Neurosurgeon in Hillcrest & Bankers Hill, CA | Advanced Brain & Spine Care by Dr. Sanjay Ghosh
Expert Brain and Spine Care for Hillcrest & Bankers Hill Patients

Hillcrest and Bankers Hill are lively, walkable neighborhoods near Balboa Park where staying active matters. So, when neck or back pain, nerve symptoms, or complex brain conditions interfere with life, it hinders quality of life.

However, there is help at hand with Dr. Sanjay Ghosh, a neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience and a philosophy of compassion, understanding, and excellence.

His precise diagnosis, compassionate communication, and minimally invasive treatments support faster recovery and long-term wellness. This is why so many patients in Hillcrest and Bankers Hill trust Dr. Ghosh.

If pain or nerve symptoms are holding you back, let’s figure out the next step together. Schedule a consult with Dr. Ghosh. Call us at (619) 810-1010!

Dr. Sanjay Ghosh reviewing brain imaging results of a patient.

Minimally Invasive Brain Surgery in Hillcrest & Bankers Hill, CA

Recognized throughout San Diego for his expertise, Dr. Ghosh cares for a full spectrum of neurological conditions, offering both advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive treatment options for the brain, spine and nervous system.

No matter your situation, Dr. Ghosh prioritizes patient education and clear communication. He ensures every patient receives a precise diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan designed to restore movement, reduce pain, and support long-term wellbeing.

How Dr Ghosh Can Help:

  • Cervical and lumbar radiculopathy (targeted nerve decompression)
  • Herniated or bulging discs (microdiscectomy, endoscopic techniques)
  • Radiosurgery for brain and spinal tumors using the CyberKnife System and Gamma Knife radiosurgery
  • Minimally invasive bone spur management
  • Disc, joint and nerve treatments related to sports/work-related spine injuries
  • Brain tumor diagnosis, surgical resection, and follow-up care

Equipped with the latest technology, like intraoperative navigation and neuro-monitoring systems, Dr. Ghosh’s practice can perform minimally invasive procedures that get you back on your feet faster.

Ready for answers about your spine or brain symptoms? Contact our office today.

Why Hillcrest & Bankers Hill, CA Patients Trust Dr. Sanjay Ghosh

Patients are what matters most to Dr. Ghosh, as such he adopts a patient-centered approach that takes into account the various factors of each patient in order to provide the best outcomes. He takes his time to understand your pain and the ideal outcome, then he puts together a plan that will get you there.

Clear communication, patience, understanding and empathy are the hallmarks of Dr. Ghosh’s practice in San Diego County. Adding in his years of expertise and proven results, it makes sense that many people come to see him for a second opinion and can’t imagine going anywhere else.

What sets Dr. Ghosh apart:

  • Board certified and fellowship trained with 20+ years of experience
  • Minimally invasive focus to reduce pain and speed recovery
  • Reputation as a trusted second-opinion resource
  • Thorough education and shared decision making at every visit
  • Convenient access for Hillcrest, Bankers Hill, and surrounding neighborhoods
Hospital and Spine Surgery Centers near Hillcrest & Bankers Hill

Dr. Ghosh performs his procedures out of three main spine surgery centers and hospitals in the San Deigo region, making him a convenient choice for residents of Hillcrest and Bankers Hill.

Dr. Ghosh operates out of:

  • Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla
  • University Ambulatory Surgery Center
  • Outpatient Surgery Center of La Jolla

Each of these advanced regional centers has the equipment and facilities needed for Dr. Ghosh to perform safe, precise neurosurgery and modern minimally invasive approaches. As a result, patients experience smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, greater patient comfort, and often speedier recovery.

Patient Experience Built Around Your Goals

From the first visit through recovery, expect clear explanations, an unrushed evaluation, and a care plan that balances non-surgical care with surgical options only when necessary. Whether your priority is returning to walking in the park, working without pain, or resuming exercise, Dr. Ghosh builds a plan to support your long-term wellbeing.

Start your recovery with a personalized plan from an experienced neurosurgeon. Call Dr. Ghosh (619) 810-1010.

Serving Hillcrest, Bankers Hill, and Nearby Communities

Dr. Ghosh welcomes patients from Hillcrest, Bankers Hill, North Park, Downtown San Diego, Mission Hills, and surrounding areas. His Mission Valley clinic is also easily reachable from major routes including I-5 and I-8 freeways. If for some reason you can’t make it to the clinic, Dr. Ghosh also provides telehealth visits for both consults and follow ups.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer second opinions for spine surgery?

Yes. Many patients visit for a trusted second opinion before deciding on surgery. Dr. Ghosh reviews prior scans and treatment plans to ensure confidence in your next step.

