1. Neurosurgeons
  2. MI
  3. Southfield, MI
  4. Dr. Richard Fessler, MD

Dr. Richard Fessler, MD

Neurosurgery•Male•Age 59

Neurosurgery

Dr. Richard Fessler, MD is a Neurosurgery Specialist in Southfield, MI and has over 36 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Univ of MI Med Sch in 1987. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Ascension Saint John Hospital and Beaumont Hospital - Dearborn. His office accepts new patients.

Dr. Richard Fessler, MD

Michigan Head & Spine Institute

29275 Northwestern Hwy Ste 100 Southfield, MI 48034
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Dr. Fessler's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Fessler

4.2

Based on 69 ratings

5 Star
75%
75%
4 Star
7%
7%
3 Star
0%
0%
2 Star
1%
1%
1 Star
16%
16%
What went well
No reviews yet
What could be improved
No reviews yet

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RecentHighestLowestMost Helpful
Reply
Great Doctor
Im still alive because of this guy! I Had a ruptured Brain Aneurysm back in 2002.
Helpful
Tmarie – Nov 20, 2022
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The staff was kind, helpful and friendly. Dr. Fessler however was not interested in what I had to say about what I was going through. He actually asked me if I could answer questions with only a yes or no? He then looked at my husband and said “I feel very sorry for you”. ?!?! He seemed more interested in scheduling expensive, invasive procedures than talking with me about my problem to see if the procedures were necessary and why I was there. Dr. Fessler was arrogant, pompous and condescending. I wouldn’t even give him one star!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
Helpful
Mar 08, 2022
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Insulting, Arrogant, and disdainful. I would never recommend visiting this doctor to any sane, intelligent person. His staff are FAR more pleasant, helpful, and professional than he. This doctor even dismissed results which had been described in my post-operative documentation as absolutely irrelevant to Him - though they were described as the cause of needing to visit the ER. I cannot urge avoidance of this guy enough. One star only because ZERO Is un-available.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Office environment
  • Long wait times
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
John – Jun 23, 2020
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Dr. Fessler is an outstanding doctor!!! He is likely the most competent doctor in the state - or possibly even the entire country. I had a rather complex medical concern, but nevertheless I felt at ease, knowing that I was in good hands. I have the utmost confidence in Dr. Fessler, and you too can rest assured that his expertise, experience, and dedication to his craft are second to none!!!
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
10 people found this helpful
Helpful
AC – Jan 22, 2020
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Best surgeon PERIOD! I had a neck surgery by a very good neurosurgeon before but always had pain afterwards. However after I was told at one look from another neurologist there was nothing wrong on my MRI, Dr.Fessler found things wrong the other didnt. He did a disc replacement and theres hardly a scar! My next day I felt virtually no pain and it's been that way since. I can't thank him enough because he changed my life. Ive had neck pain since 1994. Been going to M.H.S.I. for years they r best!
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
6 people found this helpful
Helpful
Kurtis Damon in Hazel Park, MI – Dec 07, 2018
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Dr Fessler has operated on my back twice. Complete trust and admiration for this man. First time he was just a baby, second time was 20 years later. I drove over two hours to go to Dr. Fessler I have referred a family to Dr Fessler for their 10 year old son with an aneurysm and has two procedures and is not doing well, I have urged them to contact Dr. Fessler and I pray that he can help this young man. His name is Scott Lake. Sincerely Vivian Houchins
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
5 people found this helpful
Helpful
Vivian Houchins in Farwell, MI – Nov 09, 2018
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Reply
Where do I start? Dr. Fessler saved my life. Dr. Fessler is very understanding and listens to his patients. He is an excellent physician.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Vanessa S. in Southfield, MI – Feb 21, 2018
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Dr. Fessler began treating me in April, 1996 and following me after an auto accident in September, 1996. I would and have recommended him to many people. He is highly recognized by his peers and is very knowledgeable in the different aspects of his specialty. He treats each of his patients with the utmost respect and compassion. He has improved my daily activities beyond anything I could have ever expected. There are no words to express how grateful I am for Dr. Fessler.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
Robin Albright in Lincoln Park, MI 48146 – Jul 14, 2017
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Reply
I went to see him. Very arrogant and rude. Told me my back problems were because of weight. That I should go back in therapy to loose the weight. Went to a different dr. Was diagnosed and going to have surgery because my back is bad.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Office environment
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Jennifer H. in Detroit – Jun 26, 2017
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Reply
I had to see Dr. Fessler when I was in St. Johns Providence this past weekend. I found his mannerisms to be very offensive when he called me out of my name. I wouldn't recommend this doctor to any of my friends or family members. If this is how he speaks to patients who have not been given prior knowledge to certain specialists or doctors,it is only a matter of time before his rude behavior gets him into a world of hurt literally and physically.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Mr. Hogan in Detroit, MI – Jun 05, 2017
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Reply
I suffered four years with severe migraines and Dr. Fessler diagnosed me with my first visit before he had me get a MRI. He was a wonderful doctor and was very patient listening to me explain what symptoms I had. I has been to many doctors and specialist doctors that never could diagnoses my health situation. Thank you Dr. Fessler!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Kimberly in Macomb, MI – May 24, 2017
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Reply
Very professional, compassionate and competent. Wouldn't have anyone else work on me!
What went well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Grosse Pointe, MI – May 24, 2017
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Reply
Dr. Fessler is an excellent Dr. I would not be alive today without him
What went well
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Linda Ludke in Clarkston, MI – May 23, 2017
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Reply
Arrogant and rude!
What went well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Office environment
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
4 people found this helpful
Helpful
May 09, 2017
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Reply
When you have an unusual condition, you want the best - that's Dr. Fessler. He's clearly one of the leaders in his field. I really liked his consultative, informative, pragmatic approach. I felt like I could ask any question and get a clear answer. He's in demand, so sometimes appointments are booked a bit out, but he's worth waiting for. I had a follow-up issue after surgery on Christmas Eve and he came by the hospital ER to check on me despite been over an hour away. Dr. Fessler is the best!
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Sean H. in Chelsea, MI – Jan 27, 2017
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Reply
I was referred to Dr. Fessler by my PCP and tried to get appointment. They have cancelled and rescheduled three times. I could be 6 feet under by the time I get in to see him. 3 months for an appointment and he is the only physician in the practice that does this kind of appointment.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Staff wasn't friendly
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
gray in CLINTON TWP – Jan 25, 2017
Please call the MHSI office at 877-784-3667 to...Read More
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Reply
DR. Fessler is a very compassionate doctor. He easy to talk to and explains procedures in detail. He is a very experienced surgeon. Rod had an anterior cervical fusion and everything is going fine. He kept me informed and also called me after surgery to update me on his condition. I work in the medical field and it is very refreshing to have a Dr. that is so caring. I would recommend him to my friends and family. Thanks again, Denise Kennedy
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
4 people found this helpful
Helpful
Denise Kennedy in Pinconning, Michigan – Jan 12, 2017
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Reply
Very caring and his confidence inspired my confidence in a good outcome.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
4 people found this helpful
Helpful
Linda936 in Southfield, MI – Oct 26, 2016
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Reply
Excellent.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
Devin962 in Southfield, MI – Oct 16, 2016
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Reply
I am very satisfied with the results of my surgery. I am back to my normal life.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Morgan00 in Southfield, MI – Oct 15, 2016
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About Me

