Dr Marissa
Willemse
Specialist Ophthalmologist & Ophthalmic Surgeon
Advanced specialist eye care for complex conditions, with a focus on preserving vision and providing clear, individualised treatment.

Specialist expertise.
Personal care.
Dr Marissa Willemse is a specialist ophthalmologist and ophthalmic surgeon with a strong focus on complex eye disease, advanced surgery and long-term vision preservation.
Her practice combines specialist clinical assessment with a broad scope of surgical and medical eye care, including glaucoma, cataract, retinal and corneal conditions.
Dr Willemse served as President of the South African Glaucoma Society from 2022 to 2026 and is now its Immediate Past President. She also serves as Director and CEO of Virida Day Hospital.
Qualifications
Clinical focus
- Glaucoma
- Cataract
- Retina
- Cornea
- General ophthalmic care

Specialist eye care
Complex Glaucoma Surgery
Advanced assessment and surgical management for glaucoma requiring specialist care.
Learn more →Complex Cataract Surgery
Specialist cataract surgery for cases requiring advanced planning and surgical expertise.
Learn more →Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Diagnosis, monitoring and management of macular changes affecting central vision.
Learn more →Diabetic Retinopathy
Specialist retinal assessment and management for diabetes-related eye changes.
Learn more →Retina Surgeries
Surgical care for retinal conditions where operative treatment is required.
Learn more →Corneal Transplant Surgeries
Specialist assessment and surgery for corneal disease requiring transplantation.
Learn more →Keratoconus Management
Diagnosis, monitoring and treatment planning for progressive corneal shape changes.
Learn more →General Eye Health
Practical guidance, prevention and specialist assessment to help protect healthy vision.
Learn more →General Ophthalmic Conditions
Specialist assessment and care for a broad range of adult eye conditions.
Learn more →A longstanding focus on glaucoma
Immediate Past President, South African Glaucoma Society (2022–2026)Glaucoma has been a major part of Dr Willemse’s clinical, surgical and professional work for many years. Her experience includes advanced glaucoma fellowships, modern glaucoma surgery and teaching at professional meetings and workshops.
Her leadership role in the South African Glaucoma Society reflects her longstanding commitment to glaucoma care, education and professional development.

How specialist care is approached
Clear communication and continuity of care are part of the patient experience from the first consultation onward.
Assess
Symptoms, history and eye health are carefully evaluated.
Explain
Findings and diagnoses are discussed in understandable language.
Treat
Medical, laser or surgical treatment is considered where appropriate.
Monitor
Ongoing follow-up helps protect vision over the long term.
Contact the practice
For appointments, referrals or specialist eye concerns, contact the practice directly.
Dr Marissa Willemse
Specialist Ophthalmologist & Ophthalmic Surgeon

