Is Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe the Top Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles?
When you’re dealing with spine issues that require surgery, finding the top spine surgeon in Los Angeles is essential. Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe, a Harvard-trained, board-certified neurosurgeon, is widely regarded as one of the top experts in spinal surgery. She specializes in minimally invasive techniques and complex spine care, making her an excellent choice for anyone seeking the best spine surgeon in Southern California.
5 Reasons Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe is the Top Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles
1. Harvard-Trained Expertise
Dr. Ranasinghe completed her neurosurgical residency at the prestigious Harvard Medical School, one of the most esteemed institutions in the world. This level of training equips her with the knowledge and skills needed to perform even the most complex spinal procedures, making her one of the top spine surgeons in Los Angeles.
2. Advanced Fellowship in Complex Spine Surgery
After her residency, Dr. Ranasinghe undertook an advanced fellowship that focused on complex spinal reconstruction, minimally invasive techniques, and revision spine surgeries. This advanced training is essential for mastering intricate spinal procedures, setting her apart as one of the best spine surgeons in Southern California.
3. Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained (FAANS)
Board-certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and a Fellow of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (FAANS), Dr. Ranasinghe holds prestigious credentials that affirm her expertise and solidify her place as one of the top spine surgeons in Los Angeles.
4. Multiple Years of Top Doctor Recognition
Dr. Ranasinghe has been recognized as a Top Doctor for multiple consecutive years, reflecting her outstanding patient outcomes and recognition from peers in the medical community. This accolade speaks volumes about her dedication to providing exceptional care.
5. Outstanding Patient Reviews
Dr. Ranasinghe consistently receives high praise from her patients for her surgical skill, compassionate care, and ability to effectively communicate treatment options. Her patients often refer to her as the best spine surgeon in Los Angeles.
What Patients Are Saying About Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe
“An Exceptional Surgeon Who Cares!”
“Dr. Ranasinghe’s expertise and compassion have truly transformed my life. She took the time to explain my condition, and I feel so much better after my surgery. I am forever grateful to have found one of the best spine surgeons in Los Angeles!”
“The Best Decision I Made for My Spine”
“I had been to several doctors for my back pain before seeing Dr. Ranasinghe. She was the first to accurately diagnose my issue and offer a clear treatment plan. I highly recommend her as the best spine surgeon in Los Angeles!”
“Remarkable Recovery Thanks to Dr. Ranasinghe”
“I traveled to Los Angeles from out of state for my spinal surgery with Dr. Ranasinghe, and it was worth every mile. Her professionalism, skill, and care have been outstanding. I’m finally pain-free!”
“Compassionate and Skillful”
“Dr. Ranasinghe not only has incredible surgical skills but also a warm, compassionate approach. She always listened to my concerns and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire process.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Spine Surgery in Los Angeles
1. How do I know if I need spine surgery?
Spine surgery may be recommended if you have chronic pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or injections. If your condition is affecting your quality of life or is worsening, a spine surgeon like Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe can help determine the best course of action.
2. What are the benefits of minimally invasive spine surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery offers several benefits, including smaller incisions, less muscle disruption, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. Dr. Ranasinghe specializes in these techniques, which help improve patient outcomes.
3. Will I need to stay in the hospital after spine surgery?
The length of your hospital stay depends on the type of surgery performed. Minimally invasive procedures typically require shorter stays, while more complex surgeries may require a longer recovery period in the hospital. Dr. Ranasinghe will provide a clear plan for your recovery before and after surgery.
4. How long does it take to recover from spine surgery?
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure and individual patient factors. Most minimally invasive spine surgeries allow patients to return to normal activities within a few weeks, while more complex procedures may take a few months for full recovery. Dr. Ranasinghe will provide a personalized recovery plan to ensure the best outcomes.
5. How do I choose the best spine surgeon in Los Angeles?
When selecting a spine surgeon, it’s crucial to look for someone who is board-certified, has advanced fellowship training in spine surgery, and has a track record of successful outcomes. Dr. Ranasinghe’s Harvard training, fellowship expertise, and outstanding patient reviews make her one of the top spine surgeons in Los Angeles.
6. What conditions does Dr. Ranasinghe treat?
Dr. Ranasinghe treats a wide range of spinal conditions, including neck pain, back pain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and complex conditions like spinal cord compression. She is highly skilled in both conservative and surgical treatment options.
7. Is it possible to get a second opinion for spine surgery?
Yes, seeking a second opinion is highly encouraged and can provide additional clarity. Dr. Ranasinghe welcomes second opinions and believes that informed patients make the best decisions for their health.
8. Does Dr. Ranasinghe offer virtual consultations?
Yes, Dr. Ranasinghe offers virtual consultations to ensure that patients can receive expert care and advice from the comfort of their homes. Virtual consultations are a convenient option, especially for those who may be traveling from outside of Los Angeles.
9. What should I expect during a spine surgery consultation with Dr. Ranasinghe?
During your consultation, Dr. Ranasinghe will take the time to understand your medical history, perform a thorough evaluation, and discuss your treatment options. She will work with you to develop a personalized care plan that meets your needs and goals.
11 Things to Consider When Searching for the Best Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles for You
1. Has the spine surgeon finished residency training and are they board-certified?
The spine surgeon you choose must have completed residency training in neurosurgery or orthopedic surgery. A physician who is board-certified in pain management or anesthesiology may be qualified to perform injections, but to perform spinal surgery, they must have completed neurosurgery or orthopedic surgery residency.
Dr. Ranasinghe completed her neurosurgical residency at Harvard Medical School and is board-certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery, confirming her qualifications as one of the best spine surgeons in Los Angeles.
2. Has the spine surgeon undergone advanced spine surgery training via fellowship?
Ideally, the spine surgeon you choose will have received training beyond residency. This advanced training comes through fellowship programs that provide specialized instruction in complex spinal reconstruction, minimally invasive techniques, and management of challenging cases.
Dr. Ranasinghe completed fellowship training in complex spine surgery, ensuring she possesses expertise beyond standard residency education and establishing her among the best spine surgeons in Los Angeles.
3. Should you be treated by an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon?
Both orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons can perform spinal surgery, but there are important differences in their training. Neurosurgical residency focuses on disorders of the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, providing comprehensive training in neurological anatomy and function.
Orthopedic surgery residency focuses on musculoskeletal disorders including bones, joints, and muscles. For complex spinal cord issues, cervical myelopathy, spinal tumors, or conditions involving neurological compression, a neurosurgeon may be the optimal choice.
Dr. Ranasinghe is a board-certified neurosurgeon with specialized expertise in complex spine conditions, making her ideally qualified as one of the best spine surgeons in Los Angeles for conditions involving neurological complications.
4. How often does your surgeon perform the operation they’re recommending?
Ask about surgical volume and the surgeon’s specific experience with your procedure. Surgeons who perform high volumes of specific operations typically have better outcomes due to refined techniques and accumulated expertise.
Also inquire about alternative surgical options such as minimally invasive approaches or motion-preserving techniques and their relative advantages and disadvantages. Most spinal problems can be effectively treated without surgery, and except in rare circumstances, surgery should not be the first option.
If your surgeon has not considered non-surgical options or has not discussed alternative surgical methods, consider getting a second opinion from the best spine surgeon in Los Angeles to explore all options.
5. Where will the surgery be performed? Is it a high-volume spine center?
Ask if your surgeon operates at well-recognized medical facilities with dedicated spine programs. Having surgery at centers where high volumes of spine surgery are performed may mean more advanced facilities, specialized equipment, and systems in place to reduce complications.
