General Surgical Conditions
Anal fistulas
An anal fistula is a small channel that can develop between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus. An anal fistula can cause bleeding and discharge when passing stools - and can be painful. An anal fistula can occur after surgery to drain an anal abscess. In...
Anal fissures
An anal fissure is a small tear or crack in the lining of the anus. It may occur when passing large or hard stools, straining during childbirth, or experiencing bouts of diarrhoea. An anal fissure can cause sharp pain and bleeding during and after bowel movements. It...
Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids are swollen veins located around the anus or in the lower rectum. About 50 percent of adults experienced the symptoms of haemorrhoids by the age of 50. Haemorrhoids can either be internal or external. Internal haemorrhoids develop within the anus or...
Gastrointestinal haemorrhage
Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a serious sign of trouble within your digestive tract. Your digestive tract consists of the following organs: Oesophagus Stomach Small intestine (including the duodenum) Large intestine or colon Rectum Anus GI bleeding can occur in...
Intestinal obstruction
What is Intestinal Obstruction? Digested food particles must travel through 25 feet of intestines or more before new wastes enter your body. These wastes are constantly in motion, but an intestinal obstruction can block the passage of fluid or digested food. An...
Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is a painful inflammation of the pancreas, located in the upper left side of your abdomen, behind the stomach and near the small intestine. It produces and distributes insulin, digestive enzymes and other necessary hormones. There are direct and...
Diverticulitis
Diverticula are bulging sacs or small blisters that appear in the lining of your large intestine, or colon. This condition is called diverticulosis when the sacs first appear but aren’t yet inflamed or infected. When these sacs get acutely infected or inflamed, it’s...
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a pouch-shaped organ connected to the large intestine. If you don’t get treatment for it, the appendix can rupture, which can be life-threatening. When there’s an obstruction in the appendix, bacteria can multiply...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). Irritable bowel syndrome commonly causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea and constipation. IBS is a chronic condition that you will need to manage long...
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, lower oesophagus, or small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is burning abdominal pain that extends from the navel to the chest. Untreated ulcers can become worse over time and lead...
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which the stomach contents leak backwards from the stomach into the oesophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). This can irritate the oesophagus and cause heartburn and other symptoms. Causes When you...
Thyroid Swelling (Goitre)
A goitre is an enlarged thyroid gland. The goitre may form as a result of the thyroid gland being either underactive or overactive, but this is not always the case – there are a range of potential reasons a goitre develops. Diffuse Smooth Goitre This means that the...
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is an uncontrolled growth of breast cells which eventually form into tumours. A tumour can be benign (not dangerous to health) or malignant (has the potential to be dangerous). Benign tumours are not considered cancerous. Malignant tumours are cancerous....
Colorectal cancer
What is cancer of the colon and rectum? Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), the lower part of your digestive system. Rectal cancer is cancer of the last several inches of the colon. Together, they're often referred to as colorectal cancers. Most...
Gallstones
What are the symptoms of gallstones? You may not experience any symptoms if you have gallstones. According to the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), 80 percent of people who have gallstones don’t have any pain at all. These are called “silent” gallstones....
Umbilical Hernia
What Is an Umbilical Hernia? The umbilical cord connects a mother and her foetus while in the womb. Babies’ umbilical cords pass through a small opening in their stomach muscles. In most cases, the hole closes soon after birth. An umbilical hernia occurs when the...
Inguinal (Groin) Hernias
What Is an Inguinal Hernia? An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin area when fatty or intestinal tissues push through the inguinal canal which is at the base of the abdomen. In men, the testes usually descend through this canal shortly before birth. In women, the...
Testimonials
“I was “assigned” (for lack of a better word) to Dr du Plessis when I was admitted to Milnerton Mediclinic with an emergency over the festive season. He happened to be the surgeon on call that evening, which turned out to be very lucky for me. Not only is he excellent at what he does, but he also has a wonderful bedside manner.
Dr du Plessis took the time to answer all my questions, explained clearly what was happening, and put my mind at ease — while, of course, getting me firmly on the road to recovery. I felt completely safe in his care, confident in his knowledge, skill, and expertise.
He is also backed by a truly phenomenal team. As part of my outpatient follow-up, I needed to visit his rooms and undergo a further procedure. I was looked after by Joelene, Tanya, and Sr Corne. They are warm, friendly, efficient, and absolute pros in their respective fields — genuine gems, every one of them. They have a rare ability to make you feel like you’re their only patient, whether you’re calling about appointment scheduling, the procedure itself, or navigating medical aid queries (what a nightmare!). I never once had to wonder what my next steps were, and I was treated with kindness, care, and a very gentle touch throughout.
