Blog Articles

Michael Sutker, MD, PA Blog View all posts
What Health Concerns Indicate I Might Need Thyroid Surgery?

What Health Concerns Indicate I Might Need Thyroid Surgery?
Your thyroid gland regulates many of your body’s processes, so if it malfunctions, you may experience a number of unpleasant symptoms. Keep reading to learn about the health concerns that indicate you might need thyroid surgery.
Jun 2nd, 2025
Will a Lipoma Go Away on Its Own?

Will a Lipoma Go Away on Its Own?
Lipomas are fatty lumps that develop just below the skin. While no one wants a fatty lump, lipomas generally aren’t harmful. But will they go away without treatment? Find out here.
Apr 8th, 2025
What Role Does My Doctor Take During Robotic Surgery?

What Role Does My Doctor Take During Robotic Surgery?
Find out how your doctor and the da Vinci® robotic system work together to perform surgery that’s far more precise, and far less invasive, than open surgery — and comes with an easier, faster recovery.
Nov 2nd, 2024
What Are My Surgical Options for Acid Reflux?

What Are My Surgical Options for Acid Reflux?
Do you experience acid reflux frequently? You don’t have to live with uncomfortable burning sensations and an irritated throat after eating. Read on to learn about our surgical treatment options for this common problem.
Jun 4th, 2024
I’m Overweight, But I Feel Fine. Why Do I Need to Lose Weight?

I’m Overweight, But I Feel Fine. Why Do I Need to Lose Weight?
Being overweight may “feel fine,” especially if you’re relatively healthy. However, excess weight increases your risk of developing many serious health conditions. Here’s why you should shed extra pounds — even if you currently feel well.
May 17th, 2024

Does a Hernia Require Treatment?
Every year in the United States, millions of people develop hernias within their abdominal wall. Learn about this common health condition, and find out when it requires medical attention and treatment.
Feb 1st, 2024

3 Risk Factors for Inguinal Hernia Repair
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernias. While surgical risks are low, certain factors can affect the healing process. Read on to learn more about the factors that can undermine recovery following hernia repair surgery.
Dec 7th, 2023

Why are Diabetes and Excess Weight Closely Linked?
In the United States and around the world, both obesity and diabetes have been on the rise for years. So, it should come as no surprise that they’re related. Find out how one causes the other and vice versa.
Nov 2nd, 2023
How Constipation Can Cause a Hernia

How Constipation Can Cause a Hernia
Chronic constipation isn’t just uncomfortable — not going to the bathroom regularly can also increase your risk of several complications, including hernia development. Learn more here.
Sep 1st, 2023
Do I Need Acid Reflux Surgery?

Do I Need Acid Reflux Surgery?
Do you frequently experience heartburn after you eat? If medicine or dietary changes are not relieving symptoms, acid reflux surgery may be the best solution. Find out if this approach is right for you.
Aug 22nd, 2023
Am I a Good Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

Am I a Good Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a big step in the weight loss journey. Is it for you? Read on to learn who qualifies for bariatric surgery and what you should consider before you undergo gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery.
Jul 4th, 2023
Diet Tips to Avoid GERD Flare-ups

Diet Tips to Avoid GERD Flare-ups
Are you sorry after you’ve eaten some pizza with extra sauce? Making some changes in what you eat and drink could help alleviate a lot of discomfort from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Jun 1st, 2023
What it Takes to Repair an Umbilical Hernia

What it Takes to Repair an Umbilical Hernia
Repetitive chronic coughing or heavy lifting can leave you with an umbilical hernia, which shows up as a bulge near your belly button. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications. Here’s what you need to know.
Apr 1st, 2023
Do I Qualify for Surgical Weight Loss?

Do I Qualify for Surgical Weight Loss?
Weight loss surgery works, but it’s not for everyone. Our team discusses factors they consider when contemplating whether you qualify for a surgical assist in losing those excess pounds.
Mar 14th, 2023
Is Bariatric Revision Surgery Right for You?

Is Bariatric Revision Surgery Right for You?
If you have tried bariatric surgery to lose weight but you’re not losing as much as you want or you’re regaining the weight you did lose, bariatric revision surgery may be the best option for you. Read on to find out more!
Jan 1st, 2023
Gastric Bypass vs. Gastric Sleeve: Which is Best for You

Gastric Bypass vs. Gastric Sleeve: Which is Best for You
Weight loss can be a difficult journey, and sometimes you need some help. Gastric bypass and gastric sleeve are bariatric procedures that aid weight loss by reducing the size of your stomach. Learn more about which is suitable for you.
Dec 1st, 2022
7 Advantages of Robotic-Assisted Surgery

7 Advantages of Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Robotic-assisted surgery combines advanced technology with minimally invasive surgical tools so patients get the best outcomes. Do you need surgery? Click here to learn all about the advantages of robotic surgery
Nov 6th, 2022
Can Weight Loss Reverse My Type 2 Diabetes?

Can Weight Loss Reverse My Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic health condition with a high risk of complications. There’s no cure for it, but it is possible for type 2 diabetes to go into remission. The key? Weight loss.
Aug 1st, 2022
Are Bariatric Surgeries Eligible for Revision?

Are Bariatric Surgeries Eligible for Revision?
Bariatric surgery is a big decision. It’s important to understand all aspects of your procedure—including whether it’s eligible for revision later on. Keep reading to learn what you need to know about these minimally invasive weight loss surgeries.
Jun 1st, 2022
Does My Surgeon Still Have Control During Robotic Surgery?

