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John Heller

John Heller, MD

4.8318 ratings

Spine Surgery

Telehealth Visits Available
Online Booking
Need help scheduling? Call (404) 778-7000

Highlights

Languages

  • English

About John Heller

Emory Affiliation

Emory Clinic - School of Medicine Faculty
Emory Healthcare Network
Emory Physician Group Practice

Academic Title

Professor

Year Started Practicing

1988

About the Provider

At Case Western Reserve University, Dr. Heller trained under Dr. Henry Bohlman and Dr. Steven Garfin, two of the founding fathers of modern spine surgery.  Specializing in the research and development of instrumentation in cervical spine surgery, including cervical disc replacement and laminoplasty, Dr. Heller is an internationally renowned lecturer and teacher. 

He started working at Emory in 1989.

Professional Memberships

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Cervical Spine Research Society

Council of Spine Societies

North American Spine Society

Southern Orthopaedic Association

Interpretive Services

To provide the highest quality of care, interpreter services may be utilized to ensure proper communication of medical information for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and non-English speaking patients or family members.

Awards

CIBA Community Service Award
Mario Boui Award 
European CSRS
Low Back Pain Research, 2002 
Volvo
Cervical Spine Research Society 
Research Award, 1989
Kashiwagi-Suzuki Traveling Fellow 
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 1996
Teacher of the Year Award 
Emory Orthopaedic Resident Selection, 1996

Locations

  1. Emory Orthopaedics & Spine Center - Atlanta

Expertise

Education

  • Fellowship: University of California San Diego, Spine Fellowship, 1989
  • Residency: Case Western Reserve University, Orthopaedic Surgery, 1988
  • Internship: University Hospitals of Cleveland, Orthopaedic Surgery, 1984
  • Medical Education: John Hopkins University School of Medicine, MD, 1983

Board Certifications

  • Orthopaedic Surgery: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, 1991

Ratings & Reviews

4.8 out of 5

318 ratings

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

Provider showed concern
Provider explained things clearly
Provider discussed treatment options
Provider included you in decisions
Likelihood of recommending this provider
Search reviews
    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/17/2025

    Dr. Heller and his staff have always been professionally thorough and engaging on all visits. Very direct but not lacking in compassion as I navigate major changes in my life moving forward.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/13/2025

    Dr. Heller is an excellent doctor and I sincerely appreciate all of his support

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/9/2025

    Excellent

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/25/2025

    Dr.Heller is GOD spent . He always listened and had concerns for my feelings and the pain that am having. I am going to miss him, but I am happy for him on his retirement. Thank You Dr. Heller for EVERYTHING you have done for me. You are the most HONEST and straight forward doctor that I have ever met.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/28/2025

    Dr Heller was great. Thorough, patient, knowledgeable.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/25/2025

    Experience very good.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/28/2025

    Great

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/10/2025

    Dr Heller is th? best Dr on your staff

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/9/2025

    Dr Heller is not only a skilled surgeon and resolved my issues without causing me loss of movement, but was extremely patient with my questions and answered them patiently and thoroughly. He included me in decisions for my procedure options and listened to all my concerns.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/2/2025

    Heller/ team excel in these areas.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/10/2025

    Dr Heller answered all my questions He was confident and reassuring Thank you Doctor Heller

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/26/2025

    Dr. Heller was well prepared for our appointment.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/28/2025

    Dr.Heller explained everything in understanding terms. He was forthright about prognosis and procedures.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/28/2025

    Dr. Heller always listens and provide alternatives with a reason explanation.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/22/2025

    It was a great experience thank you

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/22/2025

    Yes, I was very satisfied with the all process

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/21/2025

    I was seen equally by a PA and the doctor. They both listen to my questions and concerns and answered me, but I didn't feel like I left knowing a whole lot more than when I walked in. I feel like a surgeon's knowledge of how someone's life is practically affected after surgery is very limited. The PA asked me about my pain and I told her I was navigating that and it had increased, but the MD did not follow up with any questions about pain management. It was unclear if the PA was preparing for the doctor visit or taking completely separate information.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/9/2025

    Dr took his time had copies of X-rays to show me and explained everything he was fantastic.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/5/2025

    Extremely efficient

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/1/2025

    Excellent and thorough

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/31/2025

    Dr. Heller provided extraordinary service (and surgery)! He always goes above and beyond to explain everything and answer all questions! I feel like I have a new lease on life! Thank you!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/29/2025

