AMD – Age Related Mascular Degeneration

Yes, but your retinopathy must be stable and any macular swelling treated before undergoing cataract surgery. Diabetes can sometimes make cataract surgery more complex, so a detailed pre-operative assessment at our Erasmuskloof ophthalmology practice is essential to ensure a safe recovery. 

PRP is a laser procedure used to shrink abnormal blood vessels and prevent them from bleeding or causing a retinal detachment. While it may slightly reduce your peripheral or night vision, it is a sight-saving treatment used for “Proliferative” retinopathy to prevent total blindness. 

Yes, uncontrolled high blood pressure significantly increases the risk and speed of diabetic vision loss. Managing your “ABC’s” (A1c, Blood pressure, and Cholesterol) is a collaborative effort between you, your GP, and your ophthalmologist in Pretoria to protect your long-term sight. 

Most diabetic patients require a comprehensive, dilated eye examination at least once a year, or more frequently if retinopathy is already present. Even if your vision feels “perfect,” microscopic changes can occur that only a specialist at Kloof Eye can detect using advanced OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scans. 

Anti-VEGF injections are the gold-standard treatment for Diabetic Macular Oedema (DME) and can significantly reduce swelling and improve vision. These injections work by blocking the signals that cause leaky blood vessels to grow; Kloof Eye performs these in a sterile, comfortable environment to ensure the best possible visual outcome. 

New or sudden floaters can be a sign of vitreous haemorrhage, where fragile new blood vessels bleed into the jelly of the eye. If you see “cobwebs,” spots, or a dark curtain in your vision, it is a medical emergency that requires an urgent dilated eye exam at our Erasmuskloof facilities. 

Some vision loss caused by swelling (macular oedema) can be improved with treatment, but permanent scarring or nerve damage cannot be reversed. This is why early detection via Digital Retinal Imaging at our Northern Gauteng practice is vital, as we can often treat the disease before you even notice a change in your sight. 

Diabetic Retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by high blood sugar, and while it cannot be “cured,” it can be successfully managed. At our Kloof Eye rooms, our goal is to stabilise your vision and prevent further leakage or scarring through laser treatments, injections, or surgery. 

You should seek a specialist evaluation if over-the-counter drops no longer provide relief or if your vision is becoming frequently blurred. Chronic inflammation from untreated Dry Eye can damage the corneal surface; our team at Kloof Eye uses advanced diagnostic tools to create a customised management plan for you.

Excessive tearing is often a reflex response to the irritation caused by an underlying lack of quality, lubricating tears. When the eye surface becomes too dry, the brain signals for an emergency flood of “watery” tears, which lack the necessary oils to stay on the eye, leading to a cycle of dryness and tearing.

Yes, Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are clinically proven to improve the quality of the oil layer in your tears and reduce ocular inflammation. We often recommend specific pharmaceutical-grade supplements as part of a holistic treatment plan to support your long-term eye health in the dry Pretoria environment.

Punctal plugs are tiny, biocompatible inserts placed in the tear ducts to block drainage and keep your natural tears on the eye longer. This quick, painless “in-chair” procedure at our Erasmuskloof rooms can be temporary (dissolvable) or long-lasting (silicone), depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Blue light filters do not treat Dry Eye, but reducing screen glare and following the “20-20-20 rule” can significantly decrease digital eye strain. Because we blink 60% less when looking at screens, patients in the Constantia Park and Waterkloof areas often find that scheduled “blink breaks” help maintain a healthy tear layer during the workday.

MGD is a condition where the oil-producing glands in your eyelids become blocked, causing your tears to evaporate too quickly. This is the leading cause of “Evaporative Dry Eye”; we use specialised diagnostic imaging in Pretoria East to check these glands and recommend targeted treatments like warm compresses or clinical lid expressions.

While there is no permanent “cure” for chronic Dry Eye, modern treatments can provide long-term relief and reduce your dependence on daily drops. By identifying the root cause—such as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)—our specialists at Kloof Eye can implement advanced therapies that restore your natural tear film balance.

Dry Eye Syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears, often exacerbated by Pretoria’s dry Highveld climate and air conditioning. At our Erasmuskloof practice, we treat patients whose symptoms are worsened by the low humidity and dust common in the Gauteng region, leading to persistent grittiness, redness, and blurred vision.

The best way to slow the growth of a pterygium is strict UV protection and the frequent use of lubricating eye drops. For our patients in Gauteng, wearing high-quality, wrap-around sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat whenever outdoors is the most effective “preventative therapy” to reduce inflammation and avoid surgical intervention. 

Most South African medical aids cover Pterygium surgery if it is medically necessary due to chronic inflammation or visual impairment. If the removal is purely for aesthetic reasons, it may be viewed as a “cosmetic” procedure; we recommend confirming your benefits with providers like Discovery or Momentum prior to your surgery. 