Absolutely! We prioritize urgent cases whenever possible. Call our office directly for assistance with acute pain or worsening neurological symptoms.

Dr. Ghosh is a board-certified neurosurgeon with fellowship training in both brain and spine surgery. He combines advanced training, minimally invasive expertise, and compassionate patient care to deliver tailored, innovative, and compassionate care for his patients.

Our team provides detailed recovery plans, physical therapy coordination, and ongoing check-ins to ensure smooth healing and lasting results.

Specialized Neurosurgical Care for Patients in Hillcrest & Bankers Hill

You don’t have to navigate symptoms or pain alone. Your comfort and mobility matter, meaning you deserve expert care that combines advanced skills with compassionate support.

With Dr. Ghosh, you can expect all that and more, as well as the added benefit of not having to travel too far from home for appointments and treatments.

Call our office or request an appointment online today to start your recovery journey.

Real Lives Transformed

Patients who regained strength and independence through precise, compassionate care.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’ve been diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma or are experiencing symptoms such as hearing loss or dizziness, contact Dr. Ghosh to discuss the best treatment options for you. Our team provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique condition and lifestyle.

Meet Elisha
Elisha G.
Practice Relations Liaison

Proudly partnering with Elisha Green – Practice Relations Liaison.

Meet Lauren
Lauren G.
Assistant Office Manager

Lauren was born and raised in San Diego, California. She attended San Diego State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication in 2013. She began her professional journey in the hospitality field where she discovered her passion for helping others and building relationships. This eventually inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare, joining Sharp Healthcare in 2016 where she found great fulfillment in learning and growing within the medical field. Lauren began working with Senta Neurosurgery in 2017 supporting Dr. Sanjay Ghosh.

When not at work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family, being an Auntie, traveling, and being outdoors.

Dr. Ghosh, I just wanted to take a moment & thank you again for all you have done for my husband, Benton (Rick) Coulter. June 26th he was brought by ambulance to Grossmont Hospital. That was the beginning of the scariest days of our lives. When we were told he needed brain surgery we were stunned, confused & not sure what to do. We asked for a second opinion by you. Within 30 minutes you were at Rick’s bedside. You were friendly, caring & confident. After examining him you told us he would need two surgeries instead of one. You even called me at home to answer our many questions. Thank you for treating us with such respect. You were available & patient as we tried to make a decision. Once we decided you were the right Dr. we had continuous confirmations that we had chosen the right one. We will be forever grateful to you! You saved my husband’s life and his sight. God used you in a mighty way & He answered our prayers. Thank you for all the work it took to be a Brain Surgeon & to help others like us. You are not only skilled but you are also caring. We appreciate you so much.
Sincerely, Karen Coulter
So far I have been taken great care of by Dr. Ghosh and his staff. Dr. G has spent quality time with me reviewing my symptoms and MRI’s etc that are a result of a day at a water park turn into one of the worst injuries I have ever had. What I appreciated the most was our efforts as a team to exhaust all options of pain management and PT before coming to the decision that no relief is in sight without surgery. I had already been referred to Dr. G’s office by other friends and patients so I’m very comfortable moving forward with Dr. Ghosh and his team.
Former Patient
I was referred to Dr. Ghosh by my corporate physician. She had heard good things about Dr. Ghosh. I went to several other neurosurgeons. They were all excellent but I just liked Dr. Ghosh’s confidence and frank manner. My surgery was quick and the result was excellent. My recovery time was minimal. The incision, with a little more time will be minimal and not noticeable. The pain I have felt for a long time is gone. I’ve noticed that others feel that Dr. Ghosh and Amanda did not spend enough quality time with them. My time with them was brief. I don’t need alot of hugs and hand holding. I just needed them to provide me with the information I needed to make decisions, which they did to my satisfaction. They are seeing alot of patients. I don’t think it would be fair to others if Dr. Ghosh and Amanda had to spend several hours caring for my psychological needs when all they really needed to do is fix my neck. Amanda is truly capable. I had an issue late on a holiday night. I called. They transferred me to her even though she was at a social event. I explained to her my concerns. She told me what to expect and under what circumstances to come back to the office.For those who felt abandoned and that they didn’t get enough time, you might find other surgeons even more unavailable. Dr. Ghosh stated he was starting to take less patients to try and spend a little more time with each patient. I hope he doesn’t. It won’t be fair to the people who won’t benefit from his talents. A special thank you to Dr. Ghosh and his team.
Former Patient
Meet Edith
Edith Smith
Director of Operations

