Richard Naftalis, MD, FAANS, FACS

Richard Naftalis, MD, FACS is board certified in neurological surgery. Dr. Naftalis has extensive experience and special interest in the surgical treatment of disorders of the spine and brain. Additionally, his practice includes the neurosurgical management of tumors, Chiari malformations, the surgical treatment of epilepsy, complex and reconstructive spine surgery and neurotrauma. His armamentarium includes minimally invasive techniques, the use of intraoperative neuronavigation and MRI technology® , Gamma Knife® , Cyberknife® and Novalis® Radiosurgery, and applications of evidence-based medical practice. Dr. Naftalis enjoys the challenges of the neurosurgical patient and the complexity of their conditions. Dr. Naftalis feels that implementation of evidence-based medical practice, patient education and compassionate care all create a more satisfying and nurturing patient experience. Dr. Naftalis also serves as the Neurosurgical Director of the Baylor Neuroscience Center, Epilepsy Center at Baylor University Medical Center.

Dr. Naftalis has been nominated for the 13th consecutive year for D Magazine's 2025 Best Docs.

Dr. Naftalis has been named one of D Magazine’s Best Docs at least 15 times earning him a place on D Magazine’s Hall of Fame list.

Dr. Naftalis has been named one of Texas Monthly's Texas Super Doctors for over 10 years earning him a place on Texas Monthly's Hall of Fame list.
Dr. Naftalis has recently co-authored an article around spinal cord injury intervention. Patients living with chronic spinal cord injuries now have hope of regaining arm and hand mobility.