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About Our Practice
Welcome to Surgical Associates of Southern Texas
General Surgery, Surgical Oncology and Wound Care in Katy and Sugar Land, TX
A hernia, gallbladder attacks, reflux that medicine no longer controls, a new cancer diagnosis, or a wound that will not heal can leave you with questions about who should treat it and what happens next. Surgical Associates of Southern Texas is a surgical practice that evaluates these problems, explains your options clearly, and provides surgery when it is the right choice for you.
Our practice is led by Dr. Murtaza Shakir, MD, board certified by the American Board of Surgery in General Surgery and Complex General Surgical Oncology. We see patients at two offices, in Katy and Sugar Land, and care for patients from Richmond, Fulshear, Stafford, and across Greater Houston, as well as patients who travel from other parts of Texas and from overseas.
Meet the Surgeon
Dr. Murtaza Shakir, MD, general surgeon and surgical oncologist in Katy and Sugar Land, TX
- Dual board certified in General Surgery and Complex General Surgical Oncology
- Named a Houstonia Top Doctor in General Surgery, 2026 (see listing)
- Highly reviewed: rated 4.9 stars on Google
- Specialized in general surgery, cancer surgery, and wound care, using open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches
Patient Reviews
What Patients Say About Our Practice
Rated 4.9 stars on Google. Real experiences from patients treated in Katy and Sugar Land.
At a Glance
Our Practice at a Glance
- Who we are
- A surgical practice providing general surgery, surgical oncology (cancer surgery), and wound care for patients in Fort Bend County and Greater Houston.
- Our surgeon
- Dr. Murtaza Shakir, MD, board certified in General Surgery and Complex General Surgical Oncology, and named a Houstonia Top Doctor in General Surgery for 2026.
- What we treat
- Hernias, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, acid reflux, hemorrhoids, skin lesions and cysts, chronic wounds, and breast, colon and rectal, liver, pancreatic, and thyroid and parathyroid cancers.
- Surgical approaches
- Open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery, with minimally invasive surgery used whenever it is appropriate and safe.
- Offices and hours
- Katy (410 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 4D) and Sugar Land (17510 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 320). Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- New patients
- Accepting new patients, including patients from other parts of Texas and from overseas. Call 713-955-9191.
- Get emergency care for
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain, a painful hernia bulge that cannot be pushed back in, heavy bleeding, chest pain, or trouble breathing. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Our Practice
Who We Are
Surgical Associates of Southern Texas is a general surgery and surgical oncology practice with offices in Katy and Sugar Land. We evaluate and treat common surgical conditions of the abdomen, digestive tract, skin, and soft tissue, provide surgical care for several cancers, and offer care for chronic and slow-healing wounds.
Every patient is seen by a board-certified surgeon who follows their care from the first consultation through recovery. Our goal is to help you understand your condition, decide whether surgery is right for you, and return to daily life safely.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide minimally invasive surgical care whenever it is appropriate and safe, so patients can recover sooner and return to daily life with confidence. When open surgery is the safer choice, we explain why. We aim to give every patient clear guidance, realistic expectations, and support from consultation through recovery.
Our Guiding Principles
Three principles guide how we care for patients:
- Knowledgeable: recommendations based on surgical training, a careful evaluation, and current medical evidence
- Solicitous: attentive to each patient’s concerns, questions, and comfort
- Ingenious: thoughtful problem-solving to fit the treatment plan to each person
In practice, this means a plan built around your diagnosis, your overall health, and your goals, with honest communication at every step.
Patients We Serve
We care for patients from Katy, Sugar Land, Richmond, Fulshear, Stafford, and the west and southwest Houston area. Many patients are referred by their primary care doctor, gastroenterologist, oncologist, or an emergency department, and others contact us directly. We also welcome patients from other parts of Texas and from overseas.
Your Surgeon
Meet Our Surgeon
Murtaza Shakir, MD
Board-Certified General Surgeon & Surgical Oncologist
Care at Surgical Associates of Southern Texas is led by Dr. Murtaza Shakir, who is board certified in General Surgery and Complex General Surgical Oncology; read his full physician profile.
Board certification
American Board of Surgery: General Surgery and Complex General Surgical Oncology
Medical degree
Aga Khan University
Residency
General Surgery, Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
Fellowship
Two-year Surgical Oncology fellowship, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Surgical practice includes
Named a Houstonia Top Doctor in General Surgery (2026). Learn more about our general surgery services.
Our Services
What Conditions Do We Treat?
We treat common general surgery conditions, several types of cancer, and chronic wounds. Each service below has its own page with symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery details.
