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Dr. James Melisi, MD

Dr. James Melisi, MD

Neurosurgery*
40+ years of experience

Dr. James Melisi, MD is a neurosurgeon in Richmond, VA and has over 40 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Melisi has extensive experience in Nervous System Neoplasms. He graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in 1983. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Parham Doctors' Hospital and Henrico Doctors' Hospital. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

4.1 Star Rating
Based on 125 reviews 4.1 Star Rating (125 reviews)

Hospital Highlight

Dr. Melisi is affiliated with Henrico Doctors' Hospital Richmond, a highly rated hospital.

Dr. Melisi is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Neurosurgery

The Healthgrades Choice designation helps you understand the most important factors to consider when choosing a healthcare professional. This designation is earned based on four set standards.
Read our methodology

  • Above average experience
  • Good hospital quality
  • Good patient ratings
  • No healthcare sanctions
  • Area of ExpertiseDr. Melisi specializes in the area of Neurosurgery. See board certifications
  • Explains Conditions WellPatients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Offers TelehealthThis doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Practices at Top HospitalAmerica’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Excellence Award™ See hospitals

More Neurosurgery Specialists at Henrico Doctors' Hospital

Experience Check

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Dr. Melisi's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Melisi

4.1
125 ratings, 90 with a written review
5 star
75%
75%
4 star
3%
3%
3 star
0%
0%
2 star
1%
1%
1 star
21%
21%

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Don't waste your time
Don't waste your time with James W. Melisi. I would post 0 stars if it would allow it. It's been almost 2 months since my appointment with him. I went there because I expected a specialist and professionalism but received the opposite. I shared very concerning images and notes from other doctors of my neck but he could not read the images. He said the notes seamed concerning and that we should schedule surgery right away. He would go to another office and read the images and get back to me within a day or two. I have called and left messages with his assistant Luna and on the Office Managers voice mail. To date (almost 2 months), no one has called me back. After a month of waiting for a call, I went to another doc and I am currently recovering from the procedure. Don't wait when your health matters. If a health team cares about you and your health, they will call you back to tell you something....
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Apr 23, 2025
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Dr. Melisi: Competent, calming, personable
A pain shooting down my leg., possibly sciatica but maybe something else. Dr. Melisi quickly decided he needed an MRI on my hip to determine the cause. I’ll have an appointment a day or two after the scan to learn his diagnosis and treatment plan. He’s operated on me three times and I’ve never had a moment of doubt that I was in great hands.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 29, 2025
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Simply Amazing all around !
Dr. Melisi is the consummate professional He takes the time to listen.I just had spine surgery to relieve pain. My recovery has been amazing! Three Cheers to Dr Melisi and his team And Nove his nurse is simply the best !
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
David Keene – Mar 24, 2025
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An Excellent Physician
Dr. Melisi was very patient and thoroughly explained my condition and options for treatment.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 24, 2025
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I felt ignored
He would not address my symptoms or my lower back problems (herniated L3-4, with spondylosis and stenosis).
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
Helpful
Mar 04, 2025
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Extremely Competent and Caring
I had a brain tumor that Dr. Melisi removed 2 months ago. He is extremely competent and has a wonderful and caring way of approaching my care.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 01, 2025
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I was lucky to get Dr Melisi!
Unexpectedly, I was hospitalized and found out I urgently needed surgery. It was a chaotic and upsetting time. I was stuck with the neurosurgeon on call who could’ve been anybody. I was so lucky it was Dr Melisi. He presented as knowledgeable and experienced. But unlike some other doctors, he took the time to explain everything to me and listened to my questions and concerns. His manner reassured and comforted me to where we wound up laughing. A friend who works at a different hospital was worried and inquired about Dr. Melisi. She found out that an orthopedic surgeon just had Dr Melisi operate in his parent. You can’t beat that time of reference. And Dr Melisi deserves the accolades. My surgery and recovery couldn’t have gone better. Dr Melisi took the time to talk to my family after surgery and personally followed up with me throughout the process. His nurse, Nov, is also quick to respond and very caring. The world would be a better place either way more doctors like Dr Melisi!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Feb 27, 2025
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Great Dr.!
Dr. Melisi spent quality time with me discussing my spine condition and possible surgical remedies. He's a great, patient listener and definitely demonstrated his extensive qualifications, expertise and experience addressing my condition. His assessment was that there's no urgent need for surgery. Additionally, unprompted by me, he offered a specific suggestion for a second opinion, but I don't feel that is necessary, as I'm very comfortable with Dr. Melisi and will be requesting him as my surgeon when the approprate time comes.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Rick Beitel – Jan 18, 2025
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He made me feel very comfortable prior to surgery and even better after! Very pleased
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jan 12, 2025
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Everyone was so nice. Dr Melisi was great discussing why I was there.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Nov 27, 2024
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Dr. Melisi was friendly and seemed interested in listening to my concerns.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Oct 16, 2024
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Everyone was very nice and understanding.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Oct 15, 2024
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Dr. Melisi is a wonderful neurosurgeon! He cares about his patients and always takes his time with you. He recently completed surgery on my back and I now walk with no pain! Dr. Melisi has my full trust and confidence.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Rae – Oct 09, 2024
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Dr. Melisi deserves the highest possible rating as a professional and as a person. He is an amazing neurosurgeon and great communicator. After evaluating my CT and MRI he explained everything clearly and in caring manner to myself and my family during a very stressful time.Post op he has been most supportive as well.I will forever be grateful to him for the good outcome.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Victoria Alpen – Sep 04, 2024
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Lumbar Laminectomy with L4-5 fusion
Dr Melisi takes the time to explain any problem identified and clearly explains the options available to address the problem(s). Easy to talk with, and ready to answer any questions you may have!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Ben McMillan – Aug 03, 2024
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Dr Melisi - Back Surgery - Highly Recommend
Dr. Melisi understood my MRI and knew exactly what was going on. He told me what he was going to do, how the recovery would go, and what my long term status would be .... and then he made it happen. The numbness and pain in my legs is gone (6wks out). My back is fine. His no nonsense confident approach was reassuring. He took-takes time to answer all my questions.I am very thankful I found this competent surgeon to perform my laminectomy and solve the numbness in my legs.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
John W. – Jul 15, 2024
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Less pain and so grateful
First, I saw Dr Melisi as a neurosurgeon, and he took the time to thoroughly explain my condition (he was not condescending!) We (family) decided we wanted him as our surgeon. I am 73, and have arthritis so I knew he couldn’t give me back, my youthful back. But after surgery,oh the relief when I first stood up. At first I was worried about being so happy. Then I realized it was real.I can not recommend him highly enough
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Nancy R Young – Jul 03, 2024
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Normal Again!
Dr. Melisi operated on my lower back, which I had already had surgery on over 30 years ago, to release pressure on the nerves between L3, 4 and 5. I had been struggling with all kinds of physical issues, from shortness of breath to limping badly. I was unable to walk much more that 100 yards without a cane and then needed to sit down from being out of breath. Dr. Melisi preformed a laminectomy at Bon Secours, Memorial Regional Hospital, in Mechanicsville, VA, to relieve the pressure on the nerves, and I was released the next day. He successfully opened up the areas in L3, 4 and 5 and freed up the nerves that were effecting my left leg. I had been literally fighting to say upright.It's only been two weeks since my surgery, and I'm already walking over a mile with no shortness of breath! He has cleared me to basically to do now what I haven't been able to do for several years, such as simple yard work, enjoying my boat and simply feeling normal again. I highly recommend him!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jul 02, 2024
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A 5 star neurosurgeon
I have had a laminectomy and a discectomy with laminectomy performed by Dr. Melisi. Post-operative pain was minimal and the results were excellent. The physical therapist had me up and walking the day of surgery and only 1 night was spent in the hospital. The motivation for both surgeries was the same: increasing pain and a decrease in my ability to perform my daily tasks. My recovery was quicker than expected and I returned to work in 2 - 3 weeks. The only post-operative therapy I required was to gradually increase my walks to 30 minutes per day. My only regret was that I didn't do my first surgery sooner. Dr. Melisi is an amazing surgeon and always spent an adequate amount of time with me. I knew exactly what to expect.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Rick – Jun 23, 2024
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Visit
Dr. Melisi, was very thorough and explaining treatment plan. He was patient and answered any questions we had.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jun 20, 2024
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About Me

