James Bowen
(512) 555-0147Request an Appointment

Brain and spine care you can trust, from a neurosurgeon who listens

Board-certified neurosurgeon in Austin with 18 years of experience and more than 4,000 procedures — focused on the least-invasive path back to the life you want.

Request an Appointment

About Dr. Bowen

Dr. James Bowen is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon specializing in minimally invasive brain and spine surgery. For nearly two decades he has helped patients across Central Texas move past chronic pain and neurological conditions and get back to the things they love. His approach is simple: an accurate diagnosis first, then the least-invasive treatment that can actually solve the problem. Many of the patients he sees never need an operation at all — and for those who do, he favors techniques that mean smaller incisions, less time in the hospital, and a faster recovery. Dr. Bowen trained at some of the most respected programs in the country and has performed more than 4,000 procedures. His research on minimally invasive spine surgery has helped shape how the procedure is taught to the next generation of surgeons. Above all, he believes patients deserve a clear explanation, honest options, and a plan built around their goals — not a rushed appointment.

Services

Minimally invasive spine surgery

Smaller incisions, less muscle disruption, and a faster recovery than traditional open surgery.

Brain & skull base tumors

Precise removal guided by modern intraoperative imaging and navigation.

Cerebrovascular surgery

Treatment for aneurysms, AVMs, and other vascular conditions of the brain.

Spinal fusion & disc repair

Modern techniques to stabilize the spine and relieve nerve compression.

Trigeminal neuralgia

Microvascular and minimally invasive options for facial nerve pain.

Second opinions

A clear, unhurried review of your imaging and options before any decision.

Conditions we treat

Herniated disc

Spinal stenosis

Sciatica

Brain tumors

Cervical radiculopathy

Trigeminal neuralgia

Degenerative disc disease

Spondylolisthesis

Brain aneurysm

Chronic back & neck pain

4,000+
Procedures
18
Years of experience
98%
Patient satisfaction

Education & training

  1. 1997–2001
    B.S., Biology — Undergraduate
    Stanford University
  2. 2001–2005
    Doctor of Medicine (MD)
    Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
  3. 2005–2011
    Residency, Neurological Surgery
    Barrow Neurological Institute
  4. 2011–2012
    Fellowship, Complex & Minimally Invasive Spine
    University of California, San Francisco
  5. 2013
    Board Certified — Diplomate
    American Board of Neurological Surgery

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral to be seen?
No — you can book a consultation directly with our office, though we’re happy to coordinate with your primary care doctor.
Will I definitely need surgery?
Not necessarily. Many conditions improve with non-surgical care, and Dr. Bowen always starts with the least-invasive option that can work.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most major plans. Call our office and we’ll verify your coverage before your visit.
How long is recovery after minimally invasive spine surgery?
It varies by procedure, but many patients go home the same or next day and return to light activity within a couple of weeks.
Can I get a second opinion?
Absolutely. Bring your imaging and records and Dr. Bowen will give you an honest review of your options.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
A photo ID, your insurance card, a list of medications, and any recent MRI or CT imaging on a disc or via your portal.

Request an appointment

Request an Appointment
Beacon theme preview — Doctorly