Hernia Repair
Evaluation and repair of inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button), ventral, incisional, and recurrent hernias, including complex abdominal wall hernias, using open, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques. Learn about hernia repair and robotic hernia repair.
Gallbladder Surgery
Care for gallstones, gallbladder attacks, and gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), including removal of the gallbladder, most often with laparoscopic or robotic surgery. Learn about gallbladder surgery.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. It usually needs prompt treatment, most often removal of the appendix (appendectomy). Suspected appendicitis needs same-day emergency care. Learn about appendicitis and appendix removal.
Reflux Surgery
For gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that medicine and lifestyle changes do not control, laparoscopic antireflux surgery may be an option. Learn about reflux surgery.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can bleed, itch, or bulge. Treatment ranges from home care to office procedures and, when needed, surgery. Learn about hemorrhoid treatment.
Skin Lesions, Masses and Cysts
Evaluation and removal of skin lesions, cysts, lipomas, and other lumps, with a biopsy when cancer is a concern. Many removals are done in the office under local anesthesia. Learn about skin lesion, mass, and cyst removal.
Surgical Oncology
Surgical evaluation and treatment of cancer, coordinated with your oncology team, for breast, colon and rectal, liver, pancreatic, and thyroid and parathyroid cancers. Learn about surgical oncology.
Wound Care
Care for diabetic ulcers, chronic non-healing wounds, and post-surgical wounds, in the office and through mobile visits in parts of Greater Houston. Learn about wound care.
For an overview of the specialty, read about general surgery or browse all of our services. Not sure which service fits your problem? Call 713-955-9191 and our staff can help you schedule the right visit.
Signs and Symptoms
When Should You See a Surgeon?
You should see a surgeon when a symptom, scan, or test result points to a problem that may need an operation, or when your doctor recommends a surgical opinion. Common reasons patients come to us include:
- A bulge in the groin, at the belly button, or near an old incision
- Pain in the upper right abdomen after meals, or gallstones found on an ultrasound
- Heartburn or regurgitation that continues despite medicine
- Rectal bleeding, itching, or a lump near the anus
- A lump under the skin, a cyst, or a mole or skin lesion that is changing
- A wound that has not healed after several weeks
- A scan, biopsy, or screening test that shows a mass or possible cancer
- Follow-up after an emergency room visit for appendicitis, gallbladder pain, or a hernia
Rectal bleeding has many causes, including hemorrhoids and colon cancer, so it should always be checked by a doctor.
When to Get Emergency Care
Seek emergency care right away for severe belly pain, pain that moves to the lower right belly, a hernia bulge that turns painful or discolored and won’t go back in, yellow eyes with fever, nonstop vomiting, heavy bleeding, chest pain or trouble breathing. For a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Surgery or Not
Does Seeing a Surgeon Mean You Need Surgery?
No. A visit with a surgeon is an evaluation, not a commitment to an operation. Many conditions are first treated with medicine, lifestyle changes, or careful monitoring. Surgery is recommended only when its expected benefits outweigh its risks for you.
Some problems, such as appendicitis or a trapped (strangulated) hernia, usually need prompt surgery. Others, such as gallstones that cause no symptoms or a small hernia with few symptoms, can often be watched. For cancer, surgery is planned together with your oncology team, and it may come before or after other treatments.
Questions to Ask at Your Visit
- What is causing my symptoms?
- What happens if I wait?
- What are the non-surgical options, and how well do they work for my condition?
- If I need surgery, which approach would you use, and why?
- Will I go home the same day?
- When can I return to work, driving, and lifting?
You are welcome to bring a family member and to take time to decide.
Your Care Path
How Surgical Care Works at Our Practice
Care at our practice follows four steps: a consultation, a treatment plan, surgery when it is needed, and recovery with follow-up. Dr. Shakir stays involved at each step, so you know who is responsible for your care and what comes next.
1. Consultation
Dr. Shakir asks about your symptoms, health history, medicines, and previous operations. He examines you and reviews your imaging, lab results, and reports from other doctors. He then explains what is causing your problem and what your options are. If more tests are needed, he explains why and how the results may change the plan.
2. Your Treatment Plan
Together, you decide on the next step: watchful waiting, treatment without surgery, more testing, or surgery. If surgery is planned, you learn which approach is recommended, why, what the risks are, and what recovery will look like. Preparation may include blood tests and medical clearance. See our pre-operative care guidance.
3. Surgery
Smaller procedures, such as removing many skin lesions and cysts, can often be done in the office under local anesthesia. Many minimally invasive operations are outpatient surgery, while larger or urgent operations may need a hospital stay. Our Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) approach uses planning before, during, and after surgery to help you recover sooner.
4. Recovery and Follow-Up
You receive instructions for incision care, activity, eating, and pain control. Read about pain management after surgery and post-operative care. At your follow-up visit, Dr. Shakir checks your healing and reviews any pathology results with you.
Your care team tells you where your procedure will take place, how long you can expect to stay, and who to call with questions after surgery.
Surgical Approaches
Open, Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery
Dr. Shakir performs open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery and chooses the approach that lets him complete your operation safely and effectively. Minimally invasive surgery is used whenever it is appropriate, because it usually means less pain, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activity than open surgery.
Is One Approach Always Better?
No. The best approach depends on your condition, your health, and any previous surgery. Sometimes a minimally invasive operation is changed to an open one for safety, and this possibility is discussed with you before surgery. Read more about laparoscopic versus open hernia repair, robotic versus open hernia repair, and robotic versus laparoscopic gallbladder surgery.
| Feature | Open Surgery | Laparoscopic Surgery | Robotic-Assisted Surgery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incisions | One incision large enough to reach the area | Several small incisions | Minimally invasive |
| Instruments | Surgeon works directly in the area | Thin camera and long, narrow instruments | Robotic arms controlled from a console |
| Surgeon’s view | Direct view | Camera (laparoscope) image | Enlarged 3-D image |
| Good to know | Best for some large, complex or emergency cases | Usually less pain and quicker recovery than open | The robot does not operate on its own |
Typical patterns only. Dr. Shakir recommends an approach after your exam.
Patient Experience
Our Approach to Patient Care
Good surgical care starts with listening. We take time to understand your concerns, explain each step in plain language, and make sure you feel prepared before any procedure. We aim to treat every patient with the respect, compassion, and attention we would want for our own family.
Clear Explanations
Dr. Shakir explains your diagnosis, your options, and each step from consultation through recovery, so you understand your choices and feel prepared before surgery.
Safety First
Every recommendation weighs the expected benefits of surgery against its risks and the risks of waiting. Careful preparation before surgery helps lower the chance of complications.
Honest Communication
You hear what is known, what is still uncertain, and what to expect, including realistic recovery times. Your questions are welcome at every visit.
Care That Fits Your Life
Your work, caregiving duties, travel, and support at home are part of planning the timing of surgery and recovery. Our staff help coordinate scheduling, including for patients who travel.
Recognition
Recognition and Patient Reviews
Dr. Shakir was named a Houstonia Top Doctor in General Surgery for 2026, and patients rate the practice 4.9 stars on Google. Patient reviews describe what it is like to be cared for here, including how questions were answered, how scheduling went, and how recovery felt. Read more on our patient reviews page.
How to Check a Surgeon's Credentials
The American College of Surgeons notes that board certification is a good sign of a surgeon’s competence. You can confirm a surgeon’s certification with the American Board of Surgery’s public Check a Certification tool, and you can look up a physician’s National Provider Identifier (NPI) record in the federal NPI Registry. Links to these sources are listed in the references below.
Getting Started
How to Schedule Your First Visit
To schedule a consultation, call 713-955-9191 or request an appointment online. Many patients are referred by their primary care doctor, a specialist, or an emergency department, and you can also contact us directly. Some insurance plans, including many HMO plans, require a referral from your primary care doctor before a specialist visit, so check your plan’s rules first.
Insurance
We see patients with many major insurance plans, including participating Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare plans. Coverage depends on your specific plan, so verify your benefits with your insurer and our office before your visit. See our insurance information and plan pages for Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare.
What to Bring
- Photo ID and your insurance card
- Your referral, if your plan requires one
- Imaging reports and discs, such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI
- Endoscopy, colonoscopy, biopsy, and pathology reports
- Recent lab results
- A list of your medicines, supplements, and allergies
- Records of previous operations
- A list of your questions
New patient paperwork is available on our patient forms page.
Patients From Outside the Area
Patients from Greater Houston and other parts of Texas are asked to call the office to confirm an appointment. Overseas patients should contact us in advance to arrange a detailed consultation.
Offices and Hours
Our Offices in Katy and Sugar Land
We see patients at two offices on the Grand Parkway, open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Call 713-955-9191 to schedule at either office. We do not have an office inside Houston city limits; patients from across Greater Houston are seen in Katy or Sugar Land.
Katy Office
410 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 4D
Katy, TX 77494
Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Phone: 713-955-9191
Convenient for Katy, Fulshear, and West Houston. Learn more about seeing a general surgeon in Katy.
Sugar Land Office
17510 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 320
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Phone: 713-955-9191
Convenient for Sugar Land, Richmond, Stafford, and Fort Bend County. Learn more about seeing a general surgeon in Sugar Land.
