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Joon Yung Lee

Joon Yung Lee, MD

Spine Surgery

Accepting New Patients
Online Booking
4.8 of 5 stars456 ratings, 106 reviews
Need help scheduling? Call 412-687-3900

Highlights

Age Groups Seen

  • Adult
  • Older Adult

Languages

  • English
  • Korean

Gender

Male

About 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

  1. UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
    • 3471 5th Avenue, Suite 1010, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
    • UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
      • 1300 Oxford Drive, Suite 1200, Bethel Park, PA 15102
      • UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
        • 600 Oxford Drive, Suite 200, Monroeville, PA 15146

        Expertise

        Education

        Thomas Jefferson University Medical College

        Fellowship

        University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

        Residency

        Yale University School Of Medicine

        Medical Education

        Board Certifications

        Orthopaedic Surgery

        American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

        Insurance

        Please call the physician's office to verify insurance coverage.
        Search plans
        • 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 reviews

        The 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.

        Concern the care provider showed for your questions or worries
        Average provider Concern the care provider showed for your questions or worries rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
        Care provider's efforts to include you in the decisions about your care
        Average provider Care provider's efforts to include you in the decisions about your care rating 4.6 out of 5 stars
        Care provider's discussion of any proposed treatment
        Average provider Care provider's discussion of any proposed treatment rating 4.6 out of 5 stars
        Explanations the care provider gave you about your problem or condition
        Average provider Explanations the care provider gave you about your problem or condition rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
        Likelihood of your recommending this care provider to others
        Average provider Likelihood of your recommending this care provider to others rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
        Search reviews
          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/21/2025

          Good

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 3/7/2025

          Dr. Lee is the best & has a great crew too!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/7/2025

          Very happy with dr lee and staff

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/7/2025

          Very good experience. Was impressed how easy dr lee explained my condition.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/3/2025

          Dr Lee and I were on the same page. I was very impressed!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/17/2025

          The surgeon and resident present were more than kind and patient.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 2/10/2025

          Excellent experience with both Resident and doctor

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/10/2025

          Very professional

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/7/2025

          Dr. Lee is fabulous in all faucets of spine & related!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 1/24/2025

          I will definitely refer Dr. Lee to friends and family!

          4 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 1/10/2025

          Dr. Lee was great.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/10/2025

          Dr. Joon Lee is amazing.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/3/2025

          Both Doctor Lee and Doctor Edward were great! They answered all my questions and concerns.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/16/2024

          I recommend this group all the time!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/9/2024

          Dr Lee is efficient but extremely willing to listen to, and answer, all my questions.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 11/18/2024

          I already have sent several patients to Dr. Lee

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 10/18/2024

          Dr. Lee has always been most attentive during the entire visit and very thorough.

          2 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 9/23/2024

          Dr. LEE and his med. Students were excellent. Listened well and very patient

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/13/2024

          Good experience and explanation of surgical procedures!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/13/2024

          I was very impressed with Dr. Lee.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/13/2024

          Dr Lee was very informative about my condition.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/26/2024

          Dr Lee and his staff are top notch in my book.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/23/2024

          Good visit

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/23/2024

          I feel both fortunate and blessed having Dr. Lee take care of my medical issues.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/9/2024

          So grateful, my friend referred me to this facility.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/5/2024

          Totally will recommend Dr Lee

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/12/2024

          Dr Lee is a gem!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 6/28/2024

          It was reassuring and refreshing to be genuinely heard and not felt rushed

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 5/31/2024

          The doctor was very honest with me. I appreciated that and gave me several options.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 5/24/2024

          Dr. Lee was EXCELLENT!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/17/2024

          I have recommended Dr. Joon Lee to several people, he is amazing!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/13/2024

          Dr. Lee is outstanding

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/13/2024

          All excellent

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/3/2024

          Very good

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 4/26/2024

          Straight forward and to the point.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 4/19/2024

          Dr. Lee was really incredible in every way, it meant a lot to have his diagnosis!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/25/2024

          Dr.Lee is very assertive. Answered all questions

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 3/4/2024

          Good

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 2/9/2024

          All good. Very impressed with Dr Lee

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 1/26/2024

          Dr. Lee and his team are top notch!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 1/12/2024

          Very good

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/5/2024

          Love the staff and other providers

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 12/18/2023

          Every team member was friendly, professional, clear, thorough, and sensitive to my concerns and needs.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/15/2023

          She suggested steroid injections, which I wish I knew was an option two years ago.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 12/4/2023

          Have recommended to others

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 12/4/2023

          Dr. Joon Yung Lee is the best! I've already referred numerous people to him.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/27/2023

          Dr Lee is the best in his area of expertise

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 10/30/2023

          Dr. Lee was straight forward and honest. I like that approach.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/13/2023

          Dr. Leei is fabulous!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/25/2023

          Sent my son and sister to Dr. Lee

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/22/2023

          Dr Lee and Amanda Britton are the epitome of what any patient should get.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/22/2023

          Always does a great job

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/11/2023

          Dr Lee is top notch

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/11/2023

          He was excellent. I'd give him a 100 percent. He was wonderful.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/21/2023

          Everyone was kind and caring.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 8/14/2023

          At this point I definitely would recommend.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 7/31/2023

          Very good - listened to issue and working toward solution

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/28/2023

          Dr Lee is excellent recommend him to anybody that needs him

          4 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 7/7/2023

          Excellent

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 6/16/2023

          Dr Lee is excellent! Great communication and thoroughly explains my situation. Highly recommend!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 6/1/2023

          Dr. Lee came highly recommended to me, and I would make that same recommendation to others.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 5/8/2023

          Attentive to my needs and health

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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 stars
          Reviewed on 5/5/2023

          D. Lee is absolutely wonderful and caring .

          2 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 4/28/2023

          I expected to be seen in a timely manner and I felt I was not

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 4/24/2023

          I really like Dr. Lee

          1 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed 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.