Richard Naftalis, MD, FAANS, FACS

Richard Naftalis, MD, FAANS, FACS, is a board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders, spine conditions and complex neurological diseases. He sees patients in Dallas, Texas, and provides comprehensive neurosurgical care utilizing advanced technologies and evidence-based treatment approaches.


Dr. Naftalis has extensive experience treating brain tumors, spinal disorders, epilepsy, Chiari malformations, neurotrauma and complex spinal conditions. His clinical interests include complex and reconstructive spine surgery, minimally invasive neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery, radiosurgery and the treatment of cranial and spinal tumors. He incorporates advanced technologies such as intraoperative neuronavigation, intraoperative MRI, Gamma Knife®, CyberKnife® and Novalis® radiosurgery to develop personalized treatment plans designed to achieve the best possible outcomes for each patient.

Known for his patient-centered approach, Dr. Naftalis believes that evidence-based medicine, patient education and compassionate care are essential to delivering an exceptional healthcare experience. He works closely with patients and their families to ensure they understand their diagnosis, treatment options and recovery plan, helping them make informed decisions throughout their care journey.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Naftalis serves as the Neurosurgical Director of the Baylor Neuroscience Center Epilepsy Center at Baylor University Medical Center, reflecting his leadership and expertise in the treatment of complex neurological conditions. He has also contributed to advancements in neurosurgery through research, including recent work focused on spinal cord injury intervention and recovery, helping advance treatment options for patients living with spinal cord injuries.

Dr. Naftalis has been repeatedly recognized for his commitment to clinical excellence and outstanding patient care. He has been consistently named a D Magazine Best Doctor, earning a place in the publication's Best Doctors Hall of Fame, and has also been recognized as a Texas Super Doctor, achieving Texas Monthly Hall of Fame status for his longstanding excellence in neurosurgery.