Most patients can return to work within 2 to 3 days, although the eye may remain red for several weeks. You should avoid swimming, dusty environments, and rubbing your eye for at least two weeks; we provide a clear recovery timeline to ensure a smooth result. 

The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic or sedation and typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Most patients in Pretoria East feel a “gritty” sensation for a few days after surgery, which is managed with prescribed eye drops and simple analgesics until the surface heals. 

While older techniques had high recurrence rates, modern autograft surgery reduces the risk of the growth returning to less than 5%. Following post-operative instructions—specifically wearing UV-protective sunglasses outdoors in Pretoria—is essential to protect the healing site and prevent new tissue overgrowth. 

A conjunctival autograft involves taking a tiny piece of your own healthy tissue to cover the area where the pterygium was removed. This advanced technique is the most effective way to prevent the pterygium from growing back; by using your own tissue in our Erasmuskloof theatre, we significantly reduce the risk of recurrence compared to older surgical methods. 

Surgery is usually recommended if the growth causes persistent irritation, affects your vision, or becomes cosmetically bothersome. At Kloof Eye, we advise removal if the pterygium begins to “pull” on the cornea, causing astigmatism, or if it grows toward the centre of your pupil and threatens your sight. 

A pterygium is a non-cancerous, fleshy growth that develops on the white of the eye and can spread onto the cornea. While it is not a malignancy, it is often called “Surfer’s Eye” in South Africa because it is primarily caused by long-term exposure to UV light, dust, and the dry Highveld wind. 

A pterygium is a non-cancerous, fleshy growth that develops on the white of the eye and can spread onto the cornea. While it is not a malignancy, it is often called “Surfer’s Eye” in South Africa because it is primarily caused by long-term exposure to UV light, dust, and the dry Highveld wind. 

Your ability to drive depends on whether your central vision meets the South African legal requirements for visual acuity. If AMD has caused significant “blind spots” in your focus, it may no longer be safe or legal to operate a vehicle; we will assess your functional vision during your follow-up in Gauteng. 

No, Macular Degeneration typically only affects your central “detail” vision and does not result in total blindness. You will generally retain your peripheral vision, allowing you to move around safely, though tasks like reading small print or sewing will become significantly more challenging. 

Clinical studies have shown that a specific blend of antioxidants and zinc (AREDS2 formula) can reduce the risk of advanced AMD by 25%. We recommend these high-dose supplements for patients at the intermediate stage of the disease; however, they do not cure AMD or restore vision that has already been lost. 

Yes, anti-VEGF injections are the gold standard for stopping the leakage of abnormal blood vessels and preserving vision in Wet AMD. These regular injections—using drugs like Avastin, Lucentis, or Eylea—can often stabilise vision and, in many cases, lead to a significant improvement in visual clarity. 

The most common warning signs include straight lines appearing wavy, sudden blurring of central vision, or a dark spot in your focus. If you notice these changes while in the Waterkloof or Constantia Park areas, you must contact Kloof Eye for an urgent dilated eye exam and OCT imaging. 

Yes, Dry AMD can progress into the more aggressive Wet form at any stage of the disease. Because this transition can happen quickly, we provide our Erasmuskloof patients with an Amsler Grid for daily home monitoring to catch early signs of wavy lines or “blind spots” in their central vision. 

Dry AMD involves the gradual thinning of the macula, while Wet AMD is caused by abnormal blood vessels leaking fluid or blood into the eye. Dry AMD is more common and progresses slowly; however, Wet AMD is a medical emergency in Pretoria East that can cause rapid, severe vision loss if not treated immediately. 

AMD is a progressive eye condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. At Kloof Eye, we diagnose AMD by identifying “drusen” (yellow deposits) which can blur your ability to read, drive, or recognise faces, though your side (peripheral) vision usually remains intact. 

You must avoid rubbing your eyes, wearing contact lenses, and heavy lifting for at least two weeks post-op. For our DCR patients in Constantia Park and Waterkloof, it is also critical not to blow your nose for the first 10 days to prevent air from being forced under the skin or causing a nosebleed. 

Medical aids typically cover DCR surgery and functional Blepharoplasty if a visual field test proves your sight is impaired. If the surgery is purely for aesthetic rejuvenation, it is classified as “cosmetic” and is usually an out-of-pocket expense; we recommend checking with providers like Discovery or Momentum regarding your specific plan benefits. 

A soft silicone tube is temporarily placed in the new drainage channel to keep it open while the internal tissues heal. This stent is usually invisible to others and is easily removed by our specialists in Pretoria during a quick, painless follow-up visit roughly 6 to 12 weeks after the procedure. 

Endoscopic DCR is often preferred because it is performed entirely through the nostril, leaving no external scar on the face. During your consultation at Kloof Eye, we will evaluate your nasal anatomy to determine if the “scarless” endoscopic approach or the traditional external method will provide the most reliable long-term drainage for you. 

A DCR is a specialised surgery to create a new drainage pathway between the tear sac and the nose to bypass a blocked tear duct. At our Erasmuskloof rooms, we perform this to resolve chronic “watery eyes” (epiphora) and prevent recurrent, painful infections caused by stagnant tears. 

Most patients return to work and social activities within 7 to 10 days, though full healing continues for several weeks. You should expect some bruising and swelling—often described as a “black eye” effect—which can be managed with cold compresses and by avoiding strenuous exercise in the dry Gauteng heat for the first two weeks. 

No, incisions for Blepharoplasty are carefully hidden within the natural creases of the upper eyelid or just inside the lower lid. At Kloof Eye, our surgical techniques focus on “invisible” healing; most patients find that any redness fades rapidly, leaving a refreshed look without obvious signs of surgery. 

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin or fat from the eyelids, and it can be both functional and cosmetic. While many patients in Pretoria East seek eyelid surgery for a rejuvenated appearance, it is often medically necessary if sagging upper lids (ptosis) obstruct your peripheral vision or cause heavy eye strain. 

While distance vision correction is usually permanent, most patients will still require reading glasses after age 40 due to presbyopia. Laser surgery corrects your current prescription, but it does not stop the natural aging of the eye’s internal lens; however, we can discuss “Monovision” options if you wish to reduce your dependence on readers later in life.

Modern refractive surgery is exceptionally safe, with complication rates typically sitting well below 1% for experienced surgeons. While temporary side effects like night-time “halos,” glare, or dry eyes are common during the first few weeks, serious long-term risks are rare when patients are screened correctly at a specialist facility like Kloof Eye Medical.

Most South African medical aids view refractive surgery as an elective “lifestyle” procedure and do not cover the full cost. However, some plans allow you to use your Medical Savings Account (MSA) for the theatre fees or pre-operative scans; we recommend checking with your provider (e.g., Discovery or Momentum) before your consultation.

The total cost for both eyes generally ranges from R18,000 for basic laser to R55,000 for advanced Phakic ICL procedures. At Kloof Eye, our pricing reflects the latest Schwind or Zeiss laser technology and the cost of premium imported implants, ensuring you receive world-class care right here in Pretoria.

You must strictly avoid rubbing your eyes and keep tap water, swimming pool water, and sweat out of your eyes for at least two weeks. Proper aftercare is vital to prevent infection; we provide specific protective shields and medicated drops at our Erasmuskloof rooms to ensure your eyes heal without complication.

Light exercise like jogging is usually safe within 3 days, but contact sports must be avoided for up to 6 months after LASIK. Because a LASIK flap remains delicate, patients in the Constantia Park and Waterkloof areas are advised to choose PRK if they participate in high-impact sports like rugby or martial arts.

Most LASIK and Phakic IOL patients meet the South African legal driving standard within 24 to 48 hours post-op. For PRK patients, the healing of the surface layer can cause temporary blurring, so we advise waiting until your follow-up appointment at Kloof Eye before getting back behind the wheel.

LASIK and Phakic lens patients often return to work within 48 hours, while PRK recovery typically takes 1 to 2 weeks. While the initial “functional” vision returns quickly for most patients at our Pretoria East practice, the final visual stability—especially with PRK—can continue to improve over several months.

LASIK and PRK use lasers to permanently reshape the cornea, whereas Phakic surgery involves placing a removable lens inside the eye. LASIK is known for rapid recovery, PRK for its flapless safety on thin corneas, and Phakic ICLs for treating very high prescriptions that lasers cannot safely reach.

Chronic dry eye can make LASIK unsuitable, but surface-based PRK or Phakic ICLs are often successful alternatives. Since LASIK involves creating a corneal flap that can temporarily worsen dryness, our specialists in Erasmuskloof often recommend Phakic IOLs for patients with pre-existing dry eye, as this procedure leaves the corneal nerves largely untouched.

Yes, while thin corneas may disqualify you from LASIK, you may still be an excellent candidate for PRK or Phakic Lens Implants. Because PRK is a surface-level treatment and Phakic lenses are implanted behind the iris, they do not require a corneal flap, making them safer alternatives for patients in Gauteng with thinner corneal tissue.

Ideal candidates are generally aged 20 to 45 with a stable prescription for at least 12 months and healthy corneas. At Kloof Eye in Pretoria, we perform a comprehensive screening to ensure your eye anatomy is suited for laser correction, as factors like pupil size and corneal mapping determine your safety profile.