Dr. Elias Darido, MD, FACS: Heartburn and Reflux Specialist in Houston
Dr. Elias Darido
MD, FACS
Heartburn & Reflux Specialist — Houston, TX
“Proper diagnosis and effective heartburn treatment” — the vision behind every patient encounter at Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center.
About
Meet Dr. Elias Darido
In today’s healthcare environment, there is much more to offer to control gastro-esophageal acid reflux disease (GERD). Many physicians rely on Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) like Nexium, Dexilant, and Prevacid — medications that control symptoms but don’t cure the underlying problem. Symptom control alone is not enough when managing a chronic, progressive condition. At Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center, Dr. Darido provides comprehensive, definitive care for GERD patients in Houston and around the world.
Born and raised in Lebanon, Dr. Darido’s journey in medicine began at the prestigious American University of Beirut, where he graduated from medical school with honors. Driven by a passion for surgical excellence, he made his way to the United States to train at Good Samaritan Hospital and the University of Cincinnati — two institutions with a proud surgical tradition — before earning a coveted fellowship in advanced laparoscopic foregut surgery at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Over 15 years in practice, Dr. Darido has dedicated his career to helping patients find lasting relief from acid reflux and gastro-esophageal conditions. He has performed more than 1,000 Nissen Fundoplication surgeries with a strong safety record, and is regularly invited to lecture on the complexities of gastric function and related conditions.
Free Patient Guide
Dr. Darido’s complete approach to Heartburn and Acid Reflux Management — everything you need to understand your diagnosis and options.
Credentials
Education & Training
Good Samaritan Hospital & University of Cincinnati, Ohio
Clinical Expertise
Areas of Specialization
1,000+ surgeries performed
Academic Leadership
Innovation & Research
- Darido E, Moore JR. Comparison of Gastric Fundus Invagination and Gastric Plication for Weight Loss in a Rat Model. Obesity Surgery, 2014.
- Darido E, Farrell TM. Laparoscopic Longitudinal Gastrectomy and Duodenojejunostomy for Diabetic Gastroparesis. Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, 2012.
- Darido E, Overby DW et al. Evaluation of Gastric Fundus Invagination as a Weight Loss Procedure in a Porcine Model. Obesity Surgery, 2012.
- Darido E, Farrell TM. Invited Commentary on Fast-track Concepts in Upper Abdominal Surgery. World Journal of Surgery, 2011.
- Darido E, Smith JM, Engel AM. Predictors of Type II Neurologic Complications After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery. International Surgery, 2008.
- SAGES Guideline Committee (2010–present): Clinical guidelines development for the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons
- Peer Reviewer, World Journal of Surgery (2010–present)
- Peer Reviewer, Obesity Surgery Journal (2012–present)
- Peer Reviewer, Surgery of Obesity and Related Disorders (2012–present)
Dr. Darido has been invited to lecture on gastric fundus function, reflux disease, delayed gastric emptying, and metabolic conditions at leading academic institutions and professional conferences, including:
Affiliations
Professional Memberships
Approach
Practice Philosophy
“Gastro-esophageal reflux disease is a challenging condition. A combination of science, experience, intuition and dedication are needed to assure that GERD patients are well taken care of.”
— Dr. Elias Darido, MD, FACS
Thorough evaluation to understand the underlying mechanisms — not just surface-level symptom checking.
Both medical and surgical approaches offered, with surgery reserved for appropriate candidates.
Advanced laparoscopic techniques that address root causes rather than controlling symptoms indefinitely.
Ensuring every patient understands their condition and the rationale behind recommended treatment.
Dr. Darido’s training in advanced laparoscopic surgery allows him to offer patients the benefits of minimally invasive techniques — smaller incisions, reduced recovery time, and lower complication rates — while maintaining the highest standards of surgical safety and efficacy.
Ready for Comprehensive GERD Care?
If you’ve been struggling with heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD — whether managed with medications or not — you deserve more than temporary symptom relief. We offer proper diagnosis, comprehensive treatment options, and advanced surgical solutions.