Dr. Paul Kim, MD

I was in serious back pain and was excited to be referred to Dr. Kim to discuss my options. After finally being called back almost an hour after my appointment time (that's fine, he's a busy surgeon), I didn't feel like he had much time for me or listened to my problems in detail. Despite no obvious abnormality on my MRIs, his recommendation was to proceed with spinal fusion surgery. What!? Needless to say I did not do that and was quite surprised that was even recommended for me. He may be a great surgeon, but unless you know you require surgery, based on my experience, I would not recommend.

As far as I'm concerned he's the best neurosurgeon around. I've sent a few people to him.

Dr. Kim was very personable and introduced himself in a very respectful manner. He was able to explain my condition thoroughly and explain why other opinions did not apply. He answered all the questions that I had reasonably: if things are getting better don't rush into a surgical procedure. He invited me to call back should problems reoccur which, at that point, he would re-evaluate. I appreciate Dr. Kim's entire approach,have great respect for him and trust him to be my neurosurgeon.

I saw Dr. Kim after more than 17 years of low back and leg pain, that was constant pain for over 7 years, and could no longer be controlled by less invasive procedures. He and his staff were very compassionate and patiently answered all my questions. He explained in detail my condition, and his recommendation for surgery necessary to correct it. He did a 2-layer fusion. The results have been life-changing. Within 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery, my low back and legs were generally pain-free when sitting, standing, walking, or lying down. I am now 4 months since the surgery and all aspects of the surgery, hospitalization, and recovery have far exceeded my expectations. If I should need any other spinal surgery in the future, Dr. Kim is the only doctor that I would want to do it. Thank you Dr. Kim and staff for all you have done for me.

Dr. Kim has provided healthcare for over 8 years. He is knowledgeable and caring. He stays abreast of current spinal research. His professionalism, communication skills, and bedside manner are wonderful! Dr. Kim did an ACDF last year and I had some positive outcomes. During follow up care, he worked to find out why I was experiencing severe numbness in my hands and after testing, determined it is carpal tunnel syndrome...not related to my neck issues. I trust him completely.

Dr. Kim did a 3 level fusion on my lower back with metal rods, pedicle screws, and interbody spacers. I am very happy with the results. 90% of my back pain that I had before surgery is gone. Dr. Kim is up to date with all the latest, most advanced surgical techniques. I am an orthopedic surgeon and I recommend Dr. Paul Kim to all of my patients who need back surgery. I strongly recommend Dr. Kim to anyone who needs back or neck surgery. He is the best spine neurosurgeon in Charlotte, NC, in my opinion.

Refused to listen.overtalked me and told me the pain wasnt coming from where i said it too bad i was surgery candidate he dismissed me bc he couldnt get amy money for surgery

While Dr. Kim is like most doctors, a little smug and dismissive, he is polite and professional and most importantly is a great surgeon. Personality aside I went for medical relief and I got it. He has performed two surgeries so far and is going to do a third. I will note that his demeanor has improved and he has softened up a bit.

I had a terrible experience with a disc fusion surgery. He was smug as so many people have said on here and dismissive. I grew up in the medical community and never (well maybe not never) seen such a lack of empathy. I have been around surgeons all my life and he is at the bottom. I will say he did a great sales job before the surgery. Maybe he has a future in that arena. Beware go elsewhere

I had been a patient of Dr. Kim for several years. He performed 3 cervical fusions. I am still in constant pain. I went back a few months ago to review the MRI & nerve study. He was smug, telling me there is nothing wrong & that my fusions look great. When I asked about the hemangioma that was found on the MRI (where my pain/spasm is) he insisted they don't cause pain. While that is true for most, some ARE symptomatic. After raising his voice to me, I began to cry. He never apologized or even offered a tissue. I will NEVER return to Dr Kim.

Dr. Kim was fantastic! I had spinal fusion for herniated discs. Complicated by Scoliosis, Spondylolisthesis. and more! I feel like he gave me my life back!

Big and little procedure. Dr Kim is an amazing surgeon and person. As a physician myself I have the utmost highest regards for him and highly recommend him And

Just finished up disc replacement surgery for my wife. Could not disagree more with the previous reviewer who did not appreciate Dr Kims bedside manner. He has been thorough, authoritative, and always open for Q&A. My neighbor recommended him to us - have nothing but positives to say about the experience. Michael & K

Waited 95" for a short unpleasant mtg. Kim raced thru a cursory explanation of my condition while ignoring questions. After 2-3 minutes of lecture he permitted brief Q&A. I left shaken by Kim's intimidating behavior. Followed Kim's orders and underwent insurance-required treatment from an assoc who was nearly as bad as Kim. Kim has poor "bedside manner". I don't know if he's an effective Dr since I couldn't bring myself to return to a Dr I mistrusted for actual treatment (spinal surgery).

I was disappointed with Dr. Kim. I was referred for an urgent surgical consult for severe central foraminal and lateral stenosis at 3 + lumbar levels. It took 5 weeks to get an urgent appointment. I waited over two hours to see Dr. Kim. Dr. Kim did not examine me. He looked at MRIs and CT. Said i urgently needed surgery and would require 6 months before i could return to my profession. His answer to every question i had was no, you can do that Time with the dr was under 3 minutes.

I was sent to Dr. Petty after a fail L3-4-5 surgery to Dr. Kim. Dr Kim done surgery on L3-C4 and replace L3-4-5. But upper spin nothing could be done. My Family Dr. Said No and sent me to another Dr. Dr. Kim was so mad and kicked me out , Bye just listen to my Family Dr. Dr Kim said never come back. Now I'm in a Wheelchair. Thanks Dr. Kim All I want was help, And now I've stoped work and looking to a short life due to not walking. And giving up. If he would have listened I could be working

Failed back surgery. Back hurts constantly, Also, have back spasms every time I stand and walk. He messed up nerves leading from spine, down outer left leg, foot and 4 of my 5 toes. He was discourteous when I told him about the numbness and cold feelings. He spoke very condescending to me. I wouldn't sent my worst enemy to him. Smug.

Great surgeon