Miami stands at the forefront of neurosurgical innovation, hosting some of the most accomplished brain and spine surgeons in the United States. From complex tumor resections and minimally invasive spinal repairs to pediatric neurosurgery and non-invasive radiosurgery, the city offers an extraordinary concentration of medical excellence. Whether you’re seeking a first consultation, a second opinion, or specialized care for a challenging condition, this guide provides an in-depth look at the top neurosurgeons in Miami—their backgrounds, expertise, hospital affiliations, and what sets them apart.
Affiliation: University of Miami Health System / Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Specialty: Brain Tumors, Skull Base Surgery, Neurosurgical Oncology
Dr. Ricardo Komotar is among the most sought-after brain tumor surgeons in the nation. As the Director of the University of Miami Brain Tumor Initiative, he performs thousands of intricate surgeries addressing gliomas, meningiomas, pituitary adenomas, and metastatic brain tumors. His exceptional skill and academic leadership have made him a global authority in neurosurgical oncology.
Dr. Komotar graduated from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and completed a rigorous residency at Columbia University before specializing in brain tumor surgery at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. His extensive research portfolio includes more than 500 peer-reviewed scientific publications, positioning him at the forefront of brain tumor treatment innovation. Patients describe him as calm, meticulous, and empathetic—qualities reflected in his outstanding 4.8/5 patient satisfaction rating.
In addition to leading the residency and neuro-oncology fellowship programs at the University of Miami, Dr. Komotar is deeply involved in advancing awake craniotomy techniques, intraoperative brain mapping, and minimally invasive tumor resections. He is also recognized for his advocacy of patient education, frequently participating in symposiums to raise awareness about brain health.
Appointment: UM Health – Dr. Komotar | 📞 305-243-6946
Affiliation: Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute
Specialty: Meningioma Surgery, Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, Skull Base Surgery
Dr. Michael McDermott is internationally celebrated for his groundbreaking work on meningiomas and skull base tumors. As the Chief Medical Executive of the Miami Neuroscience Institute, he brings over 35 years of surgical and academic excellence to South Florida. Formerly at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Dr. McDermott is one of the most published neurosurgeons in the world and a recognized pioneer in minimally invasive cranial surgery.
His expertise includes Gamma Knife radiosurgery, a non-invasive technique for treating brain tumors, vascular malformations, and functional disorders. Dr. McDermott’s patients benefit from his precision and multidisciplinary care approach, which integrates advanced imaging, targeted radiation, and meticulous surgical planning. His leadership has transformed Baptist Health’s Miami Neuroscience Institute into a center of excellence.
Educated at the University of Toronto and trained at UCSF, Dr. McDermott’s credentials include numerous professional awards and top rankings in international neurosurgery publications. His philosophy of care emphasizes patient collaboration and informed decision-making, ensuring that individuals fully understand their treatment options.
Appointment: Baptist Health – Dr. McDermott | 📞 786-596-3876
Affiliation: University of Miami / Jackson Memorial Hospital
Specialty: Complex Spine Surgery, Spinal Cord & Peripheral Nerve Injury, Minimally Invasive Procedures
As Chair of Neurosurgery at the University of Miami, Dr. Allan Levi leads one of the most advanced neurosurgical programs in the country. With over 30 years of experience, he is internationally recognized for his pioneering work in spinal cord repair, peripheral nerve regeneration, and complex spine reconstruction. Holding both an MD and a PhD in Neurosciences, Dr. Levi combines scientific innovation with surgical mastery.
Dr. Levi’s research collaborations at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis have yielded groundbreaking advances in cell-based therapy for spinal cord injury. His clinical practice focuses on minimally invasive spinal fusion, trauma management, and nerve grafting. Fluent in multiple languages, he provides care to a diverse patient base from across the globe.
Patients commend Dr. Levi’s precision, empathy, and evidence-based approach. His 4.7/5 rating underscores his long-standing reputation for excellence in spinal care. In addition to his surgical duties, Dr. Levi mentors young surgeons, advancing the field through education and research.
