The fact of the matter is that, yes, according to Dr. Vikas Varma, considered to be the best spine surgeon NYC » has to offer, this was definitely the case, especially for those who had had spine surgery years ago. However, due to the new advancements in technology, and in technique, this is no longer the case – minimally invasive spine surgery being a main reason for such a change. In fact, minimally invasive methods significantly lower pain and shorten recovery times. Many patients go home the same day as their surgery. And because MISS can improve outcomes, it can also reduce long-term pain and complications.