Dr. Michael Sutker, MD
Surgeon
7777 Forest Ln Suite A 331 Dallas TX, 75230About
Dr. Sutker has been in practice at Medical City Dallas since 2014 and at Medical City McKinney since 2019. He is board-certified in general surgery. Dr. Sutker manages a wide range of surgical diseases. He specializes in treating conditions with minimally invasive techniques utilizing both standard laparoscopy and robotic-assisted laparoscopy. Dr. Sutker has specialty training in the surgical treatment of obesity, acid reflux, esophageal motility disorders, and paraesophageal hernias. He is skilled in the repair of abdominal wall defects, including inguinal, umbilical, ventral, and incisional hernias. Dr. Sutker also enjoys managing emergency surgical situations including gallbladder disease, appendicitis, and diverticulitis.
Dr. Michael Sutker, MD's Videos
Education and Training
MD at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Board Certification
American Board of Surgery
Provider Details
Dr. Michael Sutker, MD's Expert Contributions
Tips For Weight Loss - By Dr. Michael Sutker
Tip 1 - Do Not Eat After 8 PMMy Recommendation - Many patients consume unnecessary calories late in the day prior to bed. Some patients suffer from Night Eating Disorder. Cutting out these calories can help with weight loss.Tip 2 - Avoid Beverages With CaloriesMy Recommendation - Beverages with...
What Makes Dr. Sutker Stand Out?
Dr. Michael Sutker is the Medical Director of Robotic Surgery and the Chair of the Advanced Clinical Advisory Board at Medical City Dallas Hospital, where he’s been practicing since 2014. There, he is also a member of the General Surgery Performance Improvement and Intensive Care Unit...
Meet Michael Sutker, MD: Dallas's General & Bariatric Surgeon
Dr. Michael Sutker is the Medical Director of Robotic Surgery and the Chair of the Advanced Clinical Advisory Board at Medical City Dallas Hospital, where he’s been practicing since 2014. There, he is also a member of the General Surgery Performance Improvement and Intensive Care Unit...
Minimally Invasive Hernia Repair
Hernias are extremely common, especially in the abdominal area, and could also be present and undetected at birth. They occur when tissue pushes through a muscle’s weak spot.For qualifying patients, minimally invasive hernia repair is a great alternative to more invasive, open hernia repair. The...
Understanding Bariatric Surgery: FAQs
The decision to undergo bariatric surgery is not an easy one.Thinking about undergoing bariatric surgery or know someone who is? Here are some FAQs that might help.When is someone eligible for bariatric surgery?Since there are no two overweight people that are exactly the same, there is no general...
Why did my blood pressure drop when I was given anesthesia?
General anesthesia induces vasodilation in peripheral blood vessels. This means that the small arteries and veins get larger and more blood pools in these vessels instead of the larger blood vessels that maintain your blood pressure. This is a known effect and is usually transient and short-lived. There are generally no long-term ill effects from this. READ MORE
Can I stop breathing while receiving anesthesia?
General anesthesia reduces your respiratory (breathing) rate. During most surgeries, a breathing tube will be placed, and a ventilator will breathe for you. You would not have control of your own breathing in this situation. READ MORE
Could anesthesia be the reason for my father's confusion?
It is not uncommon for elderly patients to have some confusion or delirium after surgery. It is not necessary a direct result of anesthesia. Some of it depends on the reason why he had surgery in the first place. Some of it depends what sorts of medications he received before, during, and after surgery. Some of it depends on his sleep-wake cycle after surgery. READ MORE
How soon after appendix surgery can I begin exercising again?
I tell my patients to get up and walk as soon as possible after surgery. Walking on a treadmill, using a bicycle or an elliptical machine are all acceptable forms of activity. I recommend avoiding strenuous activity such as heavy lifting (defined as >20 lbs) for 2 weeks. This will allow your incisions to heal and help avoid getting a hernia. READ MORE
What are the risks of a Colectomy?
The most serious risk of a partial removal of the colon is to get a leak where it is sewn or stapled back together. This is called an anastomotic leak. It can lead to sepsis and require a return to the operating room with a probable colostomy. Other things that can occur include injury to the ureter, the tube that drains urine from the kidney into the bladder. Wound infections at your incisions are also common occurrences. READ MORE
How likely is it to throw up from anesthesia?
Post-operative nausea and vomiting is a relatively common occurrence. If one of your family members has suffered from this, you are more likely to have it. Be sure to speak to your anesthesiologist as there are many strategies that can be used to help prevent it. READ MORE
What can I expect from a breast lumpectomy?
A lumpectomy is typically an outpatient procedure where you come to the hospital in the morning and leave in the afternoon. It is a well-tolerated operation. Women are generally sore for about 5-7 days after surgery. You will likely be sent home with some pain medication. Your incision will be sewn shut with absorbable sutures that do not need to be removed and will be covered with a dressing. You should be able to shower within 24 hours. It is encouraged that you get up and move around rather than lying in bed all day. Talk to your surgeon about any specific recommendations. READ MORE
What are the most common side effects of a tumor removal?
