Patient Testimonials

Dr Lebl saved my life, after 3 months of treatment at another “orthopedic practice”, Dr Lebl canceled my surgery as I was being wheeled into the OR; I am sure HSS hospital incurred a real capital loss to terminate my planned surgery 5 minutes before it was to due to start but Dr Lebl wanted to confirm inconsistencies between my multiple MRIs; thank God he did as it turned out I had spinal cord compression that was causing arthritis in my fingers, carpal tunnel in my left wrist, weakness in my toes all of which improved the moment I woke up from surgery; in-spite of the surgical pain I woke up feeling 20 years younger; Dr Lebl saved my life and made the right decision for me as a patient irrespective of the cost to the hospital. I am forever grateful to this man and I will be donating to HSS every year solely because of Dr Lebl! Words cannot describe what I have gained by seeing Dr Lebl. Forever in your debt Dr Lebl.

Don't know where to begin about my experience with Dr Lebl and his staff. First of all, Dr Lebl is an incredible surgeon and is truly dedicated to the safety and well being of his patients. He explains every detail about your condition, offers options, and involves you in your plan of care. He take his time with you and answers all questions and concerns. My surgery was a complete success and I'm thankful that I selected him as my surgeon. As far as his staff, it's so rare to find a staff that is so nice to deal with and always go above and beyond to help you through the entire process. It's been a pleasant experience from the first time I contacted the office. The entire staff goes out of their way to help you and are happy to do it, which is rare these days. His clinical staff is amazing as well. Thank you for taking such great care of me! This is the place to go for any kind of spinal surgery.

Dr. Lebl is the absolute best spine doctor around! I found him because I was looking for minimally invasive surgery. I consulted with three other spinal doctors before having my surgery with Dr. Lebl. He was the only one that spent time with me to make sure he understood my pain and concerns. He answered all of my questions and I never felt rushed. Immediately when I woke up from my surgery the nerve pain into my legs was gone. Dr. Lebl is a simply miracle worker. Magda and Ann Marie in his office were always helpful when answering my calls and helping to put me in touch with Dr. Lebl. I am so blessed to have found him and his wonderful team! THANK YOU DR. LEBL AND HSS!

Simply the best, Knowledge, Expertise and positivity, Bedside manner. BRAVO to Dr Lebl and his team.

I had an amazing experience with Dr Lebl. I had been putting off back surgery for several months, trying everything that might help my horrible, unbearable back pain including PT, epidural, pain medication, acupuncture, and special massage. I finally gave up and had Dr. Lebl perform his magic. The pain simply disappeared immediately after surgery. It is now three weeks and I am running around do everything. I am so grateful. I have my life back.

Fom my first contact, Dr Lebl impressed me as an ideal professional - knowledgeable, skillful, careful, patient and thorough in explaining my condition, my options and possible alleviations, and the risks and benefits of each. After I elected surgery, he - and his immediate office staff and then his surgical team - continued to reinforce my initial impressions, from surgery through aftercare. And I believe I had an ideal result from the surgery. I recommend him without reservation!

Other doctors failed to mention the overall condition of my vertebral discs (which were younger than my age), despite the sequestered herniated fragment which was wrecking havoc on my life. Until my meeting with Dr. Lebl, I felt doomed to a life degenerative spinal breakdown. Dr. Lebl gave me hope, as he carefully took me through all of my imaging scans and laid out how surgery could help. Dr. Lebl removed the monster from my back and I am doing great. Dr. Lebl gave me back my life.

While I could not stand or walk without pain prior to my surgery, my ultimate goal was not just to be pain free but, being a tennis player, to get back on the courts. So after "graduating" from physical therapy and continuing to do 15 minutes of stretching each morning, I started hitting with a pro, and using the ball machine, 6 months after dual fusion surgery. In addition to no pain standing/walking for hours, I'm back playing competitively without pain. Thank you Dr. Lebl.

