Patient Stories
Valentino Harris
Professional Body Builder
Join Valentino Harris as he shares his inspirational story of overcoming a seven-year-old chronic pectoralis major tendon tear. After living with the challenges of this injury, Valentino underwent a groundbreaking surgery with Dr. Steve Mora, an orthopedic surgeon and the pioneer behind the PecFlexFix™ Grafting Technique. This is more than just a surgery story—it’s about resilience, innovation, and the power of never giving up on recovery. If you’re facing similar challenges, let Valentino’s journey inspire you to take the next step.
TJ Dillashaw
UFC Champ
UFC Champion TJ Dillashaw discusses his patient experience with Dr. Mora. Dr. Mora is an Orange County Orthopedic Surgeon who specializes in sports trauma. He’s been taking care of injured athletes for more than 20 years. He uses both nonsurgical and surgical treatments to help patients recover from injury and return to the sport they love.
Michael Bisping
UFC Hall of Fame Fighter
UFC middleweight fighter Michael Bisping had been managing a torn posterior cruciate ligament for six years before a meniscus tear, and two pieces of loose cartilage brought his left knee to a breaking point — locking up, causing significant pain, and threatening his ability to compete. After seeing Dr. Mora's team, he was diagnosed quickly, on the operating table within two days, and back on the mat training within four to six weeks. What stood out to Bisping beyond the speed of recovery was Dr. Mora's rare understanding of what combat athletes actually need — not rest and restriction, but a surgeon who recognizes that training is not optional, and who builds the recovery standard around getting fighters back to full capability as fast as biology allows.
Tony “El Cucuy” Ferguson
UFC Pro Fighter
Tony "El Cucuy" Ferguson discusses his arm injury and the successful surgical treatment he received from Dr. Mora. Tony has since recovered and has had multiple wins following his surgical treatment. In this video, he discusses the details of his injury and the steps he took to completely heal and return to the highest level in his sport.
Marlon “Chito” Vera
UFC Pro Fighter
UFC fighter Marlon "Chito" Vera came to Dr. Mora with a bone spur and significant swelling in his right elbow — a serious problem for a fighter whose livelihood depends on his ability to punch. Facing a choice between managing the pain indefinitely or undergoing surgery with an eight-to-ten week recovery window, Vera chose surgery. Despite the stakes — competing in America, fighting in the UFC, everything on the line — he trusted Dr. Mora to get him back.
"Dr. Mora performed a revision surgery for my chronic pec tear. The tear was over 12 years old when initially repaired, and 14 years old (and completely torn again) by the time I saw Dr. Mora. When I saw Dr. Mora, I was in really bad shape physically and my function was impaired to the point where it hurt even to work at a computer or to lay down in bed. I'm about 11 months out from surgery and have gained a tremendous amount of function that I honestly did not think was possible to get back. Surgery was 4/5/23 and the photos/video were taken on 3/11/24. I've seen dozens of orthopedic surgeons over the years and was constantly told I was not a candidate for surgery. My life was falling apart waiting for it to be repaired and luckily Dr. Mora was there to take my call."
— Matthew S
"For something so negative as a torn rotator cuff, what an amazingly positive experience with Dr. Mora! He has quite a reputation as 'the guy you want' when it comes to knee & shoulder surgery in Southern California, just ask the countless MMA athletes he's worked on. From his MRI evaluation to the four-hour surgery, and even his own personal stretching techniques following physical therapy, Dr. Mora knows his stuff! See for yourself at www.YouTube.com/SteveMoraMD. Thanks Dr. Mora for making me pain free, once again!"
— Rock G
"Dr. Mora is a rockstar. I had a very old pectoralis major tear on my right side. I was told this could not be fixed by several other doctors. I found Dr. Mora on the Internet. We did a consultation, an MRI, and finally, surgery. The surgery was flawless. I feel great. Physical therapy is almost completed. The surgery eliminated the chronic pain in my bicep and back from the pec injury. Every day I'm so grateful. I happily paid out of pocket and would do it again without hesitation. If you're considering getting your old pec tear fixed, do it. Mora is a master."
— Randy M
"Dr. Mora is a doctor sent by God. He treated me, and the most amazing part is that I never had to come back — which says everything about how truly excellent he is at his job. Thank you, doctor, for your skill, your care, and your dedication. The world needs more professionals like you. I'm grateful to know you. Wishing you a long life and continued success in helping people."
— Ivan R
"I had shoulder repair surgery (for rotator cuff and labral tears) by Dr. Mora. I knew after he plated my sons broken collar bone that he was wonderful but then my opinion was solidified when he did my surgery. It's been three months since my surgery and today I can say that I am pain free and well into recovery. I didn't do physical therapy, but I did watch Dr. Mora's videos on YouTube and did the exercises religiously. Dr. Mora stressed to me how important it was to start moving my shoulder ASAP and he was sooo right. Friends that have had this surgery (by different surgeons) are shocked at my progress. I can't recommend Dr. Mora enough, he's amazing!...Before surgery I couldn't lift my left arm up further than my chest without excruciating pain and I couldn't put my hand on my waist either! Total success but YOU have to put in the work too! THANK YOU, Dr. Mora!"
— Bobb
"Hands down, best orthopedic surgeon in Southern California! I was referred to Dr. Mora after sustaining a serious Lisfranc foot injury. Unlike most doctors who usually suggest surgery right off the bat (because it means $$$$$), Dr. Mora was willing to "wait and see" if the injury would heal without surgery. Unfortunately, it was determined that my injury would require surgery (a couple of screws). I consider myself to be physically active - In fact, I train and fight in Muay Thai Kickboxing, a combat sport. I was devastated to learn that post-surgery I would be on crutches for about 8 weeks and subsequently would need surgery to remove the screws. Approximately six weeks after the second surgery, I was released to start training again. After an eight-week fight camp, I had my comeback fight where I won via unanimous decision. I had no issues with my foot. Thank you to Dr. Mora and his caring staff for helping me "get back on my feet." They are extremely caring and were very flexible in scheduling my appointments. Dr. Mora is one of the top orthopedic surgeons in Orange County so definitely call ahead to make an appointment. You won't be disappointed!"
— Marie AK C
"I got an ACL reconstruction with Dr Mora. He is by far the best doctor that has ever treated me. He not only provides elite treatment. He also educates you along the way. I believe that his knowledge sharing has made my recovery much better. I am still a recovering patient, and I am confident that I will be running soon."
— Heriberto M