Care Philosophy

Dr. Fessler's approach to patient care is compassionate and direct in explaining conditions or treatments to patients. Providing patients with the best...Read more

Biography

Dr. Richard Fessler specializes in complex vascular abnormalities of the brain, neck and spinal cord. He has been the leader in stroke and aneurysm care...Read more

Specialties

  • Neurosurgery

Education

Nagoya School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
Fellowship Hospital
State University of New York at Buffalo
Fellowship Hospital
1995
Harper University Hospital
Residency Hospital
1988
Detroit Receiving Hospital
Internship Hospital
1987
Univ of MI Med Sch
Medical School
1987
University of Mi Med Sch
Medical School
,

Languages

  • English
  • Japanese

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to schedule an appointment with Dr. Richard Fessler, MD?

Find contact information here to make an appointment.

What other Neurosurgery Specialists practice nearby?

Click here to compare with other Neurosurgery Specialists.

Does Dr. Richard Fessler, MD accept any insurance plans?

A list of accepted insurance providers is available on the Healthgrades insurance check. It is always a good idea to verify your insurance when making an appointment.

What conditions does Dr. Richard Fessler, MD treat?

Dr. Fessler frequently treats the following conditions: Cerebral Artery Thrombosis, Brain Aneurysm, and Stroke. See more on Healthgrades.

What is Dr. Richard Fessler, MD's office address?

Dr. Fessler's office is located at 29275 Northwestern Hwy Ste 100, Southfield, MI 48034. You can find other locations and directions on Healthgrades.

What languages is Dr. Richard Fessler, MD fluent in?

