Dr. Erik G. Lough | MD, FACS
Where Compassionate Care Meets
Surgical Excellence
Dr. Lough excels in his surgical expertise and his ability to connect with his patients compassionately. He specializes in Weight Loss Surgery, Hiatal Hernia Repair, and Acid Reflux/Heartburn Resolution in Austin, Texas, and is a devoted ally on your journey toward restored health and vitality. With an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Lough stands out for his ability to forge genuine connections with patients from all walks of life. They seek his guidance and support to reclaim their well-being, knowing they are in capable and impassioned hands.
At the core of Dr. Lough’s practice is a commitment to excellence in character, compassion, surgical knowledge, and patient accessibility. He understands the importance of trust in the patient-surgeon relationship and honors that trust by prioritizing the best interests of his patients above all else. For Dr. Lough, recommending the optimal course of action—even if it means advising against surgery—is a testament to his dedication to patient care.
Communication is key in Dr. Lough’s approach. He believes in open dialogue with his patients, discussing their conditions and surgical plans and addressing any concerns they may have before and after surgery. This ensures that patients feel informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way.
“What is best for the patient comes first,
and I make healthcare decisions for my patient
as if they are a member of my family – this is my core belief,
and I practice it every day.”
~ Dr. Erik Lough
“What is best for the patient comes first, and I make healthcare decisions for my patient as if they are a member of my family – this is my core belief, and I practice it every day.”
~ Dr. Erik Lough</em
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CAPITAL SURGEONS GROUP
General & Bariatric Surgeon
Dr. Erik G. Lough
With expertise in a wide range of state-of-the-art minimally invasive surgeries, including advanced laparoscopic and robotic procedures, Dr. Lough offers comprehensive solutions for various conditions, from hernias to gastrointestinal disorders and bariatric surgery. As a Capital Surgeons Group physician, he sees patients at the North Austin office.
Outside of the operating room, Dr. Lough cherishes spending time with his wife and five children, indulging in his passions for mountain biking, and enjoying live music in Austin.
Passionate About Making a Difference
Passionate About
Making a Difference
“I believe in delivering surgical excellence not just with precision and expertise, but also with genuine compassion and understanding. Every interaction with my patients is a chance to truly impact their lives, guiding them toward optimal health outcomes and empowering them to embrace life with renewed vigor. My dedication to surgical mastery and heartfelt patient care propels me forward each day, ensuring that I not only meet but exceed expectations, one surgery, and one life-changing moment at a time.”
~ Dr. Erik Lough
Inspired by
Collaboration
Inspired by
Collaboration
True Excellence and Innovation Arises from
Purpose-Driven Collaboration
Private Practice and Surgeon Partner
Procedures
Specialized Surgery Expertise
Dr. Lough specializes in various minimally invasive surgical procedures and techniques to expedite recovery. While ensuring swift recuperation and consistently achieving exceptional results, he remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing and refining patient care. These state-of-the-art procedures utilize robotic assistance and laparoscopic technology.
Gastric Sleeve • Gastric Bypass • Duodenal Switch
Hiatal Hernia Repair • LINX Implant • Fundoplication
Robotic surgery is state-of-the-art advanced laparoscopic general surgery
Expert Surgeon
Specializing in:
- Weight Loss Surgeries
- Hiatal Hernias
- Acid Reflux / Heartburn
Compassionate Patient Care
- Personalized Attention
Tailored care approach to your needs, ensuring you feel heard, respected, and supported throughout your journey. - Holistic Wellness
Dr. Lough prioritizes your holistic well-being, addressing not only your physical health but also your emotional and psychological needs to promote healing and recovery.
Expert Surgeon Specializing in:
- Weight Loss Surgeries
- Hiatal Hernias
- Acid Reflux / Heartburn
Compassionate Patient Care
- Personalized Attention
Tailored care approach to your needs, ensuring you feel heard, respected, and supported throughout your journey. - Holistic Wellness
Dr. Lough prioritizes your holistic well-being, addressing not only your physical health but also your emotional and psychological needs to promote healing and recovery.
Advanced Surgery
Laparoscopic / Robotic Surgery
At my practice, I prioritize your comfort, safety, and successful recovery. With advanced surgical techniques like laparoscopy and robotic surgery, we’re committed to delivering exceptional care that transforms your surgical experience. Say hello to less pain, faster recovery, and precision-driven outcomes. Schedule your consultation today to discover how we can help you.
Advanced techniques such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery revolutionize patient care. Here’s how you benefit:
Minimized Discomfort and Faster Recovery
Experience minimal discomfort with small incisions that result in less pain compared to traditional surgery. With Dr. Lough’s approach, you can go home the same day of the procedure, often without the need for narcotic pain medication. Say goodbye to extended hospital stays and hello to a quicker return to your daily activities.
Early Mobility and Enhanced Healing
Bid farewell to prolonged bed rest as our advanced surgical techniques promote early movement and ambulation. Get back on your feet sooner, accelerating your recovery process and reducing the risk of complications associated with immobility. Dr. Lough’s robotic surgical procedures empower you to resume your routine activities sooner, getting you back to the life you love.
Precision and Clarity for Optimal Outcomes
Experience unparalleled precision and clarity with robotic surgery’s ultra-high-definition camera and advanced instrumentation. Dr. Lough leverages this cutting-edge technology to achieve nearly perfect resolution, providing a comprehensive view of the procedure. With this level of detail, he can delicately work on tissues and organs, ensuring optimal outcomes for each patient.
Advanced Surgery
Laparoscopic / Robotic Surgery
At my practice, I prioritize your comfort, safety, and successful recovery. With advanced surgical techniques like laparoscopy and robotic surgery, we’re committed to delivering exceptional care that transforms your surgical experience. Say hello to less pain, faster recovery, and precision-driven outcomes. Schedule your consultation today to discover how we can help you.
Advanced techniques such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery revolutionize patient care. Here’s how you benefit:
Minimized Discomfort and Faster Recovery
Experience minimal discomfort with small incisions that result in less pain compared to traditional surgery. With Dr. Lough’s approach, you can go home the same day of the procedure, often without the need for narcotic pain medication. Say goodbye to extended hospital stays and hello to a quicker return to your daily activities.
Early Mobility and Enhanced Healing
Bid farewell to prolonged bed rest as our advanced surgical techniques promote early movement and ambulation. Get back on your feet sooner, accelerating your recovery process and reducing the risk of complications associated with immobility. Dr. Lough’s robotic surgical procedures empower you to resume your routine activities sooner, getting you back to the life you love.
Precision and Clarity for Optimal Outcomes
Experience unparalleled precision and clarity with robotic surgery’s ultra-high-definition camera and advanced instrumentation. Dr. Lough leverages this cutting-edge technology to achieve nearly perfect resolution, providing a comprehensive view of the procedure. With this level of detail, he can delicately work on tissues and organs, ensuring optimal outcomes for each patient.
Gastric Sleeve • Gastric Bypass • Duodenal Switch
Hiatal Hernia Repair • LINX Implant • Fundoplication
Robotic surgery is state-of-the-art advanced laparoscopic general surgery
Advanced Specialized Surgery Expertise
Dr. Lough specializes in a comprehensive array of cutting-edge minimally invasive surgical techniques designed to expedite recovery. While ensuring swift recuperations and consistently achieving exceptional results, he remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing and refining patient care. These state-of-the-art procedures utilize robotic assistance and laparoscopic technology.
Weight Loss Surgery
A Path to a Healthier, Happier You
For many individuals, achieving lasting weight loss can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Diet and exercise, while crucial for overall health, may not always be enough. This is where bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, steps in as a powerful tool for those struggling with obesity.
