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Dr. J Stephen Appleton, MD

Dr. J Stephen Appleton, MD

Orthopedic Surgery*

Dr. J Stephen Appleton, MD is an orthopedic surgeon in Dallas, TX. He is affiliated with medical facilities Medical City Frisco and Medical City Dallas. He is accepting new patients.

4.4 Star Rating
Based on 52 reviews 4.4 Star Rating (52 reviews)

Locations

Texas Joint Institute - Dallas

Texas Joint Institute - Dallas12228 N Central Expy Ste 410 Dallas, TX 75243
1

Texas Joint Institute - Frisco

Texas Joint Institute - Frisco5575 Frisco Square Blvd Ste 530 Frisco, TX 75034
2

Hospital Highlight

Dr. Appleton is affiliated with Medical City Dallas Dallas, a highly rated and top awarded hospital for orthopedic surgery.

At a Glance

  • Explains Conditions WellPatients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Practices at Top HospitalAmerica’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement Award™ See hospitals
  • Hospital SatisfactionPatients said they were highly satisfied at this doctor's hospital. See hospitals

More Orthopedic Surgery Specialists at Medical City Frisco

Experience Check

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Dr. Appleton's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Appleton

4.4
52 ratings, 32 with a written review
5 star
83%
83%
4 star
4%
4%
3 star
0%
0%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
13%
13%

