-spine fused 2 yrs ago by Dr. Lee..this was a follow up. There is NO spine surgeon like Dr. Lee!!!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/31/2023
Very good - listened to issue and working toward solution
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/28/2023
Dr Lee is excellent recommend him to anybody that needs him
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/27/2023
I really like Dr Lee. Plus he has a new person with him Dr c it was also very amazing care physician when I met at the office
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/24/2023
Dr Joon Lee and associates clearly identified and determined the course of action to be taken in the future with my medical condition. I was recommended to Dr Lee by another UPMC Physician and several of his patients and thankful for taking their advice.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/21/2023
Dr Lee told me exactly what my issues are. I was upset and very disappointed with my diagnosis
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/10/2023
Not cool that we sat for such a long time so early in the day. Not cool that when we are finally seen it was by a resident and then it took another 20 minutes to see the physician
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/7/2023
Dr lee and his staff are wonderful.Dr Lee is one of the best doctors ever.Hes incredible
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/7/2023
I am very happy and feal very Lucky to have had Dr. Lee operate on me. His whole office is always willing to help when they can. Heather is always very knowledgeable and helpful, a true asset.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/7/2023
Excellent
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/30/2023
Both himself and his intern took great lengths to fully listen to my problems. I was very impressed by their concern and the lengths to which they went to listen to me.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/16/2023
Dr Lee is excellent! Great communication and thoroughly explains my situation. Highly recommend!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/2/2023
Saw Dr Lee for a postop follow up appointment from Spine surgery, and he always takes time to listen & answer questions or discuss any concerns.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/1/2023
Dr. Lee came highly recommended to me, and I would make that same recommendation to others.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/15/2023
I always recommend Dr. Lee
- No RatingReviewed on 5/8/2023
I had to wait 45 minutes after the X-rays were reviewed before Dr lee appeared
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/8/2023
Attentive to my needs and health
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/8/2023
Always tell friends about Dr. Lee. He will give you all the time you need, answer any questions and tells you exactly what to expect. He did my neck surgery and he is respected by me andy family. He was sure to visit with my parents after my surgery to inform them of the outcome and prognosis. Good Man!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/5/2023
D. Lee is absolutely wonderful and caring .
- 2 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/28/2023
I expected to be seen in a timely manner and I felt I was not
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/24/2023
I really like Dr. Lee
- 1 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/21/2023
I was referred to you from 2 other physicians, they were hoping to have his opinion on the issues but he didn't seem to care. Only looked at his xray taken that day. Referred me to someone else not a consult to my doctors
- No RatingReviewed on 4/7/2023
The only thing Dr Lee gave me was a referral and sent me on my way.