Dr Darren Lebl is a great blessing that I am endlessly thankful for. For Dr Lebl’s surgical expertise, for his diagnostic precision, and for his compassionate care, I am ever grateful! He explains your conditions and the options and goals of each step of the surgical procedure in full clarity. Detailing the necessary procedures to regain functionality. Using your MRIS and radiological images to illustrate a thorough understanding of treatment and healing pre surgery through post recovery!

ble removed a larger than normal synovial cyst. He and his staff were all very pleasant and extremely efficient. I have no hesitation in recommending him or HSS.

After an emergency disc rupture, Dr Lebl gracefully found a way to get me on the surgical schedule as an emergency add-on procedure. He had me out of the OR by the evening. I was then out of the hospital in about two days, and after almost a year I've seen a full recovery. If it weren't for Dr. Lebl, and if I didn't have a skilled surgeon familiar with my condition willing to operate on me in less than 24 hours, I probably wouldn't be walking normally today and my life would never be the same.

Have not had a proced. yet, consid. pros & cons. I am compelled to describe the visit. Thorough paper questionaire 25 + page to depict history. mri, cat scan, and x ray. all 3 before he saw me. Precision coord. by staff. email of itinerary before arrival. Personal exam by Dr Lebl. Shared he needs to review imaging results in detail & compare against exam. 20 min later, 1st recorded diag. Then, in detail shared whats wrong & can fix. Only dr. ever to diag. me. Recomm. highly. Trust him completely

So I had my surgery and it was a success!!!! I couldn't be any happier!!! I got immediate relief after surgery!! I took 6 weeks off and back to work i am and i'm doing well... i was in pain for like 2 days, then after that i just kept putting ice on my incision and it helped it heal quicker. My incision is small, cant barley see it... I am grateful to Dr.Lebl! He literally changed my life around, now i can drive pain free, do activities with my kids, and most important NO MORE PAIN!!!!

Dr Lebl is a very talented surgeon who also is extremely warm and compassionate. I previously saw two other spine surgeons but after meeting Dr Lebl my wife and I decided that he was the one we wanted to use. He decided to do a microdiscectomy, laminotomy and decompression as opposed to a fusion and the results have been miraculous. No more sciatic pain! He and his wonderful staff have literally been life savers.

Dr. Lebl performed a very complex spinal surgery on me. He is a very skilled & talented surgeon who is also compassionate & caring. There is no one I would have trusted more to do this surgery than him.He spends the time to review, understand your situation & explain the procedure thoroughly. He truly cares about his patients. His office is like a well oiled wheel: every detail handled-every call returned. I only have the highest regard for Dr. Lebl & his amazing team and highly recommend them!

After a year and a half of having epidurals by a pain management doctor, I finally decided to have surgery and was very fortunate to find Dr. Lebl who performed a laminectomy on me 2 months ago. I am now pain free and had a very good experience with him and his office staff!

Dr. Lebl performed complex spinal surgery on my lumbar spine, in January, 2016. I can't say enough about Dr. Lebl. He is a tremendously gifted surgeon, who truly cares about his patients. He personally came to see me each of the 7 days that I was in the hospital, he always spent all of the time that I needed when I saw him in the hospital or his office, and thoroughly explained the surgical procedure and my expected result and recovery, to both my Husband and me. I have recommended him to others already, and a dear friend's husband is scheduled for surgery with Dr. Lebl in October. I will continue to see Dr. Lebl for any back problems I experience in the future, regardless of where I may be living. I don't think you could find a better or more caring spine surgeon anywhere!! Thank you so very much Dr. Lebl!

I have been in debilitating pain for many years with lower back pain radiating down my both legs. Dr. Lebl performed a spondylolisthesis of Lumbosacral region - my pain level before the surgery was a 10 and now I am almost pain free. The pain from the spinal steno-sis , my disc issues and radiating leg pain was excruciating. I have had two previous surgeries - one to implant a Spinal Cord Stimulator - this gave me minimal relief at best. Dr. Lebl had to remove all the hardware that was in my back from former surgery that was causing me additional pain. Both procedures could have been avoided had I know of Dr. Lebl. I have a Pace Maker and use a C-Pap machine with oxygen for Sleep Apnea - I have had surgeons refuse to operate on me because of this and my age - 85 years young. From my initial consultation to the followup appointment after surgery - I can't give enough praise for Dr. Lebl, his staff and the HSS. I am in therapy now and the rest is up to me. I "Thank You" Dr. Lebl - you are truly a surgeon with "Gifted Hands".

Dr Lebl fixed a huge problem in my spine. I had surgery in Michigan by a Dr who blew me off after telling me I had a failed back surgery. For 5 years my left leg wasn't able to move, there was not only severe pain but extreme waisting away of the muscles I finally found out why after Dr Lebl reviewed my CT scan. Apparently the Michigan Dr didn't want to tell me the spine screws were too long. And they were lodged into the psoas muscles that support my spine. Dr Lebl said that the screws needed to come out and since he was the only one that told me there was an incomplete fusion, I needed a refusion. Dr Lebl thank you so much for the fine work you did repairing another surgeons mishap. I don't know where I'd be without you. I can now sit without much back pain. One of my reflexes actually came back that was dead for 5 years, and you gave me my life back. I appreciate you so very much. Words cannot describe how fortunate I feel that I came out to see you from Michigan. You are one of a kind.

Dr. Lebl was very attentive and explained the diagnosis very clearly. The results have been excellent!

In making the choice to have spinal fusion surgery, I was worried about the impact the surgery could have on my active lifestyle. I sought a young doctor that specialized in motion/mobility preservation. I found Dr. Lebl in my research, and soon decided he was the right surgeon for me! Dr. Lebl's staff was incredibly supportive throughout the months of preparation and recovery before and after surgery. Dr. Lebl himself made sure to check in on me during my stay in the hospital, and I felt very well looked after by the entire team. Not only was my experience characterized by thorough care by the entire team, but I also recovered quicker than was expected, and I am back to my active lifestyle only 6 months post-op! I highly recommend Dr. Lebl and his team for any spinal surgical needs!

I have severe osteoarthritis in my spine, hips, knees, wrists, elbows and shoulders. I had an accident in 1968 and arthritis has been a constant companion. Over the last three years, having had a failed spine surgery in 2010 and a total hip revision in 2011 my posture was me looking strait at the ground. my spine had bent to forty percent. I was aided by a cane, couldn't walk more than a couple of hundred feet. I had what was called a failed back. Severe kyphosis, stenosis. osteophites, compressed disks, and broken hardware from my last surgery. I began my quest to find the right surgeon. A few months later, I found Dr. Lebl. I had gone to Mass. General, Boston, Mt.Sinia, N.Y., Twin Cities Spine Center, Minn. and Dr. Lebl at The Hospital For Special Surgeries, N.Y.C. Once I met Dr. Lebl , I knew he was the one. His professionalism, patience in explaining the procedure and why I needed this procedure, and risks and outcomes, and most of all his passion. I didn't feel like just another surgery patient. He was interested in fixing ME. I was very relaxed in his care. Dr.Lebl worked on my spine for fourteen hours ,strait. He fused and straitened my spine from thoracic 1 down to sacral 1. Anchoring from the lower pelvis. The whole team in the o.r. were amazing. When I awoke the next day my only worry was that Dr . Lebl didn't get to eat. I saw him that morning and he assured me that he was o.k. My wife and children were in the waiting room till eleven o'clock that night. After the surgery Dr. Lebl came to them to explain everything and sat with them. While I was at Hospital for Special Surgery, Dr. Lebl came by my room every day, never in a rush, always there. I'll never be able to thank Dr. Lebl enough, I just hope he knows how gifted and special a person he is. I will be forever grateful .

I have been to three different surgeons. Dr. Lebl was outstanding. He has great bedside manner. He is professional and well trained. He has improved the quality of my life. Thank you Dr. Lebl

Dr. Lebl was able to fix my cervical spine after many years of severe shooting pains. I saw several doctors and wish I had come to him first. His review of my MRI, CAT scan, and xrays were very thorough and on point. Overall a great experience with Dr. Lebl and his staff. Highly recommend!!!