Edith was born in Budapest, Hungary and immigrated to Los Angeles, CA as a small child.  She later received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego in 1996. From 1997 to 2002, she worked as a Program Manager at Qualcomm, during which time she also obtained a Certificate in Project Management from the University of San Diego. Edith took some time off to start her family but remained active in her volunteer efforts supporting Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary, where she co-chaired nine large fundraising events and served on the Board of Directors for 5 years. During her time at Rady Children’s, Edith became passionate about healthcare and neurosurgery in particular when her daughter became a neurosurgical patient at Radys. Edith joined Senta Neurosurgery’s team supporting Dr. Sanjay Ghosh’s practice in 2019. Given her personal experiences, Edith knows that getting a referral to neurosurgery is a stressful, life altering event, so she truly appreciates being part of the patient care process for Dr. Ghosh’s patients.

When not at work, Edith enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, cooking, and entertaining.

Meet Melissa
Melissa Padilla
Surgery Coordinator

Melissa has an Associate of Science Degree in Medical Office Administration. She has worked in healthcare for over 25 years. She started out working in a radiology department processing film and scheduling exams. Melissa joined Dr. Ghosh’s team in 2003 and uses her skills and experience to schedule Dr. Ghosh’s patients for surgery.  She is a fierce advocate for our patients throughout the entire prior authorization and scheduling process, and her goal is to make the scheduling of our patients’ surgeries organized and stress free so that our patients can focus on healing.

Meet Deborah
Deborah Updike
M.M.S, M.S., PA-C

Deborah is a California native. She attended American University in Washington, DC graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science and Environmental Studies. She was a college athlete, playing NCAA D1 volleyball all four years. She then attended California State University, Long Beach where she received a Masters of Marine Science in Shark Reproductive Physiology. During her first masters degree, she began transitioning into medicine and went on to receive her Master of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant studies at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. Deborah served as class Vice President. She graduated in 2017 and has been working at Senta Neurosurgery ever since. Deborah is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.

Meet Edith
Edith Smith
Director of Operations

Edith was born in Budapest, Hungary and immigrated to Los Angeles, CA as a small child.  She later received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego in 1996. From 1997 to 2002, she worked as a Program Manager at Qualcomm, during which time she also obtained a Certificate in Project Management from the University of San Diego. Edith took some time off to start her family but remained active in her volunteer efforts supporting Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary, where she co-chaired nine large fundraising events and served on the Board of Directors for 5 years. During her time at Rady Children’s, Edith became passionate about healthcare and neurosurgery in particular when her daughter became a neurosurgical patient at Radys. Edith joined Senta Neurosurgery’s team supporting Dr. Sanjay Ghosh’s practice in 2019. Given her personal experiences, Edith knows that getting a referral to neurosurgery is a stressful, life altering event, so she truly appreciates being part of the patient care process for Dr. Ghosh’s patients.

When not at work, Edith enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, cooking, and entertaining.

Meet Felix
Felix Regala
MPAP, PA-C

Felix was born and raised in Abilene, Texas where he graduated from Abilene High School in 2001. He was honored with the Chuck and Doris Moser Scholarship for his accomplishments as a varsity athlete in baseball and his excellence in academics and community service. He then attended Baylor University where he graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Felix then spent a couple of years working in the laboratory at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and Johnson & Johnson. He then went on to the Keck School of Medicine at University of Southern California to obtain his Master of Physician Assistant Practice degree. Felix graduated from physician assistant school in 2010. While pursuing his PA degree at USC, Felix served as class president and spent time training in neurosurgery and orthopedic spine.  Felix has been a PA with Dr. Ghosh since May 2011.

Felix enjoys being active, including playing basketball, surfing, snowboarding, golfing, and exercising. Felix is also a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the California Academy of Physician Assistants.

Meet Amanda
Amanda W. Gumbert
M.M.S, PA-C

Amanda received her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology at San Diego State University in 2002. She worked as an Exercise Physiologist at the Cardiac Treatment Center at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla before going to PA School. Amanda graduated from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona with a Master of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant studies in 2005. She began working for Dr. Ghosh in January 2006 working as the senior Physician Assistant and manager of the PAs.   Amanda has spoken at the national level at the AAPA conference on various neurosurgical topics. She is highly committed to the future Physician Assistants and frequently has students shadow her and acts as a PA student preceptor. She is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Association of Neurosurgical Physician Assistants, and The San Diego Society of Physician Assistants.  Amanda is honored to be a finalist for San Diego Magazine’s Woman of the Year— 2025 Healthcare Pioneer.

When not working, Amanda enjoys hiking, mountain biking, stand up paddle boarding, snowboarding, playing with her dogs and spending time with her family.

San Diego Magazine’s Celebrating Women
2025 Healthcare Pioneer Finalist