Dr Liezel Van Der Merwe – Ophthalmologist – Arcadia

Dr Liezel Van Der Merwe – Ophthalmologist – Arcadia

Dr Liezel Van Der Merwe is an Ophthalmologist at Pretoria Eye Institute in Arcadia. She specializes in medical retina, ocular inflammatory disease, cataract and pterygium surgery, and glaucoma. She earned her MBChB at the University of Stellenbosch, then completed her Ophthalmology training at the University of the Witwatersrand, including rotations at St John’s Eye Hospital. Consequently, Dr Van Der Merwe brings over 25 years of experience in comprehensive eye care. Moreover, her passion for scientific research led her to co-chair the Scientific and Medical Advisory Board for Retina South Africa, where she guides studies on retinal disorders.

In addition, she regularly mentors colleagues and offers training to eye care professionals. Therefore, patients benefit from her evidence-based approach and compassionate bedside manner. As a result, she ensures clear communication and personalized treatment plans for every individual.

Services

• Medical Retina Management
  Dr Van Der Merwe diagnoses and treats age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinal disease, and inherited retinal disorders using advanced optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography. Consequently, she devises tailored plans that may include anti-VEGF intravitreal injections or laser photocoagulation to preserve and optimize vision.

• Ocular Inflammatory Disease
  By combining clinical assessment with advanced imaging, she manages uveitis and related inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, she coordinates care with rheumatologists and internal medicine specialists to address systemic factors affecting eye health.

• Cataract and Pterygium Surgery
  Utilizing state-of-the-art phacoemulsification equipment and micro-incision techniques, Dr Van Der Merwe offers minimally invasive cataract extraction with premium intraocular lens (IOL) options. Additionally, she performs conjunctival autografting for pterygium, reducing recurrence rates and restoring ocular surface health.

• Glaucoma Diagnosis and Management
  Dr Van Der Merwe employs OCT of the optic nerve head and visual field analysis to detect early glaucoma. Moreover, she provides trabeculectomy, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) to preserve visual fields and control intraocular pressure effectively.

• General Ophthalmology Consultations
  She evaluates a broad range of ocular conditions—such as dry eye syndrome, ocular surface disorders, and ocular tumours—using slit-lamp biomicroscopy, digital fundus photography, and other diagnostic tools. Therefore, patients receive comprehensive, individualized care.

Additional Information

Pretoria Eye Institute in Arcadia is a modern facility equipped with a dedicated laser suite, multiple operating theatres, and high-resolution diagnostic imaging systems. Additionally, its integrated setup includes ultrasound biomicroscopy, digital fundus cameras, and OCT units, ensuring seamless diagnostics and treatment under one roof. Consequently, patients benefit from efficient care pathways, reduced wait times, and a comfortable, patient-centered environment.

Furthermore, Dr Van Der Merwe collaborates closely with optometrists, endocrinologists, and rheumatologists to deliver multidisciplinary care for complex cases—especially those involving diabetes mellitus and autoimmune disorders. Moreover, she mentors junior ophthalmologists and frequently offers training sessions for eye care professionals. Finally, outside her clinical and academic commitments, she enjoys travelling, scuba diving, and golf, reflecting her balanced, patient-focused philosophy.

For expert ophthalmic evaluation and treatment tailored to your needs, schedule a consultation today with Dr Liezel Van Der Merwe at Pretoria Eye Institute.