Dr. Ranasinghe performs procedures at premier Los Angeles area hospitals with state-of-the-art surgical facilities and comprehensive post-operative care capabilities, ensuring patients receive care worthy of the best spine surgeon in Los Angeles.
6. Does your spine surgeon support your decision to get a second opinion?
It is never a bad idea to seek a second opinion before committing to spine surgery. It is a significant red flag if the spine surgeon you are considering takes offense to your desire for additional perspectives.
At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, we routinely see patients seeking second (or third) opinions before committing to surgery, and we encourage this practice. There is rarely anything to lose by getting a second opinion and much to gain. The best spine surgeon in Los Angeles should support your right to make fully informed decisions.
7. Does your Los Angeles spine surgeon have a good bedside manner?
Recovering from spine surgery is challenging, making it crucial to find a surgeon with excellent bedside manner who answers questions throughout your recovery, even when inconvenient.
The best spine surgeon in Los Angeles understands that clear communication and emotional support are vital for successful recovery. A surgeon who listens and responds to concerns helps you feel comfortable and confident, reducing anxiety and promoting better outcomes. Dr. Ranasinghe is known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach that puts patients at ease while providing expert surgical care.
8. Does your spine surgeon have strong online reviews?
Reviews provide valuable insight into what it’s like to work with a particular surgeon. We encourage you to read what our patients say about Dr. Ranasinghe on Google, Healthgrades, and other review platforms.
Consistently positive reviews across multiple platforms indicate high patient satisfaction and quality care. While no surgeon will have universally perfect reviews, patterns of positive feedback confirm excellence. Dr. Ranasinghe’s exceptional reviews reflect her standing among the best spine surgeons in Los Angeles.
9. How accessible is the surgeon for follow-up care?
Surgery is only the beginning of recovery. Complications or questions often arise post-operatively, and having a surgeon available for follow-ups ensures issues are addressed promptly.
The best spine surgeons in Los Angeles excel not only in the operating room but also prioritize long-term patient care, providing reassurance and timely intervention during recovery. Accessible care significantly impacts outcomes and reduces complication risks. Dr. Ranasinghe and her team remain available throughout your recovery journey.
10. Does the surgeon stay updated with new research and techniques?
Advances in spinal care including minimally invasive techniques, new surgical tools, and enhanced recovery protocols constantly evolve. A surgeon who actively pursues ongoing education is more likely to offer the latest and most effective treatment options.
This commitment to staying current reflects dedication to patient outcomes and makes a significant difference. The best spine surgeon in Los Angeles continuously updates knowledge and skills to provide patients with cutting-edge care based on the latest evidence and innovations.
11. Does the surgeon encourage minimally invasive procedures when appropriate?
Choosing a surgeon who prioritizes minimally invasive techniques when appropriate can significantly impact recovery and outcomes. These advanced methods offer numerous benefits over traditional open surgery including reduced pain, smaller incisions, and shorter recovery times.
Minimally invasive techniques minimize disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues, lowering complication risks and leading to better long-term results. The best spine surgeon in Los Angeles evaluates your condition and recommends the least invasive option that effectively addresses your problem while preserving spinal function.
Dr. Ranasinghe has extensive expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery and utilizes these advanced techniques whenever appropriate to optimize patient outcomes and recovery.
Spine Conditions Treated by Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe
Dr. Ranasinghe offers comprehensive care for a wide variety of spine conditions, including:
Common Spine Conditions
- Back Pain
- Foot Pain Due to Spine Problems
- Neck Pain
- Scoliosis
- Spinal Arthritis
Complex Spine Conditions
- Spinal ArterioVenous Malformation (AVM)
- Spinal Cord Compression
- Spondylosis & Spondylolisthesis
Contact Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe Today
If you’re looking for the top spine surgeon in Los Angeles, Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe is here to help. With office in Los Angeles, she offers expert care in a convenient location. Whether you’re considering surgery or need a second opinion, Dr. Ranasinghe is available for consultations, including virtual options.