The stomach is a very pliable organ and removing portions of it have relatively minor consequences. In fact, we remove parts of the stomach all the time as part of standard weight loss operations. I presume your friend will not need that much of her stomach removed. It is very common after these operations for patient's to lose their appetite and feel full quickly after eating small amounts, especially initially after surgery. Most patients may lose 10-15 lbs. That being said, as the body adapts, eating habits and appetites return to normal and the weight is regained. READ MORE
Is constipation normal after a bypass surgery?
Constipation is a common complaint after a gastric bypass. 1. Patients have relative dehydration after surgery. Dehydration will dry out your stool and make it harder to have a bowel movement. You should be drinking at least 60 oz of water every day. 2. If you have been taking prescription pain medication (narcotics), these will make you constipated. Two weeks after surgery, you are hopefully taking no pain medication, but if you have to, I would recommend taking Tylenol. READ MORE
Gallbladder removal
If it is safe for you, I would recommend taking anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen or naproxen. One of the other issues that causes discomfort after surgery is constipation. Ensure that you are having one soft bowel movement daily. If not, start a bowel regimen using colace, miralax, or something else over the counter. I quote my patients that it takes 2 weeks to feel about 80% recovered, but it may take 4-6 weeks to feel normal. READ MORE
Retracting testicle in adult following inguinal hernia repair
Some of the retraction is likely due to scarring and inflammation from surgery. This will shorten the tether on the testicle (the spermatic cord). I’ve only had one patient note this same complaint after surgery, so it’s not very common. I would suspect this should improve as time goes on. If it is bothersome, I recommend talking to your surgeon. READ MORE
Anal fissure
You should see a general surgeon or a colorectal surgeon. Orthopedic surgeons deal with bones and joints. READ MORE
What is the post operative care after a gastric surgery?
I suspect what you are describing is a Nissen fundoplication, the standard anti-reflux operation. This is typically done laparoscopically using a camera with small incisions. The incisions will be covered with surgical glue or tape. He should be able to shower and get the incisions wet as soon as he likes. The dressings will come off on their own in 10-14 days. I typically keep my patients on liquids for about 1 week, and then soft foods for another 1-2 weeks. The stomach can swell where the surgery is done, leading to reflux, regurgitation, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. As the swelling decreases, swallowing should improve, and he can progress his diet. It is quite normal to have a decreased energy level and appetite for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Patients lose about 10-15 pounds immediately after surgery, but everyone tends to put it back on. READ MORE
My stitches from the surgery hurt as they heal. Is it normal?
It is normal to have vague aches and pains in an incision for up to 2-3 months after surgery. Itching and burning are common; they are a sign of skin nerve regeneration. Stitches in general can also cause discomfort. If the pain is worsening, make sure to talk to your surgeon. READ MORE
How long after an appendix surgery can I resume swimming?
I would recommend avoiding getting into a pool until your incisions have healed completely, generally about 14 days. I would avoid strenuous activity (like racing) for about 2-4 weeks after surgery. As you resume activity, let pain be your guide. Soreness is typical, but pain is your body telling you to avoid an activity until you are better. The biggest risk is disrupting the repair of the muscle and developing a hernia by being too aggressive with activity early on. READ MORE
Will my facial surgery scars always remain?
Scars can heal over a period of 6-9 months. Facial scars tend to heal a little better due to better blood supply on the face. There is no way to make scars go away completely. If you are unhappy with your appearance, you may choose to see a plastic surgeon about other reconstructive options once all the wounds have healed completely. READ MORE
How soon after a c-section is it advisable to walk up the stairs?
I would tell her that she can walk up stairs whenever she feels comfortable. That is what I tell patients after any abdominal surgery. I wouldn't recommend strenuous activity or heavy lifting (>20 lbs), but things like walking upstairs, getting in and out of a car, and getting in and out of bed are fine. READ MORE
After my surgery I am passing traces of blood in my urine. Is it normal?
What kind of procedure did you have? If it was a urologic procedure (kidney, ureter, bladder) it is quite likely that hematuria (blood in the urine) is expected. I would check with urologist If that’s what you had done. The next question to ask is did you have a catheter in your bladder during or after surgery? If you did, the urethra can be irritated and hematuria is not uncommon for several days after removal. If the answer to both of those questions is no, I would contact your surgeon directly. Hematuria is not expected after most other abdominal operations. READ MORE
Are sugar levels taken into consideration during surgery?
Typically the anesthesiologist will check glucose levels prior to surgery and administer insulin as necessary. For a longer procedure, it will typically be monitored every hour. After the procedure, your blood glucose will be checked every 4-6 hours as appropriate. READ MORE
Why are my surgery stitches still not healing?
