Columbia University spine surgeon · Queens, NY
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in Queens
Dr. John A. Buza III, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained spine surgeon who treats neck and back conditions, from herniated discs and sciatica to spinal stenosis, with the least invasive approach that will work for you.
- Board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon
- Assistant Clinical Professor, Columbia University
- Operates at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens
- Offices in Fresh Meadows, Jackson Heights and Long Island City






Conditions treated
What brings you in?
Start with your symptoms. Each guide explains the cause, the treatment options, and when surgery makes sense.
Neck pain or arm pain
Pain, numbness or tingling that travels from the neck into the shoulder, arm or hand.
Sciatica or leg pain
Shooting pain, numbness or weakness from the lower back down the leg.
Pain when standing or walking
Legs that ache, tire or go numb with walking and feel better when you sit or lean forward.
Balance or hand clumsiness
Trouble with buttons, handwriting or balance can be a sign of spinal cord compression in the neck.
Surgical expertise
Smaller incisions. Faster recovery.
Most patients get better without surgery, and Dr. Buza will tell you if that's you. When surgery is the right choice, he uses minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques that remove pressure on the nerves through small incisions, with less muscle disruption, less pain and a quicker return to work and life. Many procedures are done as same-day or overnight surgery.
- Minimally invasive spine surgery
- Endoscopic spine surgery
- Computer-assisted 3D navigation
- Ultrasonic bone removal
- Motion-preserving cervical disc replacement


Meet Dr. Buza
Academic expertise, personal care
Dr. John A. Buza III is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. He trained at NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital and completed a combined orthopedic and neurosurgical spine fellowship at the Norton Leatherman Spine Center, one of the country's leading spine programs.
He believes the best spine care starts with a clear explanation. He'll walk you through your imaging, explain every option, and help you choose the treatment that fits your life.
About Dr. BuzaPatient reviews
In their own words
I had a L4 L5 Spinal Fusion done at Presbyterian Hospital in Queens N.Y. My Surgeon was Dr. John Buza who did a fantastic spine surgery on me. As soon as I woke up in the recovery room the nurses had me stand up and walk. The pain I had before the surgery going down my whole left side from my lower back to my feet was GONE. I recommend Dr. John Buza highly.
I had a very good experience at Dr. Buza's office. The entire staff (desk, x-ray techs, nurses) is pleasant and service oriented, making everything move smoothly. I saw Dr. Buza after a thorough pre-meeting with his physician assistant. Dr. Buza immediately puts you at ease, explains everything clearly and patiently, and makes you a partner in the recommended care and next steps. I highly recommend him and his office in LIC.
Excellent, caring surgeon who always goes the extra mile. Always has the time to discuss my needs and concerns at every visit from before my surgery till now almost two years later. A continued thank you for all your help!
Three Queens locations
Offices near you
For an appointment at any office, call 866-670-6824.
Fresh Meadows
163-03 Horace Harding Expwy, 4th Floor
Fresh Meadows, NY 11365
Long Island City
28-25 Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor
Long Island City, NY 11101
Your first visit
Getting started is simple
- Call or request a consult. Our team will find a time at the office most convenient for you.
- Bring your imaging. Bring any prior MRI or X-rays and their reports. If you haven't had spine X-rays, our office will usually take them before your consultation.
- Get a clear plan. Dr. Buza examines you, reviews your images with you, and explains every option, surgical and non-surgical.
Talk to a spine surgeon about your options
Most patients improve without surgery. When surgery is the right choice, Dr. Buza specializes in minimally invasive techniques designed for faster recovery. Appointments at three Queens offices.