    Have recommended Emory to many people

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/17/2025

    Dr Heller was fantastic

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/12/2025

    Dr Heller was great

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/10/2025

    I have known Dr. Heller for 25+ years. I drove a 300 mile round trip just to see him. He is the best; he is so easy to understand.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/10/2025

    Everything was great. In fact, I've already recommended several friends and family to Dr. Heller.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/5/2025

    Fantastic doctor

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/6/2024

    Provided info I was seeking. Explained thoroughly my options. Made me aware of the benefits and risks.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/23/2024

    Dr Heller answered questions asked. However additional scans were need to further elevate proposed treat, problem or treatment. He did what he could with what we had.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/22/2024

    Outstanding service.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/17/2024

    Dr Heller is very thoughtful and discerning

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/16/2024

    Great experience with the staff and physician.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/15/2024

    Dr Heller is the most empathetic, surgically gifted, compassionate physician that I ever encountered

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/8/2024

    Dr Heller is the best. So glad I got to him

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/30/2024

    Dr Heller and staff were remarkable

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/19/2024

    Dr. Heller was prepared, very thorough explanation of my condition, and considerate of my personal input. I trust Dr. Heller to advise me on my condition and plan for action.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/18/2024

    I felt really listened to, my questions were responded to with clarity, and felt secure about decision made.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/17/2024

    Dr Heller is always very caring, listens to my concerns, and finds the reason for my pain.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/28/2024

    My experience with Dr. Heller and his team has been very positive .

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/16/2024

    Outstanding service. The surgery has changed my life.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/12/2024

    Dr Heller is what most doctors aspire to be like. His assistant didn't fall far from the Heller tree.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/23/2024

    Dr. Heller took his time with me in trying to figure out what is the source of my pain, then ordering additional radiological studies.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/23/2024

    Dr. Heller is the best doctor I have ever seen, and you can include all of them. He is the only person who has listened that intently and recalled everything I shared and gave me answers to years long pain. I am extremely grateful for his care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/17/2024

    Was very comfortable with everyone

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/10/2024

    Dr Heller is extraordinarily patient surgeon with tremendous empathy .

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/26/2024

    Dr Heller is the most thorough, thoughtful, empathetic and well skilled surgeon that I ever encountered

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/19/2024

    Great experience!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/17/2024

    I have been told by my other doctors that my problems and pain are due to my spine despite my complaints of hip and leg pain for more than two years. Dr. Heller ordered the tests needed to confirm that I need total hip replacement surgery asap.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/16/2024

    I was impressed with the service despite the previous mentioned glitch. Even the restroom was so above par! It was beyond a 5 star restaurant facilityespecially since there was no one watching me. Whoever engineers the maintenance of your restrooms needs a significant cash bonus!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/11/2024

    Great

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/14/2024

    Excellent

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/12/2024

    Dr. Heller was excellent, professional, patient and listened to all of my concerns and the concerns of my daughter.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/8/2024

    Dr Heller was very good at listening to my problem and explained surgery procedures very well.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/7/2024

    Good experience.

    1 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/6/2024

    Uninterested in my problem. Looks me like what you want from me. Terrible experience

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/30/2024

    Dr Heller and his staff are very good. I've referred several people to him and will continue to do so.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/22/2024

    Dr Heller was very clear that my future health outcomes are definitely in my hands at this time

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/22/2024

    Very Very Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/22/2024

    Respect was shown to me for my own efforts to get healthy and stay healthy. My knowledge of the human body in health and ill was was respected. I felt "heard"

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/10/2024

    Original spinal surgery by this doctor was 2019 but only two visits in about three years

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/7/2024

    Excellent

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/25/2024

    Dr Heller was direct, thorough, and decisive.I was very comfortable with the exam process.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/17/2024

    As always, great place to feel well-cared for!

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/17/2024

    I felt "stupid" (term used" for traveling so far. And I certainly wasn't sure how my various conditions were connected to my back or spine. I had a dr in our area to immediately talk about a full rod & it horrified me. Dr Heller had been my husband'& other federal agents Dr & I felt I need the absolute best advice no matter how far I drove. I needed the real deal. And did gain a great amount of knowledge though honestly do not know what to do with information or finding a Dr closer to me. It was not offered let me help you find someone. I felt like I was some overreacting person & I was not. With only an xray, not a MRI, a dr wanted to do back surgery on me . I wanted opinionand care who my husband felt was who zi needed to see despite distance.