Our
Ophthalmologists
Dr Laurens van der Merwe
Ophthalmologist
FCOphth(SA), MMed (Stell)
Professional Registration
HPCSA No: MP0728225
Practice No: 1038036
Dr Van der Merwe practises as an ophthalmologist at Cape Gate Eye, where patients are evaluated and treated within a collaborative practice environment.
Professional background
Dr Van der Merwe is an ophthalmologist with a special interest in cataract surgery and vitreoretinal disease. His work includes the diagnosis and surgical management of conditions affecting the retina and other structures within the eye.
He obtained his MBChB degree from the University of the Free State in 2010. He later completed specialist training in ophthalmology and qualified as a Fellow of the College of Ophthalmologists of South Africa. He also obtained a Master of Medicine (MMed) in Ophthalmology from Stellenbosch University.
Through his specialist training and clinical experience, Dr Van der Merwe has gained extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of eye conditions.
Areas of special interest
Dr Van der Merwe has particular clinical interests in:
- Cataract surgery
- Vitreoretinal disease
- Retinal conditions
- Degenerative retinal disease, including macular degeneration
Professional and community involvement
Dr Van der Merwe remains involved in professional activities that support the delivery of specialist ophthalmology services. He works collaboratively with other healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and management of complex eye conditions.
He is also involved in cataract outreach programmes aimed at improving access to specialist eye care within the broader community.
Dr Sandra de Vasconcelos
Ophthalmologist
FCOphth(SA), MMed (UCT)
Professional Registration
HPCSA No: MP0748200
Practice No: 1185209
Dr De Vasconcelos practises as an ophthalmologist at Cape Gate Eye, where patients are evaluated and treated within a collaborative clinical environment.
Professional background
Dr De Vasconcelos has been practising in ophthalmology since 2016. She began her career at the Kimberley Hospital before relocating to Cape Town in 2019 to join the ophthalmology training programme at the University of Cape Town (UCT). She completed her specialist training and qualified as an ophthalmologist at UCT in 2023.
Since 2024, she has continued working within the UCT Ophthalmology Department as a specialist consultant while also practising in the private sector.
Dr De Vasconcelos’ work involves the diagnosis and management of a wide range of eye conditions affecting both the front and back of the eye. She is a clear and thoughtful communicator who places strong emphasis on careful clinical evaluation.
Areas of special interest
Dr De Vasconcelos has particular clinical interests in:
- Cataract surgery
- Glaucoma
- Corneal disease
Professional and community involvement
Dr De Vasconcelos engages in academic teaching and education at Groote Schuur Hospital, where she serves as a consultant in the subspecialty areas of glaucoma and corneal disease. In this role, she participates in the training of ophthalmology registrars to run clinics, while attending to more complex cases herself.
She is also involved in providing care to patients through a non-profit organisation in Athlone, Cape Town, and participates in cataract outreach programmes organised through UCT in the Garden Route region of the Southern Cape.