biography

Dr. James Melisi, MD is a neurosurgeon in Richmond, VA and has over 40 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Melisi has extensive experience in Nervous System Neoplasms. He graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in 1983. He is affiliated...read more
  • Neurosurgery

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Lutheran Medical Center

    Residency Hospital
  • Al Mouassat Hospital

    Internship Hospital
  • University Of Damascus

    Medical School
  • Wayne State University

    Fellowship Hospital, 1989
  • Baylor College Of Medicine

    Residency Hospital, 1987
  • Baylor College Of Medicine

    Internship Hospital, 1984
  • Baylor College Of Medicine

    Medical School, 1983
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Neurological Surgery®
Neurosurgery
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.

Dr. Melisi is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Neurosurgery

    Read our methodology

    Affiliated Hospitals

    • Henrico Doctors' Hospital

      1602 Skipwith Rd
      Richmond, VA 23229
      Recipient of 54
      hospital awards

      America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Excellence Award™ (2025, 2024, 2023)

      Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

      America's 100 Best Hospitals Award™ (2023)

      Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

      View all awards

      How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

      83%
      Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

      1% lower than the national average

      78%
      Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

      2% higher than the national average

      View all patient feedback
    • Parham Doctors' Hospital

      7700 E Parham Rd
      Richmond, VA 23294
      Recipient of 35
      hospital awards

      America's 100 Best Hospitals Award™ (2023)

      Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

      America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2023)

      Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

      View all awards
    • Retreat Doctors' Hospital

      2621 Grove Ave
      Richmond, VA 23220
      Recipient of 35
      hospital awards

      America's 100 Best Hospitals Award™ (2023)

      Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

      America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2023)

      Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

      View all awards
    Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality