How Capital Surgeons Group is Redefining General Surgery

Surgery can be stressful — large incisions, extended hospital stays, and long recoveries can feel overwhelming. Capital Surgeons Group is changing that. Our expert surgeons combine decades of experience with advanced robotic, laparoscopic, and endoscopic techniques to make surgery safer, less invasive, and easier on patients’ lives.

Whenever possible, we perform minimally invasive procedures in 70–85% of eligible cases, helping patients experience smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and lower complication rates. Peer-reviewed studies show that minimally invasive surgery reduces post-operative pain, lowers infection risk, and shortens hospital stays compared with traditional open surgery. When open surgery is necessary, our team ensures the safest, most effective approach — because at Capital Surgeons Group, your safety and outcomes always come first.

  • 70–85% of eligible cases are performed minimally invasively
  • Smaller incisions – less pain, faster recovery, lower complication rates
  • Proven outcomes backed by peer-reviewed studies

Robotic Hernia Surgery

Precision Where It Matters Most

Hernias can be uncomfortable and even painful, but proper repair restores comfort and prevents serious complications like bowel obstruction. Robotic hernia surgery offers enhanced precision, 3D visualization, and improved suturing for complex or recurrent hernias.

  • Extremely low recurrence rates, often under 1% in expert hands
  • Beneficial for larger, bilateral, or recurrent hernias, or patients with prior abdominal surgeries
  • Patients experience less post-operative pain, faster return to work, and minimal scarring
  • Laparoscopic repair remains safe and effective for simpler hernias

Learn more and schedule a consultation: Robotic Hernia Surgery

Colon, Abdominal & Intestinal Surgery

Advanced Care for Serious Conditions

Conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, and intestinal obstruction require specialized surgical care. Modern minimally invasive and robotic techniques treat these conditions effectively while reducing pain, hospital stays, and recovery time.

  • Minimally invasive colectomy: smaller incisions, reduced pain, shorter hospital stay (2–4 days vs. 5–7 days for open surgery), faster return to activity
  • Oncologic outcomes: complete tumor removal, adequate lymph node retrieval, clear margins comparable or superior to open surgery
  • Enhanced recovery protocols reduce infection, venous thromboembolism, and ileus

Learn more: Colon & Abdominal Surgery Services

GERD & Acid Reflux Surgery

Relief That Lasts

Severe GERD or hiatal hernia can significantly impact quality of life. When medications aren’t enough, surgical options such as laparoscopic fundoplication or hiatal hernia repair can provide lasting relief. Minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques make these procedures safer, precise, and easier to recover from.

  • Most procedures are minimally invasive – smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery
  • Robotic assistance improves precision in complex or redo procedures
  • Many patients resume normal eating and daily activities within 2–4 weeks

Learn more: GERD & Acid Reflux Surgery

Endocrine Surgery

Thyroid, Parathyroid & Adrenal Care

Disorders of the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands require careful surgical management. Minimally invasive techniques reduce recovery time while maintaining precision and safety.

  • Small adrenal tumors often removed laparoscopically – reduced hospital stay
  • Thyroid and parathyroid surgeries performed via small incisions – minimal scarring, preserved nerve function
  • Open surgery reserved for large or malignant tumors for safe, complete removal

Learn more: Endocrine Surgery Services

Gallbladder & Liver Surgery

Modern Techniques for Complex Organs

Diseases of the gallbladder and liver range from gallstones to complex tumors, requiring precise surgical care. Minimally invasive and robotic techniques allow many patients to undergo these procedures safely, with smaller incisions and faster recovery.

  • Laparoscopic cholecystectomy — often outpatient, standard of care
  • Robotic-assisted surgery for challenging cases (severe inflammation, obesity)
  • Minimally invasive liver surgery for select tumors; large or central lesions may require open surgery

Learn more: Gallbladder & Liver Surgery

Breast Disease, Biopsy & Surgery

Safety Meets Cosmetic Care

Breast conditions, benign or malignant, require precision and cosmetic consideration. Minimally invasive and breast-conserving approaches preserve both safety and appearance.

  • Minimally invasive core biopsies for accurate diagnosis
  • Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) whenever feasible
  • Mastectomy with or without reconstruction in partnership with plastic surgeons

Learn more: Breast Surgery Services

Hand, Wrist & Upper Extremity Surgery

Restoring Function. Rebuilding Lives.

Injuries and conditions affecting the hand, wrist, or upper extremity can impact daily life. Endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques allow surgeons to repair these structures effectively.

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, nerve entrapments
  • Fractures and tendon injuries
  • Whenever possible, procedures use small incisions – faster recovery and restored function

Learn more: Hand, Wrist & Upper Extremity Care

Why Minimally Invasive Surgery Matters

Choosing a minimally invasive approach can mean:

  • Smaller incisions – less pain and scarring
  • Shorter hospital stays – many procedures are outpatient
  • Faster recovery – patients return to normal activities sooner
  • Safe, effective outcomes – comparable to traditional open surgery

Our team evaluates each patient individually using advanced imaging, medical history, and comorbidity assessment to determine the safest approach.

Minimally Invasive Surgery vs. Traditional Open Surgery

While open surgery is still necessary in certain complex or emergency situations, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is often the preferred approach.

Aspect Minimally Invasive Surgery Traditional Open Surgery
Incisions Small (0.5–1 cm), usually a few entry points Large incision (6–12 inches)
Pain & Recovery Less pain, faster recovery (days–weeks) More pain, longer recovery (weeks–months)
Hospital Stay Often outpatient or 1–2 days Typically 5–7+ days
Infection Risk Lower Higher
Scarring Minimal Larger, visible
Precision Enhanced via laparoscopic/robotic tech Direct visualization only
Complication Rates Generally lower Higher in older/complex patients

Bottom line: Minimally invasive surgery offers clear benefits in comfort, safety, and recovery. Open surgery remains essential when broader access is required for safety or complete treatment.

Patient-Centered Surgical Consent

Every patient receives comprehensive counseling:

  • Detailed explanation of surgical options (open, laparoscopic, robotic)
  • Discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives
  • Transparency about conversion from minimally invasive to open surgery
  • Ample opportunity for questions and informed decision-making

Understanding your surgery is just as important as the surgery itself.

The Capital Surgeons Group Difference

Capital Surgeons Group combines decades of surgical expertise with the latest technology to provide high-quality, personalized care. From routine procedures like gallbladder removal to advanced robotic hernia repair, you can trust our surgeons to guide you safely through every step.

Surgery doesn’t have to be intimidating — it’s modern, precise, and patient-centered, emphasizing faster recovery, less pain, and better outcomes.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Your journey to safer, less invasive, and more effective surgery begins today. Schedule a consultation with our expert surgeons to explore your options and discover how modern surgical techniques can improve your outcomes.

Request Your Consultation Now

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The Study: Real-World Weight Loss Outcomes

Researchers analyzed data from over 50,000 adults with obesity:

  • 38,545 patients received a GLP-1 medication such as semaglutide or tirzepatide
  • 12,540 patients underwent bariatric surgery, primarily gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy

Key Findings:

  • Surgery patients lost an average of 24% of their body weight over two years — about 58 pounds.
  • GLP-1 patients lost only 5%, (about 12 pounds) in the same timeframe.
  • Even patients who stayed on GLP-1 medications for a full year lost significantly less weight than surgical patients.

“Clinical trials show weight loss between 15% and 21% for GLP-1s, but this study suggests that real-world outcomes are much lower,” said Dr. Avery Brown, lead study author and surgical resident at NYU Langone Health.

Why the Big Difference?

1. Medication Adherence in the Real World

In controlled trials, participants are closely monitored and encouraged to stay on their medication regimen. In reality, up to 70% of patients stop GLP-1 treatment within a year — most often due to:

  • High cost (GLP-1s can cost $1,000+ per month without insurance)
  • Loss of insurance coverage for weight loss treatment
  • Side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or fatigue
  • A Misconceptions — some patients stop once they lose initial weight, believing they no longer need the medication

2. Lack of Comprehensive Support
GLP-1s are sometimes prescribed without a broader weight management program. Success rates increase when these medications are paired with nutrition counseling, behavioral therapy, and regular medical follow-up.

“GLP-1 drugs should be prescribed thoughtfully and with close clinical follow-up. We can’t just hand them out like candy,” says Dr. Karan Chhabra, bariatric surgeon and senior study author.

What Makes Bariatric Surgery More Effective?

Bariatric surgery is more than stomach size reduction — it triggers a metabolic reset. Procedures like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass physically limit food intake and alter gut hormone signaling, producing effects such as:

  • Reduced appetite
  • Improved insulin sensitivity
  • Favorable changes in metabolism that help sustain long-term weight loss

Additional Benefits of Surgery:

  • 20–35% average total body weight loss (some patients achieve 50% or more)
  • High rates of remission or significant improvement in:
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • High blood pressure
    • Sleep apnea
    • High cholesterol
  • Long-term cost savings compared to decades of prescription medication
  • A one-time procedure with durable, decades-long results when combined with healthy habits

Side-by-Side Comparison

To help you see the differences at a glance, here’s how GLP-1 medications stack up against bariatric surgery in the real world:

Feature GLP-1 Medications
(e.g., Wegovy®, Zepbound™)		 Bariatric Surgery
(Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass)
Average Weight Loss – Real World ~5% total body weight
(~12 lbs in 2 years)		 ~24% total body weight
(~58 lbs in 2 years)
Average Weight Loss – Clinical Trials 15–21% with consistent, long-term use 20–35% on average; some patients lose 50% or more
Treatment Type Ongoing weekly injections One-time surgical procedure
Speed of Results Gradual — noticeable in 3–6 months Rapid — most weight lost within first 6–12 months
Durability of Results Maintained only while taking medication Long-lasting metabolic changes that support lifelong results
Impact on Type 2 Diabetes Lowers blood sugar; may reduce medication needs Often leads to full remission and elimination of diabetes medications
Other Health Benefits Can improve blood pressure, cholesterol Frequently resolves or improves sleep apnea, hypertension, cholesterol, and heart health
Common Side Effects / Risks Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue Surgical risks (bleeding, infection, leaks), vitamin/mineral deficiencies
Typical Cost $1,000+ per month without insurance $15,000–$25,000 (often covered by insurance if criteria are met)
Insurance Coverage Limited for weight loss; better for diabetes Commonly covered for BMI ≥40, or ≥35 with serious health conditions
Best Candidates BMI 27–35 without surgical eligibility; those not ready for surgery BMI ≥40, or ≥35 with obesity-related health problems
Maintenance Requirements Long-term or lifelong use for sustained results Lifelong vitamin supplements, follow-up visits, and healthy lifestyle
Best Use Case Early intervention, pre-surgery prep, or post-surgery weight regain Maximum, durable weight loss and major health improvement

GLP-1 Medications Still Have a Role

While the study shows bariatric surgery typically delivers greater and longer-lasting results, GLP-1s remain an important tool in certain scenarios:

  • For patients who don’t qualify for surgery (BMI under 35 without comorbidities)
  • For those who aren’t medically cleared for anesthesia or major surgery
  • As a first step before surgery for patients who prefer a less invasive approach
  • Before surgery to reduce liver size and surgical risks
  • After surgery to help maintain results for those who experience weight regain years later

How to Decide: GLP-1s or Surgery?

At Capital Surgeons Group, we guide patients through this decision with clarity and compassion. We encourage you to consider:

Do You Want to Stop Taking Medications?
Surgery may be the better fit if your goal is to reduce or eliminate long-term prescriptions — not just for weight loss, but for related conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

How Much Weight Do You Need to Lose?
GLP-1s often lead to 30–50 pounds of weight loss, while surgery can result in far greater total body weight reduction, particularly in those with a BMI over 40 or severe obesity-related health issues.

What Preexisting Conditions Do You Have?

  • Acid reflux — GLP-1 drugs may worsen symptoms, while gastric bypass often improves them
  • Diabetes — Both treatments can help, but surgery has higher remission rates
  • Heart disease — Surgery has been shown to lower cardiovascular risk and improve survival

Are You Ready for a Long-Term Commitment?
GLP-1s require ongoing — possibly lifelong — injections to maintain results. Bariatric surgery is a single procedure, but success depends on consistent follow-up care, nutritional supplementation, and a commitment to healthy living.

The Bottom Line: Personalized Care Is the Key

No two patients are alike — and no single treatment works for everyone. The most important step is a comprehensive, evidence-based consultation with a weight loss specialist.

At Capital Surgeons Group, our team of board-certified surgeons, nutritionists, and medical weight loss experts helps you choose the safest and most effective path for lasting results — tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and medical history.

Sources:

Expertise & Skill Matter

Our surgeons are known for providing advanced surgical care, from diagnosis to recovery.

Our private practice has saved countless lives and has enabled countless more to live healthier, happier lives.