Does My Surgeon Still Have Control During Robotic Surgery?
Undergoing robotic surgery has major benefits, including greater precision, a potentially shorter recovery time, and smaller scars. Yet, you might still have some questions about how exactly it works. Here’s what you should know.
May 1st, 2022
Signs You May Have Barrett's Esophagus

Signs You May Have Barrett's Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus refers to cell changes in the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach. Unfortunately, Barrett’s esophagus can lead to esophageal cancer. So how do you know if you have it? Find out here.
Apr 1st, 2022
Why Sleeve Gastrectomy Might Be Your Best Option

Why Sleeve Gastrectomy Might Be Your Best Option
If you’re obese, your health and wellbeing are at risk. But most people who try calorie-restriction diets gain all the weight all back … and more. If you’re tired of yo-yo diets (and tired of feeling tired), sleeve gastrectomy may be the answer.
Mar 1st, 2022
How a Persistent Cough Can Lead to a Hernia

How a Persistent Cough Can Lead to a Hernia
Coughing is an important physiological function that clears mucus, secretions, and irritants from your lungs. Coughing, in fact, helps prevent you from contracting infections. A chronic cough, though, can cause complications, including a hernia.
Feb 1st, 2022
How to Prevent Pilonidal Cysts

How to Prevent Pilonidal Cysts
Pilonidal cysts can be very painful and difficult to manage. That’s why we’re sharing our best prevention strategies to help you avoid them.
Jan 6th, 2022
How to Handle Holiday Meals When You Have Acid Reflux

How to Handle Holiday Meals When You Have Acid Reflux
When you have acid reflux, even a simple meal might end in painful heartburn. Holiday eating is filled with landmines that could trigger painful episodes that dampen your spirits. Plan ahead now so you can enjoy yourself during the holidays.
Dec 1st, 2021
5 Reasons Why Your Wound May Not Be Healing

5 Reasons Why Your Wound May Not Be Healing
The occasional cut or scrape isn’t uncommon, but in most cases it heals — and fairly quickly. So what does it mean when a wound isn’t healing? Read on for a handful of possible reasons.
Nov 1st, 2021
The Link Between Obesity and Sleep Apnea

The Link Between Obesity and Sleep Apnea
Do you wake up and gasp for air during the night? It could be a consequence of weight gain. Learn about the link between obesity and sleep apnea, and find out how you can decrease your risk for complications.
Oct 4th, 2021
What Your BMI Says About Your Health

What Your BMI Says About Your Health
Knowing your BMI is an important part of understanding your weight-related medical risks. Here’s what your BMI means and how it relates to your health and wellness.
Sep 5th, 2021
Advantages of daVinci Robotic Surgery for Your Hernia

Advantages of daVinci Robotic Surgery for Your Hernia
Robotic surgery offers lots of benefits for patients undergoing hernia repair (and other types of surgery, too). If hernia surgery is in your future, here’s what you should know about robot-assisted techniques.
Aug 10th, 2021

Am I a Good Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?
If you’re significantly overweight and have tried and tried to reach a healthy body weight to no avail, you may be a good candidate for weight loss surgery. These minimally invasive procedures can improve your health and longevity if you qualify. Keep read
Jul 13th, 2021

Umbilical Hernia Surgery: What to Expect
A bulge in your abdomen can be uncomfortable, painful, and cause other problems. If you’ve noticed that there’s a strange, painful lump in your otherwise smooth stomach, you may have a hernia. Read on to learn more.
Jun 8th, 2021

Bothered by GERD? You May Want to Consider LINX®
Do you suffer from acid reflux that won’t respond to lifestyle changes or medications? Find out how a minimally invasive procedure can improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of GERD complications.
May 10th, 2021

Bariatric Patient - John
John recalls being overweight for his entire life. Due to childhood trauma, he used food as a coping mechanism to manage his emotions. Over the years, this caused excess weight gain.
Mar 29th, 2021

How to Get Relief from Groin Pain Post Hernia Repair
Though most people experience significant relief from their hernia pain following surgery, about 15% of patients have chronic groin pain after inguinal hernia repair. But there are many effective treatments that can help you get pain relief.
Feb 19th, 2021

Bariatric Patient - Stephanie
Stephanie married her high school sweetheart 31 years ago, in April 1989. By September, she had gained 30 pounds. Stephanie’s weight continued to increase slowly over time, especially with each of her three pregnancies.
Feb 9th, 2021

Bariatric Patient - Petty
It started when Petty was growing up. Her weight always fluctuated due to poor eating habits and fad dieting. When Petty was 20, her mother passed away. The loss led Petty to turn to food for comfort.
Feb 9th, 2021

Bariatric Patient - Leonda
Ever since she was a child, Leonda has struggled with the pressures of being overweight. Leonda was put on her first weight-loss diet when she was just in the 3rd grade.
Feb 9th, 2021

Ann’s Amazing Journey
Ann’s weight problems began due to in vitro fertilization treatments in 2003 when she was first married. Over the course of 12 years, she gained approximately 80 pounds. Weight gain is a common side effect of the treatments from the hormones.
Feb 9th, 2021

Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Great Option for Patients With a Lower BMI
Obesity puts you at risk for a host of chronic conditions. If your dieting and exercise efforts have failed to result in the weight loss you seek, sleeve gastrectomy bariatric surgery may be the solution, even if you have a lower BMI. Learn why here.
Jan 29th, 2021

Why Surgery Might Be Necessary to Get Relief From Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, causes such burning and discomfort that you might dread eating or drinking anything. If lifestyle changes and medications haven’t helped, there are innovative surgical options available. Learn more here.
Dec 8th, 2020