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The best orthopedic surgeon
Dr. Appleton took the time to explain my condition in simple terms and answered all my questions without rushing me. I left the first appointment feeling confident and informed. He was punctual, kind, and made me feel at ease. He treated me with respect and was attentive throughout the consultation.Dr. Appleton diagnosed my condition correctly, and the treatment plan worked perfectly. I’m now pain-free. It was easy to schedule appointments with Dr. Appleton, and the office followed up quickly to confirm everything. I also appreciated how quickly I got a response to my follow-up questions.Dr. Appleton made me feel like a person, not just a patient. He and the staff were empathetic, understanding, and made sure I was comfortable throughout the exam(s) and surgery.The clinic was clean and well-organized. The staff were friendly and efficient, making the entire experience seamless.After months of pain, Dr. Appleton’s treatment worked wonders.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Scott Winterbottom – Jan 23, 2025
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Dr. Appleton has done 2 hips and a knee on me the past 5 years. I owned a gym and was a trainer. I have many surgeons. Dr. Appleton is #1. Do yourself a favor and pick Dr. Appleton.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Randy Edwards in Royse City, Texas – Jun 15, 2024
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Excellent surgeon
Great doctor: excellent surgeon; his staff works together beautifully to the patient’s benefit. I’ve had both knees done (and they were both a mess!) with beautiful results. No hesitation in recommending him.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Grateful Patient – May 22, 2024
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Great experience from beginning the end !
I choose Dr Appleton and I am very happy with the results from my surgery. I knew opon meeting him the first time that I had confidence in him as my surgeon. I had my hip replaced and went home the same day. Other than the soreness from my surgery which took a couple weeks to get better I was no longer suffering from. The pain which was causing me to limp around for the previous two years. Thank you Dr Appleton and your entire staff !Kevin Eikermann
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Great Experience! – Apr 12, 2024
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Dr A is that rare surgeon who treats you like family. He has done multiple joint replacements for me and I can highly recommend him. The office staff are fantastic!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Janice in Grand Prairie – Apr 09, 2024
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Appleton is the Best
What I like most about Dr Appleton is that he does not guess about what is causing your problem. He tries to rule out things that may be causing the problem until he finds the real cause. Most doctors just give their opinion and prescribe some medicine. Dr Appleton replaced one of my hips in 2018 and I have not had any problems. The surgery went great and recoperation time was fairly short. When Dr Appleton left BSandW I followed him to his new office. You can't go wrong with Dr Appleton.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
JLR – Feb 02, 2024
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Excellent surgeon! He did my hip replacement on June 29th 2023 with great result. I’ve scheduled another hip replacement with him (for the other hip) since the first one turned out so well. Anna M.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Anna Majer – Oct 07, 2023
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Amazing Surgeon!
First if all I love his bedside manner - very professional with humor mixed in! I saw him for several visits before we decided that surgery would be a good option! I had total hip replacement 6-6-2023; so I am in the process of healing! But I expect a great recovery..already better 4 days out! He knows how to put his patients at ease!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Betty – Jun 10, 2023
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Ask Questions
Dr. Appleton replaced my right hip 2 years ago. My hip is fine but I still have dropfoot in my right foot due to injury to my sciatic nerve that occurred during the surgery. The possibility of nerve damage is in the very fine print at the bottom of the page, but no one tells you exactly what that looks like. My foot is paralyzed and I still have pain, which is now considered CRPS (chronic regional pain syndrome). I've spent the last 2 years going from appointment to appointment trying to find relief for the pain, getting fitted for orthotics (which break frequently) and a host of other time consuming appointments, trying to regain my life. I would ask Dr. Appleton 2 questions: 1. How many of his patients have experienced dropfoot of this duration or longer and 2. Why is he still performing posterior hip replacements as opposed to anterior when anterior is considered less risky than posterior?
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Apr 26, 2023
I sincerely apologize to this patient. This... Read More
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He is knowledgeable, excellent personality
The office staff are helpful, always answers questions. Dr. Appleton always on time. Quick to explain any questions. I recommend him to friends and family.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Apr 20, 2023
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Great, energetic, knowledgeable doctor
I have been going to Dr. Appleton for a number of years. From the first visit, he has never been pushy with saying I needed surgery right away. He gave me options. He has lots of energy, smiles a lot and really makes me feel at ease. After getting injections in my knee for years I was finally ready for a partial knee replacement in 2021. Dr Appleton performed this surgery. My knee has really done great. I had been getting injections in my left hip joint for about 4 or 5 years. It is now bone on bone and the injections are not working anymore. Again, Dr Appleton was not pushing me to have surgery. He said when I was ready, I would let him know. Yesterday I scheduled my hip surgery with him. I had a list of questions, which he answered. He didn't rush the visit. I really like his positive and trustworthy character. He makes me feel very comfortable about my decision. I would highly recommend Dr. Appton.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Apr 01, 2023
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I would recommend Dr. Appleton to everyone.
My experience with Dr. Appleton was always very pleasant, and he was forever patient and kind as he gave me advice regarding my operation for my knee. He listened to me as I asked him questions. Dr. Appleton made my experience with him one that I know that I will never regret.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Delores Allen – Feb 14, 2023
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Quick and easy
Appreciated the efficiency of the operation and follow up. There was very little delay to see the doctor and he was concise with his explanations. The procedure ran smoothly and I am happy with the results.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mark Stewart – Oct 19, 2022
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Kind & professional
I was recommended Dr Appleton by my primary who recent underwent knee replacement! I found him to be very kind ,professional , put you at ease & listen unlike some who just want to do surgery right away!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
Helpful
Dartha Garrett – Oct 04, 2022
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Great Physician and Very Caring.
He has put shots in my knees. Does a great job.
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Jane Gordon – Sep 29, 2022
Dr. Appleton's Reply –
Thank you for your feedback!
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I have had both hips replaced this year by Dr Appleton. I was bad off - I had been waiting until I was 65(Medicare) so the surgeries weren't optional any more. From the first visit Dr Appleton listened to me and made me as confident as he was that he could help me. Making appointments was no problem. The wait time in the office has been minimal. They are prompt and expedient. The surgery itself, which was a little scary, was honestly a breeze. Both times! Six months later, after both hips have been replaced, which is a pretty big deal, and after his required physical therapy, I'm walking on my own, minimal pain. I have my life back. Not only is Dr Appleton awesome, but Casey, Rashida and his entire staff are the best. They are all prompt, attentive, and they just take care of you. I give them the highest of recommendations.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Lee Anne Parmley Hays – Aug 24, 2022
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Dr. Appleton is an excellent surgeon, caring and thoughtful in office visits. His staff is friendly and informed. I have had two hip replacements done by Dr. Appleton, each went flawlessly. He has my complete trust and I wholeheartedly recommend him!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Diane Harris – Feb 23, 2022
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Dr. Appleton is a very knowledgeable and caring doctor. He did a partial knee replacement on my right knee and I am very pleased with the results of that surgery. Further, he takes time to answer questions and I never fill rushed when I have an appointment with him. Staff is very courteous and polite and return telephone calls promptly.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Nancy Barnett – Jun 01, 2021
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Staff was nice and didn’t have to wait to see Dr,Appleton,I enjoyed all visits with Dr Appleton . He’s a man that knows his craft .$
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Goldyn Robertson son – May 25, 2021
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Dr Appleton is wonderful! He immediately makes you feel comfortable with him by displaying outstanding knowledge and experience in his practice and process. He possesses a winning bedside manner and reputation which clearly speak to a patient about his excellent ability. Dr. Appleton is one of the BEST!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Carolyn Willis – May 02, 2021
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About Me

Watch Dr. Appleton's Video

care philosophy

As an Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in treating conditions of the hip and knee, I do my utmost to return patients to an active, pain free lifestyle. I am fellowship trained in Adult Reconstruction, specializing in total hip and knee replacements...read more

biography

Dr. Stephen Appleton is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Texas Joint Institute in Dallas and Frisco who specializes in the treatment of injuries and disorders of the hip and knee. He performs primary and revision hip and knee joint replacement...read more
  • Orthopedic Surgery

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Duke University Medical Center

    Fellowship Hospital
  • Yale Grad School

    Residency Hospital
  • Dallas

    Medical School
  • Southern Methodist University

    Medical School
  • Texas

    Medical School
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.
  • English

  • Spanish

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Medical City Frisco

    5500 Frisco Square Blvd
    Frisco, TX 75034
    Recipient of 30
    hospital awards

    America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement Award™ (2025)

    Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

    America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

    View all awards
  • Medical City Dallas

    7777 Forest Ln
    Dallas, TX 75230
    Recipient of 23
    hospital awards

    America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Excellence Award™ (2025)

    Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

    America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    83%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    4% lower than the national average

    78%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well
    View all patient feedback
Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality