Get Quotes Contact Us Sign In
Website
Call
Austin Hand Group provides the most current medical and surgical advancements for patients of all ages. Ira G. Lown M.D., is a Fellowship-Trained Hand Surgeon and an Associate Member of the American College of Surgeons as well as a Candidate Member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.
Reviews (29)
Write a Review
R. Zindler
Mar 26, 2022
Both Dr Lown and PA Shelby we're incredibly kind and sensitive about treating my infected finger. They fit me into their busy schedule to accommodate an important work meeting I had that day. Not only were they super efficient but they were reassuring and made me feel comfortable and at ease when I was nervous about a small procedure- offering juice and crackers and comforting me with kind words when I was concerned. Thanks for going above and beyond in patient care!
Robert Hutchins
Mar 25, 2022
A two minute session w the doctor, a cortisone shot for 2 trigger finger issues administered by a PA and out the door. Three weeks later, no change to my fingers. Office visits w doctors have are like a fast food business. Get em in, get em out.
Chad Anselmo
Dec 26, 2021
Austin Hand group was amazing. I kid around, but I think they added 10-15 yards to my drive. Amazing to work with and very professional.
Doris Mc Queen
Nov 12, 2021
This was my first time as a patient at Austin Hand Group. The receptionist was friendly and the wait was short. Shelby, the PA was professional and made me feel comfortable as she got the needed information and took the x-rays. Dr. Lown was great! The whole experience was pleasant from start to finish.
Mar 31, 2021
Dr. Lown performed golfer's elbow surgery on me over a year ago. I just wanted to report back that the surgery was a great success. I am pain free playing tennis again. I would like to thank Dr. Lown and his staff and I am truly grateful for the great care I received.
Harper Biewen
Mar 16, 2021
Dr. Lown was incredibly rude and condescending. He came in, told me that they don't treat carpal tunnel if it's been acting up for less than two weeks, said "are we done here?" and attempted to leave. I had questions as I know nothing about carpal tunnel and he told me that all of my questions could be answered in the FAQ section of his website. The medical assistant ended up answering them for me.

It was embarrassing and infuriating, I wouldn't recommend Austin Hand Group to anyone else. I basically just paid him to mock me and make me feel that I was overreacting by coming to him. It's scary when your hand goes numb for a week and you don't know why, I would've liked to feel reassured by visiting him.
Edmond Chen
Feb 25, 2021
My co-work received his finger surgery here, due to the language barrier I companied with my co-worker all the way, Austin hand group's doctor and all staffs are very professional, the surgery is excellent. their staffs are very kind and honest, and we be informed that we get thousand dollar refund because some facilities not be use during the operation.
Karl Schulte
Feb 02, 2021
Horrible experience. Just felt like they did not care. No eye contact. No questions. Dr Lown in and out as fast as possible. Was told that I needed a nerve test. After the test, I wanted to schedule the carpal tunnel surgery but was required to come in to sign a piece of paper. I was told that they would discuss ALL options but that did not happen.

I came in early as they had a cancellation and I sat for 25 minutes. I will not use him for my surgery. Very cold feeling. I have never left a doctor office in all of my life feeling this way. I followed up with their administrator and although she listened it seemed like she didn't want to hear it.
Steve S.
Jan 13, 2021
About 6 years ago, I began seeing Dr Ira Lown because of right hand and wrist pain, which awakened me at night and hindered my sleeping patterns. After taking X-Rays, he diagnosed my condition as carpel tunnel syndrome. Wanting to avoid surgery at all costs, Dr. Lown treated me with injections, which worked for while but ultimately I needed surgery. Following surgery, which was minimally invasive, there was some discomfort, which quickly passed. I continue to be appreciative of the treatment I received from Dr. Lown.
I. R.
May 26, 2018
Wanted me to have a $12,000 surgery to put screws in my wrist for a hairline fracture. A fracture that the Dr didn't even detect until the nurse pointed it out to him. I decided to pass on his advice and simply get a cast. He then wanted me to get a $5,000 device to help it heal faster. I passed on that too. After six weeks my cast was off and my hand feels great. To me this is the perfect example of our broken healthcare system. Instead of doing what's right for the patient, the Dr suggested what was the most expensive.
Nate McCann
Jan 20, 2018
I can't say better things about this place! I had carpal tunnel surgery on my left wrist and everything went perfectly according to the plan. I'm usually very nervous in any Doctor/dentist situation, so let's just say I was a bit nervous to have surgery. The staff was wonderful and comforting. Every step of the procedure was explained thoroughly including anesthesia.

I was not nervous at all the day I had the surgery and I'll give that up to the staff. They kept me informed yet distracted and comfortable all at the same time if that makes sense. I HIGHLY recommend Dr. Lown and Austin Hand Group. Please see this doctor if you have any issues that he specializes in! His credentials are outstanding and so are the results! My hand is normal again! Symptoms gone. I'd call this a success!
AnnDee W.
Nov 03, 2017
Dr. Lown and his staff were fantastic. They worked me in right away, wait time not long, he diagnosed the problem quickly, gave me options, and did not charge me for unnessessary imaging. Getting results is the most important concern when you are in pain. Thank you for doing a great job with my wrist!
Michael M.
Aug 10, 2017
I have had a good experience here. I was recommended to Dr. Lown by a chiropractor who was unable to correct a wrist condition I've been dealing with. Within a days notice (got an appointment within one day of request),D r Lown was able to diagnose my wrist condition in 10 minutes. The diagnosis was wrist intersection syndrome, and his easy treatment prescription has thus far worked tremendously over the last two weeks.

I can plank, lift weights, etc.in other words, I'm doing the activities I was unable to do bc of the injury. I've only spent maybe an hour and half total in their office over two appointments to fix this. They are an efficient group which is appreciated. Also, the pricing is favorable. I didn't give them 5 stars bc I'm still in the process of healing (although 90% there). I will likely revise upwards to 5 stars once I'm completely healed.
Eydie W.
Nov 19, 2016
I was referred to Dr Lown for a fractured finger. First, I will say that I was very pleased with the office staff. They initiated contact with me to inform that they didn't accept my insurance (no surprise to all of us in the TX insurance marketplace, sigh). He did provide cost for out of pocket expense which I felt it worth the visit to get more information.

His treatment manner is detached, almost stoic. His first assessment is that my finger would have a permanent dip, or divot. He then set finger in a splint for 2 weeks. Upon return he recommended surgery right away and discussed the consequences of losing mobility and again, the forever dip in my finger. I opted for a second opinion and thankfully, saved myself from further damage and unnecessary cost.

The splint position he had set my in had caused my joint to become stuck while ligaments and tendons had to be forced down and the entire hand reset. First comment from my second ortho was "no way should you have surgery". The bone fracture healed in a matter of weeks and the joint and ligaments are gaining better mobility. Surgery would undoubtedly have further complicated my situation.

A simple fracture should be able to heal itself with proper immobilization, and it did. The rest of my hand was not considered in his assessment and would have lead to multiple surgeries. Very grateful I went for a second opinion! Reviews online from other patients also guided my decision to do so.
Amanda H.
May 25, 2016
Dr. Lown is an exceptionally skilled surgeon. He has stellar credentials and training and comes from very robust medical/surgical programs. Not only are his techniques first rate, Dr. Lown is a rare and talented diagnostician. I had been misdiagnosed for over 6 years, by multiple doctors. Dr. Lown instantly and accurately diagnosed my problem, the cause, effect it was having and came up with a treatment plan, where others doctors failed miserably.

He was spot on with setting expectations going forward during and after surgery, including details about the surgery and healing process in both medical and layman's terms. Dr. Lown arranged his surgery schedule so that I could get in immediately. The Austin Hand group's office has the latest technology and progressive equipment. The process from the minute I stepped through the door was seamless.

From calling my insurance, arranging my MRI for the following day and selecting a top notch surgical hospital (Arise Surgery Center) it could not have been easier on my end. Additionally Dr. Lown chose the perfect team to work with him during my surgery. Everyone I dealt with, from the Austin Hand Group's office, to Dr. Lown and Arise Surgery Center all worked with me and helped and manage my anxiety with patience and compassion.

I had to call Dr. Lown the day after surgery, on Saturday, and he made himself completely available, called me right back and had a detailed conversation with me about surgery and reset my expectations around my questions/needs for immediate healing. Dr. Lown laid out timelines of what to expect in terms of dates and pain level, again, (since I was under general anesthesia during surgery), post op and utterly panicked unnecessarily with recovery pain. Dr. Lown's office called me the afternoon after my surgery to check up on me. They all have had prompt follow-up throughout and wound care has been meticulous. I strongly recommend seeing The Austin Hand Group.
Tricia F.
Feb 22, 2016
My experience with Dr. Ira Lown and the Austin Hand Group has been great! All of the staff were very helpful, kind, friendly and knowledgeable. Dr. Lown recommended physical therapy and a splint in the beginning. Over time, it became evident that I would need surgery. I appreciate the fact that he did not rush into surgery, but tried other methods first. Dr. Lown gave me excellent care before, during and after surgery. He is very compassionate, positive and encouraging, as is his entire staff. I highly recommend this Doctor and his team for any hand issues!
Carmella M.
Sep 23, 2015
The treatment of the hand and wrist, including consultations, diagnostics, treatment, surgery and hand therapy. Saw Dr. Ira Lown practice consisting hand surgeon, Minimally invasive procedures include Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Releases, did all my electronic medical records, online and verbal communication with all major insurance carriers for benefits for this surgery.

For many years I have suffered from Carpal Tunnel and Amen to my Husband barber who told me about him, I have never felt so good no more dull pain or like I always felt like something had run over my arm it would ached for days no longer do I have too worry about it. Thank You Dr Lown.
Stella K.
Jul 23, 2015
I woke up one day with a numb hand, trigger finger and a lot of swelling. I was in so much pain that it was impacting every facet of my life. My General Practitioner referred me to Dr. Lown. Thank goodness I was able to get in immediately. Dr. Lown took the time to educate me on what was wrong with my hand, how it developed and what my options were.

After Dr. Lown's treatment and then a couple of months of OT with Lisa Howard, I am able to resume my normal activities. Lisa Howard is great. She will take the time to explain what's happening to you, how your environment, age, diet, etc. can contribute to your condition. She'll explain what the exercises are meant to do and how to avoid setbacks. Now, all the pain is gone! Thank goodness. I highly recommend Austin Hand Group. Everybody in the office is very committed to providing exemplary services.
Bruce I.
Jul 07, 2015
I had nothing but good experiences at Dr Lown's office. The doctor and staff were very professional and efficient. My condition was diagnosed and treated successfully. The physical therapist, Lisa Howard, is the best. She knows her stuff and is genuinely interested in your progress. She'll make you sure you do the work you need to. And besides that, she is a very funny and warm and entertaining person. I will miss her. (I would almost hurt my hand again on purpose just to go back to her.that's how good she is.)
James B.
Mar 12, 2015
Typical rip off medical facility. You go in for a diagnosis, then the "fix" is way overkill if you have the insurance that will cover it. If you opt out, some confusing billing/credit takes place and you some how have a balance, though you paid almost $100 for the visit. You get a bill for another $65? The office manager is the worst human being to deal with.

She should not work with people, period. An office visit is an office visit. Should be flat rate? But ask what it is and they can't tell you. You get an answer you would expect from a politician, just on and on and no direct answer. Then finally a condescending, "If you can't afford it and have trouble admitting it, we can take care of the balance for you." What a bunch of crap. No one should be treated this way! Health care needs to change! Sick of it. (No pun intended) DON"T GO TO AUSTIN HAND GROUP!
Lisa H.
Jun 18, 2014
For basic wrist sprains that don't require much treatment, and for people who also don't care about a doctor having good bedside manner, Dr Lown is mostly sufficient. I had a much more complicated injury that Dr. Lown made worse with multiple surgeries. I wound up having a very complex, lenghty hand surgery (with a different surgeon) that required a plate and screws and lots of tendon repair to fix what happened under Dr. Lown's treatment.

One more surgery left to go (five total, three with Dr. Lown). I actually have had great experience with his office staff, but not the occupational therapist he has there. Much left to be desired in a doctor. Check out his record with the medical board.
Micah S.
May 19, 2014
The Dr. came in to see me, after 45 minutes past my appointment, never made eye contact with me nor asked me how I was or felt, looked at my finger, told me what i knew from doing research online, shoved a $45 splint on my finger but told me to have a $100 custom one made, and walked out. He might be a good surgeon, but nothing more than that.
Safy L.
Mar 13, 2014
The Doctor is okay its the Office manager who is horrible, At my last visit she rudely said u owe me $700.00 I said wow knew nothing about this, she then became very Curt and unprofessional saying oh so your not going to pay the doctor? Nasty Rude woman I sure her name is Sondra, After some strong words I say send me the bill and walked out, well i never got a bill until about 5-6 months later with a note saying pay this now or go to collections!