Itching is a normal sign of wound healing. It may take 3-4 weeks for the wound to seal completely. Worrisome signs including redness, heat, or drainage from the wound. If you have concerns, I would contact your surgeon immediately for an evaluation. If you have staples or external sutures, it is probably time for them to come out. READ MORE
Expert Publications
Data provided by the National Library of MedicineAreas of expertise and specialization
Faculty Titles & Positions
- Medical Director of Robotic Surgery Medical City Dallas Hospital 2016 - 2016
- Chair of the Advanced Clinical Advisory Board Medical City Dallas Hospital - 2016
- Chief of Surgery Medical City Dallas Hospital 2022 - Present
- Trauma Medical Director Medical City Dallas Hospital 2021 - Present
- Section Chief of General Surgery Medical City Dallas Hospital 2019 - 2021
Awards
- Top10MD 2019 Top10MD
- Top10MD 2018 Top10MD
- Top10MD 2017 Top10MD
Professional Memberships
- Texas Association for Bariatric Surgery
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons
- American College of Surgeons
- American Medical Association
- Obesity Medicine Association
Fellowships
- UC-San Francisco
Fellowships
- Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Professional Society Memberships
- Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, American College of Surgeons, Texas Medical Association, Dallas County Medical Society
What do you attribute your success to?
Good training and availability
Hobbies / Sports
- Spending Time With Family
Dr. Michael Sutker, MD's Practice location
Dr. Michael Sutker, MD's reviews
Write ReviewPatient Experience with Dr. Sutker
- Monica
Doctor Sutker was great and explained everything really well.
- Michael
Absolutely great!
- Ernest bore n
Great
- Morgan
I came in through the Er so had no prior experience with the Dr. He has been very attentive, caring and helpful with all of my questions and concerns.
- Casey
Dr. Sutker is so attentive. He provides exceptional support!
Amazing doctor and staff!
- Michael
Excellent bedside manners. Excellent care
- Dorothy
Great Doctor very professional
- Ronda
He saved my life! What's a better review than that.?
- Dorothy
Excellent care. Excellent bedside manners
- Robert
Helpful
- Nighat
He did good Job
- Damon
Excellent doctor . Kind and understanding. Gave great advice to help my problem.
- Robert
He was fantastic.
- Ana
Excellent
- Carol
Dr. Sutker was very knowledgeable, kind, professional and considerate. He made me feel relaxed and that he cared for me and my anxiety and that I was a person not a number.
- Elliot
I found dr sutker to be very professional but still personable. He answered all of my questions truthfully.
Great :)
- Abba
A bit of a wait but worth it. I felt the doctor really listened and addressed my concerns. Also knowledgeble.
- Phyllis
Good care. Talked me and answered all my questions.
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Media Releases
Get to know General Surgeon Dr. Michael Jason Sutker, who serves patients in Texas.
Dr. Sutker is a board-certified general surgeon who specializes in treating general surgery conditions with minimally invasive techniques, mostly utilizing robotic-assisted laparoscopy. He opened his practice, Michael Sutker, M.D., P.A., at Medical City Dallas in 2014 where he is the Medical Director of the Robotic Surgery Program & Section Chief for General Surgery.
At the beginning of 2019, he started a second office at Medical City McKinney to bring his skills and expertise to that area. Dr. Sutker is also a part of the Surgical Consultants of Dallas, LLC, and he maintains close ties with associate surgeons, including Dr. Sue Jiang, Dr. Christopher Bell, and Dr. Dina Madni.
A Plano, Texas native who graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Sutker earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. He then went on to complete his general surgical internship and residency at the same educational venue. He received additional fellowship training in minimal invasive and bariatric surgery at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center.
Skilled in the repair of abdominal wall defects, the doctor is board-certified in general surgery by the American Board of Surgery, an independent, non-profit organization located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, founded for the purpose of certifying surgeons who have met a defined standard of education, training, and knowledge.
In addition, he is board-certified in obesity surgery by the American Board of Obesity Medicine, which is a 501 nonprofit, self-appointed physician-evaluation organization that certifies physicians practicing obesity medicine.
Attributing his success to good training and availability, he has received specialty training in the surgical treatment of obesity, gastro-esophageal reflux disease, esophageal motility disorders, paraesophageal hernias, and inguinal and ventral hernias. He also has an extensive practice in emergency general surgery, managing problems such as appendicitis, cholecystitis, diverticulitis, and small bowel obstructions.
Remaining at the forefront of his challenging specialty via memberships with professional organizations, Dr. Sutker is a member of the American College of Surgeons (Fellow), the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, the American Medical Association, the Texas Medical Association, the Texas Association for Bariatric Surgery, the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (Fellow), the Dallas County Medical Society, and the Obesity Medicine Association.
He maintains the highest levels of accreditation and pursues ongoing education to stay abreast of the latest trends in the medical field. He also participates in regular continuing medical education and attends local and national conferences to stay abreast of new research and surgical techniques.
General surgery is a surgical specialty that focuses on abdominal contents including the esophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, appendix and bile ducts, and often the thyroid gland. A general surgeon performs a wide range of abdominal surgeries for many forms of intestinal and abdominal wall neoplasms, gallbladder disease, gastric and pancreatic disease. They follow the patient through critical care and surgical recovery all the way to outpatient care.
Among his numerous accolades, Dr. Sutker is the recipient of Patients’ Choice Award (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018), On-Time Doctor Award (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018), and Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2015, 2017).
Outside of practicing medicine, he enjoys spending time with family.
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