Appointment: UM Health – Dr. Levi | 📞 305-243-6946
Affiliation: Nicklaus Children’s Hospital
Specialty: Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hydrocephalus, Pediatric Brain Tumors, Epilepsy Surgery
Dr. John Ragheb is a compassionate leader in pediatric neurosurgery, with over 35 years of experience treating children with complex neurological disorders. As Chief of Surgery at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, he has dedicated his career to saving young lives through advanced surgical innovation and humanitarian outreach.
He specializes in pediatric brain and spinal tumors, hydrocephalus, epilepsy surgery, and congenital abnormalities, and has been instrumental in developing safe, effective techniques for children. Dr. Ragheb completed his medical education at the University of Michigan and his pediatric neurosurgery fellowship at New York University. Dual board-certified in adult and pediatric neurosurgery, he is also a director of the American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery.
Parents consistently praise his kindness and attentiveness. Under his leadership, Nicklaus Children’s has become a hub for cutting-edge pediatric neurosurgery in the southeastern United States. Dr. Ragheb’s international outreach work in Haiti, where he provides free surgeries for children, further reflects his deep humanitarian commitment.
Appointment: Nicklaus Children’s – Dr. Ragheb | 📞 305-662-8386
Affiliation: Miami Neuroscience Center at Larkin Hospital
Specialty: Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, Skull Base Tumors, Trigeminal Neuralgia
Dr. Aizik Wolf is a pioneer in non-invasive brain treatments and one of the world’s most experienced Gamma Knife surgeons. He introduced the Gamma Knife to Florida and has since performed over 10,000 radiosurgery procedures, offering a safe, precise alternative to open surgery. His practice focuses on conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, arteriovenous malformations, and small intracranial tumors.
A Yale University graduate and former Chief of Epilepsy and Skull Base Surgery at the University of Maryland, Dr. Wolf has over three decades of clinical experience. Known affectionately as the “King of the Gamma Knife,” he has helped thousands of patients achieve life-changing results with minimal recovery time. His 4.8/5 patient rating reflects his dedication and technical mastery.
Dr. Wolf’s Miami Neuroscience Center at Larkin combines state-of-the-art technology with personalized care. Patients frequently travel from out of state and abroad for his expertise. His philosophy centers on precision medicine—treating every case with individualized planning and compassion.
Appointment: Larkin Health – Dr. Wolf | 📞 786-871-6856
Affiliation: Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach
Specialty: Brain & Spine Surgery, Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery, Stroke & Aneurysm Care
Dr. Todd Lasner is a trusted name in Miami’s neurosurgical community, with over 25 years of experience performing intricate cranial and spinal operations. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and residency alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Lasner brings academic rigor and technical excellence to every case.
He specializes in microsurgery, cerebrovascular repair, spinal decompression, and endoscopic neurosurgery. Patients often describe him as approachable, confident, and thorough—a reflection of his near-perfect 4.9/5 rating. Beyond surgery, Dr. Lasner is actively involved in advancing patient safety and neurological rehabilitation initiatives at Mount Sinai.
At Mount Sinai Medical Center, Dr. Lasner works within a multidisciplinary neuroscience team equipped with advanced imaging and minimally invasive surgical systems. He treats conditions ranging from aneurysms to herniated discs and brain tumors. His holistic approach emphasizes early diagnosis, minimally invasive intervention, and comprehensive recovery planning.
Appointment: Mount Sinai – Dr. Lasner | 📞 305-674-2950
Finding the right neurosurgeon depends on your diagnosis, personal needs, and comfort level. Miami’s diverse medical landscape ensures that every patient—from children to seniors—can find expert care.
Before your consultation, gather previous imaging, medical records, and insurance details. Each hospital offers multilingual patient services, virtual consultations, and dedicated care coordinators. Whether you’re confronting a tumor diagnosis, spinal injury, or neurological pain, these Miami experts deliver the highest standards of safety, skill, and compassion.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a board-certified neurosurgeon or neurologist for personalized care and treatment options.
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