I have never been shown such disrespect and abysmal customer service then this woman showed me. She should not be in the public sector at all. I'll be filling a formal complaint about her.
Alex M.
Jan 31, 2014
I saw Dr. Lown last year for wrist pain associated with computer use. I agree with the commenters that he wasn't overly warm or friendly, but he answered my questions, helped me understand some possible options and referred me to Lisa Howard. Lisa is very friendly and knowledgeable. She suggested some strategies for managing my wrist tendonitis with stretching, ice and rest. I have nothing but good things to say.
J. A.
Nov 26, 2013
Made an appt. to see Dr. Lown for wrist tendonitis. He was very friendly and knowledgeable as was his medical assistant. I called back after my initial appt. and spoke to one of the staff there for the first time named Saundra. Unfortunately this was the person I had to speak to for all issues during my 3 visits. Saundra had a very hostile personality and a 'take or leave it' attitude when I requested a medication be changed do to a drug interaction.

After my 3rd visit I felt uncomfortable calling or returning for any other visits because of her poor customer service. Would have given 4 stars if it weren't for her because he really is a great doctor.
Nicole S.
Nov 11, 2012
I made an appointment for 3:00 for my wrist, thinking I was getting carpel tunnel. I was not brought back till 4:15 then put in a room where I waited till 4:50, then was moved to a different room and waited till 5:20. Finally the Dr came in. No introduction, no smile, no questions about my wrist. He moved my wrist around for a minute and said I didn't have CT and suggests I make an appointment with his physical therapist. After two minutes with me he was gone and I was shoved out to the front desk. Wont be going there again.
Sarah B.
Jan 05, 2012
Making an appointment here was easy and flexible. There was hardly any wait and the staff was exceptionally friendly and very eager to please. Dr. Lown was very professional and helpful. His "bedside manner" was a bit rigid - he wasn't overly warm or friendly - but he was knowledgeable and helpful and gave me the answers I needed. Best yet, I felt like he gave the needed information but let me make the final decision on my treatment.

They were also very willing to work with me without insurance and were upfront and honest about pricing. I would go again for continued treatment of my Carpel Tunnel and trigger finger. Recommended.
David R.
Oct 07, 2011
I went to see Dr. Lown for a broken finger. His office was able to get me in and they quickly performed surgery. I found Dr. Lown to be both confident and capable, but I would give my outcome a C. My finger now is permanently rotated several degrees off, and my hand no longer functions as before. I do believe that the surgery could have offered a full recovery and that he is a capable surgeon.

After surgery, it was quickly apparent that there would be some issues with the outcome. His attitude was detached, apathetic, and pulling any explanation from him was difficult. The saving grace in this situation was Lisa Howard, their occupational therapist. She was sympathetic, understanding, and never gave up. I'm confident that Lisa tried everything possible and then some.
Caroline M.
Jul 29, 2011
I just returned from the first visit for my son to see Dr. Lown. My son is a high school football player and he injured both hands. We referred to Dr. Lown by the emergency room physician. Austin Hand Group gladly worked us in since today is Friday and my son was in quite a bit of pain. As I was sitting in the waiting room at Austin Hand, I opened Yelp on my ipad and looked them up.

After reading some of the reviews I warned my son that Dr. Lown may not be very personable. My son could care less since he just needed some relief. After a short wait and some paperwork we were escorted in to an exam room with a spectacular view of the city. Dr. Lown's nurse came in and did an initial assessment. Dr. Lown came in and my son stood up to shake his hand but realized that he couldn't because of the pain. Dr. Lown mentioned he doesn't often shake hands with his patients since, yes.he's a hand Dr. Hence one of the offended patient reviews regarding the rude, non handshake.

It all made sense to me. My son offered an elbow bump instead which made Dr. Lown smile. He was all business after that and was very thorough at assessing all the problems. He proceeded to give my son immediate relief with a simple procedure all the while explaining exactly what he was doing and why. Although the procedure was painful, he offered a numbing shot which was declined by my son.

We are headed back to a follow up appt. on Monday. I liked the staff, the nurse and the Dr. I appreciated the logical approach and the course of action he took. He was never rude or condescending. I respectfully disagree with some of the other posts here and also hope that my review is NOT filtered. I am a first time customer of this Dr. and when it comes to my kids, I don't mince words. I recommend Dr. Lown.