Patient Care People

Meet Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology Matthew Rohlfing

Photo of Matt Rohlfing and partner Kelley Newman
Matthew Rohlfing, MD, and partner Kelley Newman enjoy a hike in the snow.

Matthew Rohlfing, MD, is the newest member of the Division of Laryngology in the Department of Otolaryngology at Washington University. Here he shares his excitement to return and practice in his home community and his love of gardening.

Where are you from originally?

I grew up in Kirkwood, MO. And, since everyone will ask, I went to high school at Westminster Christian Academy.

Where are you joining us from?

Rohlfing and Newman at the St. Louis Arch.
Rohlfing and Newman on a recent visit to the St. Louis Arch.

Most recently, I completed a fellowship in Laryngology and Professional Voice at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. Before that, I attended Wake Forest University for my undergraduate and medical degrees, then completed a residency in otolaryngology at Boston University.

What are you most excited about with your new journey at WashU?

I am excited to apply all the education and skills I have been accumulating to care for patients. I am especially excited to be able to do so in my home community here in St. Louis. WashU has been very supportive helping me build my clinical practice as well as applying my interests in research and education.

What made you choose otolaryngology for a medical specialty?

I knew early in training that I wanted to be a surgeon. In otolaryngology, I found a specialty with a fascinating combination of intense and intricate surgery, a dynamic outpatient clinic, and consistently wonderful people. In my specialty of Laryngology, I love the range of services I can provide to help patients with voice, swallow, and breathing problems, including many procedures which are done awake and in the office!

Any hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy gardening. We bought a house in University City, and much of our time is spent with our plants. I also enjoy cooking, fitness, and playing volleyball. I am a life-long St. Louis Cardinals fan!