ABOUT
Dr Dean van der Westhuizen is a specialist ophthalmic surgeon in Mbombela (Nelspruit) with advanced expertise in retinal and cataract surgery. After graduating MBChB from UCT, he trained at Groote Schuur Hospital, gaining broad surgical experience. A founding member of the Lowveld Eye Institute, he offers precision care in complex retinal and cataract surgery. He serves patients from Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Eswatini, and Mozambique, where services are limited, conveniently located just 2 hours from Maputo. Dean combines surgical innovation with patient-first care, continuing a legacy of excellence.
Services includes :
- Retinal Detachment Repair
A retinal detachment is a serious condition where the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, threatening vision. Retinal detachment repair involves advanced microsurgery techniques to reattach the retina and restore stability. Early treatment is critical to prevent permanent vision loss. Dr Dean offers precise, tailored procedures to safeguard sight. - Diabetic Vitrectomy
In patients with diabetic eye disease, blood vessels may bleed into the vitreous gel inside the eye, causing vision loss. A diabetic vitrectomy carefully removes this vitreous gel and clears blood and scar tissue. This improves vision and helps prevent further complications from diabetic retinopathy. - Macular Hole Surgery
A macular hole is a small break in the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. This can cause blurred or distorted central vision. Macular hole surgery gently removes vitreous traction and uses a gas bubble to help the macula heal, restoring clearer vision. - Cataract Surgery (Routine and Complex)
Cataracts cause clouding of the natural lens, leading to blurred vision, glare, and reduced quality of life. Cataract surgery replaces the cloudy lens with a clear intraocular lens implant. Dr Dean specializes in both routine and complex cataract procedures, providing excellent outcomes even in challenging cases. - Epiretinal Membrane Peeling
An epiretinal membrane (ERM) is a thin layer of scar tissue that can form on the retina, causing vision to appear blurred or distorted. Epiretinal membrane peeling is a delicate surgery that removes this tissue, helping to improve visual clarity and reduce distortion. - Vitreomacular Traction Surgery
Vitreomacular traction occurs when the vitreous gel inside the eye pulls abnormally on the macula, leading to blurred or wavy vision. Surgery relieves this traction by carefully removing the vitreous gel, allowing the macula to return to its natural shape and improving central vision.
