About Dr. Buza
Dr. John A. Buza III is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon and Assistant Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. He treats patients at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of cervical and lumbar spine conditions, including disc herniations, spinal stenosis, pinched nerves, spinal instability, and spinal deformity. His goal is to provide thoughtful, patient-centered spine care that helps individuals regain mobility, relieve pain, and return to the activities that matter most to them.
Dr. Buza has dedicated over two decades to the study and practice of medicine. He began his academic training at the University of Southern California, where he graduated with honors with a degree in Biological Sciences and a minor in Business Administration. He later attended Columbia University, earning both a Master of Science degree and his Doctor of Medicine from the College of Physicians and Surgeons. During his graduate studies, his research focused on strategies to improve health outcomes through patient education and behavioral medicine.
Following medical school, Dr. Buza completed his orthopedic surgery residency at NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital (Hospital for Joint Diseases), one of the most respected orthopedic training programs in the United States. During residency, he was selected to complete a dedicated clinician-scientist research fellowship at NYU’s Musculoskeletal Research Center, where he conducted research focused on bone healing and musculoskeletal biology.
Dr. Buza then pursued highly specialized spine surgery training through a combined orthopedic and neurosurgical spine fellowship at the Norton Leatherman Spine Center in Louisville, Kentucky—an internationally recognized center for advanced spine care. During this fellowship he received extensive training in both adult and pediatric spinal surgery, including the treatment of complex spinal deformity, degenerative conditions, trauma, and minimally invasive spine techniques.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Buza is actively involved in orthopedic research and education. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications, book chapters, and national presentations related to orthopedic surgery and spine care. His work has been presented at major national meetings including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the North American Spine Society.
Dr. Buza believes that the best spine care begins with clear communication and patient education. He takes time to help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options so they can make confident decisions about their care. His practice focuses on combining the latest evidence-based surgical techniques with a personalized approach designed to achieve the safest and most effective outcomes for each patient.