Why Choose Us
Why Patients Choose Surgical Associates of Southern Texas
Surgical Associates of Southern Texas is led by Dr. Murtaza Shakir, board certified in General Surgery and Complex General Surgical Oncology, with offices in Katy and Sugar Land.
- Dual board certification from the American Board of Surgery
- Surgical Oncology fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
- Open, laparoscopic and robotic surgery when appropriate and safe
- Clear explanations from consultation through recovery
- Consultations Monday to Friday in Katy and Sugar Land
Insurance Coverage
Insurance for Surgical Care
Surgical Associates of Southern Texas accepts many major insurance plans for surgical consultations, procedures, and wound care, including participating Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. Our office can confirm whether your specific plan participates and whether a referral or prior authorization is needed before your visit.
Coverage, network participation, authorization requirements, and your share of the cost vary by plan. You can also review the insurance accepted for surgical care at our practice.
Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield are only some of the plans we accept. Plan-specific details are on our Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield pages. If your plan is not listed, contact our office and our team will help verify it.
Insurance participation and benefits vary by individual plan. Verification does not guarantee coverage, authorization or payment. Please contact our office and your insurer to verify benefits before treatment.
Our Locations
Two Convenient Fort Bend County Offices
Learn more about our Katy and Sugar Land practices, or view all locations.
Katy Office
410 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 4D
Katy, TX 77494
Serves: Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Cinco Ranch and West Houston
Sugar Land Office
17510 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 320
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Serves: Sugar Land, Richmond, Stafford, Missouri City, Fort Bend County and Southwest Houston
Approximate Drive Times
From West Houston (Energy Corridor): about 15 minutes to Katy, or 25 to 30 minutes to Sugar Land.
From North Houston: about 40 to 50 minutes to either office, depending on traffic.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Practice
What is Surgical Associates of Southern Texas?
Surgical Associates of Southern Texas is a general surgery and surgical oncology practice with offices in Katy and Sugar Land, TX. We treat common surgical conditions, provide surgical care for several cancers, and offer wound care.
Who is the surgeon at your practice?
Our practice is led by Dr. Murtaza Shakir, MD, a general surgeon and surgical oncologist. Read his physician profile for his training and background.
Is Dr. Shakir board certified?
Yes. Dr. Shakir is board certified by the American Board of Surgery in General Surgery and in Complex General Surgical Oncology. Anyone can confirm a surgeon’s certification with the American Board of Surgery’s public Check a Certification tool.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat hernias, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, acid reflux, hemorrhoids, skin lesions and cysts, and chronic wounds. We also provide surgical care for breast, colon and rectal, liver, pancreatic, and thyroid and parathyroid cancers.
Do you offer robotic and minimally invasive surgery?
Yes. Dr. Shakir performs open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. Minimally invasive surgery is used whenever it is appropriate and safe, and he explains which approach he recommends for you and why.
Does seeing a surgeon mean I will need surgery?
No. Many conditions are first treated with medicine, lifestyle changes, or monitoring. Dr. Shakir recommends surgery only when the expected benefits outweigh the risks for you.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. We welcome new patients at both our Katy and Sugar Land offices. Call 713-955-9191 or request an appointment online.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Shakir?
It depends on your insurance. Many patients are referred by a primary care doctor or specialist, and some plans, such as many HMO plans, require a referral. Check with your plan, and call our office with scheduling questions.
What insurance do you accept?
We see patients with many major plans, including participating Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare plans. Coverage depends on your plan, so verify your benefits with your insurer and our office. See our insurance information.
What are your office hours?
Both offices are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Call 713-955-9191 to schedule.
Sources and references
- Check a Surgeon’s Certification, American Board of Surgery (ABS)
- Specialty Definitions: General Surgery and Complex General Surgical Oncology, American Board of Surgery (ABS)
- NPI Record 1063602399: Murtaza Shakir, MD (Surgery, Surgical Oncology), NPPES NPI Registry, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- Top Doctors 2026: General Surgery, Houstonia Magazine
- Surgeon Qualifications and Certifications, American College of Surgeons (ACS)
Reviewed by the Review Team at Surgical Associates of Southern Texas.
Medical Disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. For severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, chest pain, trouble breathing, or other emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Last updated October 16, 2026.
Schedule a Surgical Consultation
Have a hernia, gallbladder symptoms, reflux that medicine isn’t controlling, hemorrhoids, a skin lump, a slow-healing wound or a new cancer diagnosis? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Murtaza Shakir to find the cause and learn whether surgery is needed. Call 713-955-9191. Offices in Katy and Sugar Land serve Richmond, Fulshear and Greater Houston.
Contact us now