General Surgery FAQs
What to Expect at Muskegon Surgical Associates
If you’re preparing for a surgical consultation or procedure at MSA, you’re not alone. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you feel informed and confident about your care.
What can I expect during my initial surgical consultation?
At your initial surgical consultation, you will undergo a physical exam and review your medical history, current condition, lifestyle factors, and any concerns you may have. You may also need diagnostic tests such as imaging or lab work. Once the results are reviewed, your surgeon will explain personalized treatment options, including their risks, benefits, and next steps. Our goal is to ensure you understand your options and feel supported in your care journey.
What should I bring to my surgical consult appointment?
To make the most of your appointment, please bring:
-
Your photo ID and insurance card
-
Relevant medical records or recent test results
-
A list of your current medications
-
Contact info for your referring provider (if applicable)
-
Any questions or concerns you’d like to discuss
To save time, we encourage you to complete your patient intake forms online through your patient portal or download and print them ahead of time. If you’re unsure what to bring or where to start, don’t hesitate to call our office—our friendly staff is here to help.
What conditions do general surgeons treat?
Our general surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat a wide variety of conditions. Common procedures and treatments include:
-
Hernias
-
Appendectomies
-
Gallbladder removal
-
Bowel obstruction or diverticulitis
-
Colonoscopies
-
Breast procedures
-
Skin lesion excision
-
Thyroid surgery
-
Stomach and abdominal conditions
-
Trauma-related injuries
At Muskegon Surgical Associates, we’re proud to offer comprehensive, expert surgical care close to home.
What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?
Minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures, is performed through small incisions using specialized tools and tiny cameras. This advanced technique offers several benefits, such as:
-
Shorter recovery time
-
Less pain after surgery
-
Minimal blood loss
-
Lower risk of infection
-
Smaller, less noticeable scars
Our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to improve outcomes and reduce downtime for our patients.
Colonoscopy FAQs
Colonoscopy is a routine but vital procedure we perform at MSA to screen for colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal issues.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a surgeon to examine the inner lining of your colon (large intestine) using a thin, flexible camera. It’s most commonly used to detect polyps, inflammation, and early signs of colon cancer.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
Preparation is key to a successful colonoscopy. Your provider will give you detailed instructions that usually include:
-
Following a clear liquid diet for a day prior
-
Taking prescribed bowel prep medications to clean out your colon
-
Avoiding certain medications as instructed
Our team will walk you through the steps to make the process as smooth as possible.
Is a colonoscopy painful?
Not typically. Most patients receive sedation or anesthesia during the procedure, making it pain-free and comfortable. You may feel mild bloating afterward, but this usually resolves quickly.
How long does a colonoscopy take?
The procedure itself takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Including prep, check-in, and recovery, you can expect to spend around 2–3 hours total at our clinic.
Have a different question?
We’re here to help! Please call our office directly or submit your question using our contact form, and a member of our team will respond promptly.