Dr. Fessler is able to speak Japanese and English. View profile to see all.

Is Dr. Richard Fessler, MD affiliated with any hospitals?

Dr. Richard Fessler, MD is affiliated with Ascension Saint John Hospital and Beaumont Hospital - Dearborn.

How much experience does Dr. Richard Fessler, MD have?

Dr. Fessler has over 35 years of healthcare experience.

Does Dr. Richard Fessler, MD receive good ratings from patients?

There is a star rating of 4.2/5 for Dr. Richard Fessler, MD. Patients say that the provider explained conditions well. See all patient feedback on Healthgrades.

Experience and Background Checks

Experience
Background

Background Check

Healthgrades does not collect malpractice claims information for Michigan
No disciplinary actions found for the years we collect data
No board actions found for the years we collect data
Learn more about background checks

Experience Check

Check Dr. Fessler's experience treating your condition or procedure

Dr. Fessler's Top Procedures and Conditions

Treatment Frequency
Cerebral Artery Thrombosis
normal
normal

Treatment Frequency

Dr. Fessler treats Cerebral Artery Thrombosis more than 85% of his peers

Dr. Fessler treats this condition more than 85% of his peers

Brain Aneurysm
normal
normal

Treatment Frequency

Dr. Fessler treats Brain Aneurysm more than 85% of his peers

Dr. Fessler treats this condition more than 85% of his peers

Stroke
normal
normal

Treatment Frequency

Dr. Fessler treats Stroke more than 84% of his peers

Dr. Fessler treats this condition more than 84% of his peers

Rating Includes other areas of care:

  • Acute Stroke
  • Anterior Spinal Artery Syndrome
  • Bilateral Stroke
  • Brainstem Strokes
Learn more about Stroke
Learn more about experience ratings

Dr. Fessler's conditions and procedures:

  • Acoustic Neuroma
  • Aneurysm
  • Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)
  • Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) Brain
  • Bone Disorders
  • Brain Aneurysm
  • Brain Cancer
  • Brain Disorders
  • Broken Neck
  • Cerebral Artery Thrombosis
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage
  • Cerebral Vascular Disease
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak (CSF Leak)
  • Cerebrovascular Disease
  • Cervical Spine Myelopathy
  • Chiari Malformation Type 1
  • Chiari's Deformity
  • Cranial Trauma
  • Degenerative Disc Disease
  • Ear Disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Fracture
  • Herniated Disc
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Intervertebral Disc Disease
  • Low Back Pain
  • Lumbar Spine Fracture
  • Meningiomas
  • Myelopathy
  • Neurostimulation
  • Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
  • Osteoarthritis of Spine
  • Pituitary Tumor
  • Polyneuropathy
  • Radiculopathy (Not Due to Disc Displacement)
  • Secondary Malignancies
  • Spinal Cord Tumor
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Spine Deformities
  • Spine Disorders
  • Spine Fractures, Traumatic
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Stenting, Intracranial Vessels
  • Stroke
  • Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
  • Subdural Hemorrhage
  • Thoracic Spine Fracture
  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
  • Traumatic Brain Injury
  • Upper Back Pain
  • Vascular Disease

Insurance Check

Search for your insurance provider

Dr. Fessler accepts

Accepted insurance can change. Please double-check when making an appointment.

(248) 784-3667

Dr. Fessler accepts the following insurance:

Aetna
Allina Advantage
Anthem
National (BlueCard) PPO
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
HealthyBlue 2.0
Cigna
Cofinity
Dimension Health
HAP Insurance
Humana
McLaren Health Plan
Medicare
MultiPlan
Priority Health
State Farm
Total Health Care, USA
Tricare
UnitedHealthCare
United Healthcare
Worker's Compensation
Worker's Compensation WC
Zurich
Cofinity

Locations

Michigan Head & Spine Institute

Michigan Head & Spine Institute29275 Northwestern Hwy Ste 100 Southfield, MI 48034
1
  • Call
  • Fax
  • Hours
    • Wed: 9:00am - 5:00pm
  • Directions
(248) 784-3667

Michigan Head & Spine Institute

St. John Providence Health System22201 Moross Rd Ste 380 Detroit, MI 48236
2
(877) 784-3667

Michigan Head & Spine Insttitute

Michigan Head & Spine Insttitute25500 Meadowbrook Rd Ste 250 Novi, MI 48375
3
  • Call
  • Fax
  • Hours
    • Wed: 11:00am - 4:00pm
  • Directions
(877) 784-3667