Understanding Bariatric Surgery Procedures
Bariatric surgery encompasses a range of procedures designed to promote significant and sustainable weight loss. Here at Dr. Lough’s practice, we offer three laparoscopic (minimally invasive) weight loss surgery options:
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: This procedure restricts the stomach size, leading to decreased food intake and hormonal changes that promote satiety.
- Gastric Bypass: This surgery reroutes the digestive system, creating a smaller pouch to hold food and bypassing a portion of the small intestine.
- Duodenal Switch (SADI): This complex procedure combines elements of sleeve gastrectomy and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, resulting in significant weight loss and improved metabolic function.
Long-Term Weight Loss Solutions
Bariatric surgery offers numerous benefits beyond just the numbers on the scale. Here are some of the most compelling advantages:
- Significant and Sustained Weight Loss: Studies show that bariatric surgery can lead to a weight loss of 50% or more of excess body weight, with long-term success rates exceeding traditional weight loss methods.
- Improved Health Outcomes: Bariatric surgery can significantly improve or even resolve obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and joint pain.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Weight loss can boost your energy levels, increase mobility, and improve your overall sense of well-being. You may find yourself engaging in activities you once thought impossible.
- Long-Term Health Benefits: By reducing obesity and its associated health risks, bariatric surgery can significantly increase your life expectancy and overall health.
Preparing for Weight Loss Surgery
Success with bariatric surgery hinges on proper preparation. Here are some key steps to take before undergoing surgery:
- Consultation with a Healthcare Professional: Discuss your weight loss goals and medical history with Dr. Lough to determine if bariatric surgery is the right choice for you.
- Researching Different Surgeries: Familiarize yourself with the available procedures, their potential risks and benefits, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
- Dietary and Lifestyle Changes: You may be required to make pre-operative dietary changes to prepare your body for surgery and demonstrate your commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
- Building a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive family, friends, and a healthcare team to guide you through your weight loss journey.
Am I a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Several factors determine your suitability for bariatric surgery. Dr. Lough will consider your:
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
- History of weight loss attempts
- Overall health status
- Psychological well-being
- Commitment to long-term lifestyle changes
Exploring the Different Types of Bariatric Surgery
Dr. Lough’s practice offers a comprehensive range of bariatric procedures to cater to individual needs. From sleeve gastrectomy to gastric bypass and SADI surgery, we provide detailed information on each procedure to help you make an informed decision.
Bariatric Revision Surgery and Adjustable Gastric Band Removal
If you’ve previously undergone bariatric surgery and are experiencing complications or require adjustments, Dr. Lough offers revision surgery and adjustable gastric band removal procedures.
Embrace a Healthier and Happier You
Don’t let weight hold you back from experiencing life to the fullest. Bariatric surgery can be the key to unlocking a healthier, happier you. Contact Dr. Lough, MD, FACS today to schedule a consultation and discuss your weight loss goals.
Acid Reflux / Heartburn
Finding Lasting Relief from Acid Reflux
Heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus, can be a major disruption to your daily life. When medication fails to provide lasting relief, surgery emerges as a viable and effective option to permanently address Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Understanding Acid Reflux and Hiatal Hernia
Chronic acid reflux, medically known as GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular valve at the base of the esophagus, weakens or malfunctions. This allows stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and the characteristic burning sensation.
Hiatal hernia, a condition where a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm (the muscle separating the chest from the abdomen), can contribute to GERD by further weakening the LES.
Why Choose Surgery for Chronic GERD?
Many patients with GERD find that medication, while initially helpful, loses effectiveness over time. They may still experience:
- Persistent heartburn: Despite taking medications regularly, even at increased doses.
- Acid regurgitation: The unpleasant sensation of stomach contents rising into the throat or mouth.
- Belching and dry cough: Discomforting side effects caused by reflux.
- Disrupted sleep: Nighttime regurgitation can lead to poor sleep quality and fatigue.
Surgery offers a long-term solution by:
- Eliminating heartburn and regurgitation: Providing lasting relief from these bothersome symptoms.
- Enhancing sleep quality: Allowing for undisturbed sleep and improved overall well-being.