Dr. Lebl was able to relieve years of pain. Before sugary, I walked bent over, walking on the beach was a definite no, running was a passion which I could not do any more, 19 marathons, wanted to make an even 20. Scheduled an office visit. Dr. Lebl was confident that he could relieve my pain after reviewing all reports and scans…and after a spinal fusion, my pain was gone! My recovery, I feel, was better than I imagined…it has been six months and he gave me the OK to resume everything, even running…Dr. Lebl and HSS did have my back..do not hesitate to schedule an appointment to see what this wonderful Doctor can do for you. Maybe there will be another marathon !!!

I was confined to a wheelchair for six months and after one spinal surgery I'm now walking on my own power with a cane. Thank you dr . lebl your the greatest.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Stars
My husband recently had major back surgery with Dr. Lebl, and we could not be more grateful for the incredible care he received.

From our very first consultation, Dr. Lebl was extremely professional, highly knowledgeable, and deeply compassionate. He took the time to thoroughly educate us on the latest surgical techniques, walking us through exactly what the procedure would entail and making sure all of our questions were answered.

Additionally, his office team at HSS is absolutely amazing. They went above and beyond to help us navigate the paperwork process and were incredibly diligent about following up with both of us during his recovery.

If you are looking for an exceptional spine surgeon and a team that genuinely cares about their patients, we highly recommend Dr. Lebl!

How lucky for me that I found my way to Dr. Lebl, who performed a laminatomy that has eliminated nagging pains in my leg and lower back that really did limit me in some of my favorite activities for years. Dr. Lebl is friendly, eager to be informative, never rushed, and skilled. My recommendation is wholehearted, without caveats. Props too to his excellent office staff (here’s looking at you, Tiffany). A fine team.

Dr. Lebl, the staff, and the folks at HSS were all amazing. Everyone in the office was extremely helpful and supportive, going above and beyond to give me the best experience. The care provided by Dr. Lebel, the staff, and HSS as a whole was top tier. They all made a challenging and painful time as smooth as possible. They are the best team, and I am so happy with everything in the process.

I understand that often times when we are requested to provide a response to an after visit survey or a review of our experience it sometimes feels burdensome. But even so and despite our feelings, this feedback is important to both the practitioner and more importantly those contemplating where to seek services. With that said, I want those reading this to understand what I am stating is fact...at least for me.

My experience at HSS and with Dr. Lebl have been superb. I was referred to Dr. Lebl by my Primary Care Physician. My spinal issues stem from a roof fall over 30 years ago resulting in significant stenosis and narrowing of the spinal column over time culminating with radiculopathy and pain down my arms and into my hands and fingers for the better part of that 30 years. Having had two (2) prior successful total knee replacements at another highly respected and reputable hospital organization, I was initially a bit hesitant about HSS and Dr. Lebl because we had no history together and I did do so well at this other hospital organization. My thought was why not just go there??

Any hesitancy I may have had changed immediately upon placing my first call to HSS and Dr. Lebl's office. Notwithstanding the staff's politeness, courtesy and kindness that's extended as part of their ordinary course of business, Dr. Lebl's staff is patient centered so everyone is working together and from the same information so there's no gaps with anything leading up to seeing or meeting with Dr. Lebl.

There's a reason they call it the Hospital for Special Surgery having been the first orthopedic hospital organized in 1863. They're special in what they do because the doctors there are special in what they do. Dr. Lebl being at the forefront in spinal care.

