“This Surgeon and Mom-of-Three Is Changing Kids’ Lives by Correcting Birth Defects”
Dr. Rachel A. Ruotolo was recently featured in The Everymom and discusses what it’s like to be a mother of three and a craniofacial plastic surgeon. This article covers Dr. Ruotolo’s highlights and challenges of her career and passion for helping children who are born with birth defects. “What’s amazing about craniofacial surgery is that I am able to specifically and immediately make a difference and help the patient” she explains, “Right after an operation, the difference is visible right away.” Through her work with Child Abuse Prevention Services, Long Island’s leading non-profit resource on the prevention of child abuse and neglect, she educates and helps to reduce the stigma around birth defects. She says, “I take every opportunity to speak about cleft lip and palate and how common it is in our surrounding community. It’s my goal to raise awareness and educate families.” She also gives her perspective on motherhood and reflects on how her kids motivate and inspire her every day.
“How to Cope When You Receive a Scary Medical Diagnosis for Your Child”
In this Motherly article, Dr. Ruotolo provides tips to follow that can help parents dealing with a child’s scary diagnosis. She discusses her specialty as a pediatric plastic surgeon and says, “My role is not only to perform the operation itself, but I’m also serving as a guide, counselor and confidante, to the families of the patients that I treat.” With proper education, open communication, support and trust, you can prepare for the process. Remember, you are not alone, and others are dealing with similar experiences!
“#MakingTime: A Day in the Life of a New York Craniofacial Plastic Surgeon With Young Kids”
This FairyGodBoss article tells readers what a day to day for Dr. Ruotolo consists of, and has us wondering, “How does she manage to fit all of this into 24 hours?” She discusses what she does from the moment she wakes at 4AM, until she arrives home at the end of the day, around 10 or 11PM. Her days consist of nonstop operations, meeting and diagnosing patients, hospital visits, consulting with colleagues, tending to trauma cases and more. No two days are alike, and although it can be exhausting at times, her motivation has always been to help others and make a difference in their lives.
“First Time Parent Magazine: About Face”
Last December, Dr. Ruotolo was the featured cover story for First Time Parent Magazine, which provided a Q&A about craniofacial surgery and suggestions for parents who are considering surgery for their child. In this article, Dr. Ruotolo helps parents better understand the process to recovery, and adds reassurance that their child can live a normal life.