- Reducing medication dependence: Freeing you from the need for daily medication and its potential side effects.
- Dietary freedom: Enabling you to enjoy a wider range of foods without the fear of triggering symptoms.
Surgical Options for Long-Term Relief
Dr. Lough utilize minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic techniques for anti-reflux surgery. Here are some of the standard procedures to treat GERD:
- Hiatal Hernia Repair: This procedure strengthens the diaphragm opening, preventing the stomach from herniating.
- Nissen or Toupet Fundoplication: This technique wraps the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus to reinforce the valve and prevent reflux.
- LINX Reflux Management System: A small ring of magnetic beads is placed around the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to strengthen it and prevent acid from flowing back up.
These procedures provide:
- Surgical Precision: Minimally invasive techniques offer greater accuracy and control.
- Faster Recovery: Laparoscopic and robotic surgeries typically allow same-day discharge in most cases.
Dr. Lough’s Patient-Centric Approach
Dr. Lough and his team are dedicated to providing exceptional care for patients with GERD. They will thoroughly discuss your condition, explain the benefits and risks of each surgical option, and tailor a treatment plan to your individual needs and preferences.
Take Control of Your Life: Schedule a Consultation Today
If chronic GERD is impacting your quality of life, Dr. Lough, MD, FACS, can help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and explore the possibility of surgical intervention for lasting relief.
Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery
Advanced Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery
Minimally Invasive Techniques for Faster Recovery
Laparoscopic and robotic surgery have revolutionized the surgical landscape, offering patients a path to faster recovery and improved outcomes. Dr. Lough, MD, FACS, a highly skilled and experienced surgeon, is committed to providing patients with the advantages of these advanced techniques.
What is Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery?
Traditional open surgery often requires large incisions, leading to significant pain and a lengthy recovery period. Laparoscopic and robotic surgery, on the other hand, utilize minimally invasive techniques. During these procedures, Dr. Lough makes only a few small incisions to access the surgical site. A laparoscope, a thin, lighted instrument, is inserted through one incision, allowing Dr. Lough to view the surgical area on a high-definition monitor. Specialized instruments are then inserted through the other incisions to perform the necessary procedures.
The da Vinci® Surgical System
Robotic-assisted surgery takes laparoscopy a step further. The da Vinci® Surgical System provides Dr. Lough with magnified 3D high-definition vision and superior dexterity. The robotic arms translate his hand movements into precise movements of tiny instruments, allowing for unmatched control and accuracy.
Benefits of Advanced Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery
Patients undergoing advanced laparoscopic or robotic surgery with Dr. Lough can expect to experience several advantages:
- Minimally invasive approach: Smaller incisions translate to less pain and faster healing.
- Reduced risk of complications: Minimally invasive techniques can lead to lower infection rates and faster recovery.
- Improved cosmetic outcomes: Smaller incisions result in less noticeable scarring.
- Shorter hospital stays: Many procedures can now be performed on an outpatient basis or require a shorter hospital stay.
- Quicker return to normal activities: Faster recovery times allow patients to get back to their daily lives sooner.
Procedures Performed by Dr. Lough
Dr. Lough utilizes advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques for a wide range of procedures, including:
- Weight loss surgery
- Inguinal hernia repair
- Ventral hernia repair
- Hiatal hernia repair
- Acid reflux procedures
- Colon resection for cancer or diverticulitis
- Small bowel resection
- Emergency surgery & diagnostic surgery
- Adrenalectomy
- Splenectomy (spleen surgery) & adrenalectomy
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Lough
If you are considering minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Lough can discuss your individual needs and determine if laparoscopy or robotic surgery is the right approach for you. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and explore the possibilities of a faster, easier recovery.
Request an Appointment with Dr. Lough at Capital Surgeons Group
We’re glad you’re considering Dr. Lough for your healthcare needs. This form allows you to request an appointment online, but please be aware that it is a request only. Our team will contact you within 24 to 48 business hours to confirm a date and time.