Dr. Lebl is as compassionate and empathetic a man as he is gifted with his hands. From our first encounter he was kind, considerate and listened to what I had to say. He explained and ordered all of my initial scans at HSS which could not have gone more seamless. The coordination between departments to perform the required testing was amazing, Once performed, Dr. Lebl met with my wife and I where he thoroughly discussed our options. Dr. Lebl never pushed us one way or the other. He provided us a road map and explained in great detail our options and anticipated outcomes. Dr. Lebl was not cocky in his discussions with us, he was confident in his training and skill as a spinal surgeon. That's what we wanted and what we needed. From there my wife and I were able to make our most informed decisions. Once we decided surgery was the best option, Dr. Lebl's staff including his Practice Administrator, Tiffany C., made scheduling everything simple including the pre-op testing, surgery and post-op appointment(s). And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the kindness and great care received by the entire staff at the HSS Main Hospital during our stay.

I am today 2 weeks removed from a cervical fusion anterior discectomy 2 level (C5-C6;C6-C7) with instrumentation. I feel great and have very little pain which is to say I really have no pain other than if I turn my head more than I should. I have wide range of motion from side to side and up and down and other than getting tired rather quickly which is common for a couple of months because of the surgery and the like I feel wonderful. I knew immediately upon awakening from surgery that it was successful as all the prior symptoms in my arms, hands and fingers was gone. I am now released to begin my physical therapy and go back to my general low impact exercise routine. Things are moving forward even better than I had anticipated or expected. We will see Dr. Lebl again in May to be sure we are fusing in the right direction.

I know the decision to have spinal surgery is a difficult one. I also know this is but one review for your consideration but I hope it's helpful in making this most important decision for yourself and your family.

Thank you.

They are the best
The nicest doctors. And the nurses are so nice and help you with everything. They come right to you They don't leave you hanging

Dr. Lebi has been an absolute blessing for my son, who has scoliosis. From the very first visit, we never felt rushed, He took his time, carefully examined my son's back, and explained everything in detail in a way we could truly understand.
As business owner, I've also referred several of my clients to him. Some of them even went through surgery with Dr. Lebi, and every single one of them has been extremely happy with his caring personality and high level of expertise. We are truly grateful for him. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a knowledgeable, compassionate spine specialist.

After having two unsuccessful spinal surgeries elsewhere, Dr Lebl "worked his miracles" and did a totally successful revision surgery for me! I never expected such an outstanding result and am literally thankful to him every day. He and his support team were exceptional and made for a very positive experience. I HIGHLY recommend!

Dr. Lebl and his entire staff was so wonderful. I would highly recommend him to anybody who has a problem with their spine.

I had spinal fusion L4-L5 two years ago. Because of Dr Lebl’s technique, I did not have scare tissue on my muscles, therefore I have zero pain and my back is now. I am 100 percent active now. Highly recommend Dr. Lebl.

Dr. Lebel performed my surgery in September of 2024. The entire process from scheduling my first consultation to my final post-op appointment was well coordinated and comprehensive. Dr. Lebl’s team and HSS are a world-class act. Dr. Lebl and the HSS team are the best because of their expertise, leadership, and compassionate, patient-centered approach. I felt heard, seen, and I appreciated his thoughtful process in finally diagnosing the cause of my chronic back pain. The hospitalist team at HSS also went above and beyond to make sure that my other health conditions did not flare with the stress of the procedure. His PA also discussed pain control options that would work best for me before the procedure started. Thank you Dr. Lebl and HSS for taking such great care to restore my quality of life.

I had spinal surgery on Dec. 15, 2017. I had been in constant pain for many years and decided it was time to do something about it. I saw Dr. Lebl in Nov. 2017 and he agreed with me. I was immediately scheduled for pre-operative testing and surgery. I am very pleased with the outcome of the operation. I was treated very well by everyone at doctor Lebl's office, as well as HSS. My only regret was that I had waited so long to concede to surgery. But, honestly, I wasn't mentally prepared until now. I highly recommend Dr. Lebl as an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon.

Had 2 Level Lumbar Laminectomies with Bi-Lateral foramenotomies after having intense pain and foot weakness. Had to revisit surgery 1 year later because of Dural Fibrosis which was my bodies response. He's kind, caring , knowledgeable and has a great staff. He knows his stuff! Other surgeons wanted to Fuse both levels, 3 years later still good. Yeah some pain but my legs aren't numb or weak anymore. TY DR