I’m almost back to full power, and that’s thanks to Dr du Plessis and his outstanding team (and some pretty good meds 😂).”
- Shani Pretorius
“Dr Maré du Plessis is an amazing Specialist Surgeon and I can most definitely recommend him for gastroscopies and colonoscopies.
I was extremely anxious about the procedure (and let's not forget the "White Coat Syndrome"), but Dr du Plessis is extremely knowledgeable, kind, patient, understanding and compassionate. He constantly asks if you have questions and takes his time to answer and explain - no rushing.
The rest of the team, Joelene (the receptionist) was always professional, helpful and friendly. Sister Corné was there every step of the way with her calming, bubbly personality...definitely a calling!
Tanya the accountant was just a call away to assist with Medical Aid claims. What a positive experience! Thank you Dr Maré du Plessis and team!”
- Frieda Angerer
“Such a phenomenal doctor and surgeon. He removed my gallbladder in an emergency situation.
Prior to the surgery he explained the procedure to me and I felt incredibly confident in his ability. Post surgery he saw me on the ward to check I was OK. He also did ward rounds until my discharge. Upon discharge I was given ample medication and understood what each medication was for.
My final consolidation was excellent and I cannot recommend this doctor highly enough. Thank you for the excellent treatment of a 74 year old.”
- Barbara Fuller-gee
“My mother received exceptional care from Dr. M. Du Plessis. From the very beginning, he took the time to explain everything thoroughly, ensuring that we understood the diagnosis, treatment options, and next steps. His professionalism, patience, and compassionate approach gave me great confidence and peace of mind. He made me feel assured that my mother was in capable hands and would be well taken care of throughout her treatment. I am truly grateful for the excellent care and attention he provided. Highly recommended.”
- Nkcuba
“Some Heroes don't wear capes, they wear surgical masks - Dr Mare Du Plessis is without a doubt my hero. Some 5+ years ago he did corrective surgery on me for an incisional hernia and he literally saved my life....I had to have surgery almost every year prior to me meeting him...he fixed whatever the other Doctors could not fix and gave me back my life! I will forever be thankful to this brilliant, kind and gentle surgeon - Dr. Maré Du Plessis! I
Highly Recommend him and Trust him with my Life!”
- Thomas Bloem
“I must say, I’ve previously only gone to gastroenterologists for colonoscopies, and I didn’t realise you could see a surgeon for this procedure. Dr. Duplessis was absolutely fantastic.
From start to finish, the experience was professional, efficient, and incredibly well handled. The nurses were attentive and on the ball, and everyone was so kind and friendly, which really put me at ease. The anaesthetist was lovely too, which made the whole process feel calm and reassuring.
I would highly recommend Dr. Duplessis to anyone needing a colonoscopy.”
- Susy De Mendonca
“There are no words that could truly express our gratitude for everything you did for Greg after his accident last year. During one of the most frightening and uncertain times of our lives, your skill, dedication, and compassion gave us hope when we needed it most.
Because of you, Greg was given a second chance. The road to recovery was long and challenging, but thanks to your incredible care and the work you did to save his life, he has come so far.
I wanted to share something special with you. Greg has started riding his motorbike again. Watching him do something he loves so much is incredibly emotional for our family. It’s a reminder of how precious life is and how different our story could have been if it weren’t for you and your team.
You didn’t just save Greg’s life—you gave him the opportunity to make more memories with his family, to continue doing what brings him joy, and to be here with us. That is a gift we will never take for granted.
Please know that we think of you often and will always be grateful for your expertise, kindness, and commitment. Thank you for everything you have done for our family. You will always hold a very special place in our hearts.”
- Bernadene Waddington and the Waddington family
“It was such a pleasure to visit Dr Maré du Plessis and his personnel … from the receptionist, sister, and anaesthetist … all excellent … so friendly and helpful … Dr du Plessis is very lucky to have such good personnel … well done all … 10/10.”
- Thea Groenewald
“From the first moment my family and I met Dr du Plessis, my heart and mind were at ease. Thank you for your true patience and kindness answering all my lists of questions. Thank you for treating me with true kindness. The process since my first consultation until the operation was explained so clearly. The operation was a huge success. The best surgeon ever, meticulous in his job as a surgeon and I would highly recommend Dr Maré du Plessis, the most kind doctor. I will forever be grateful to our Father God and to you Dr du Plessis.”
- Elza Kallis
"Dr du Plessis, simply said—BRILLIANT and honest with his feedback and advice … would recommend him to anyone."
- Colleen De Beer
"My surgeon who dealt with my cancer journey. Couldn’t have been in better hands! Incredibly compassionate and experienced."
- Pauline McMaster De Klerk
“From the receptionist Joelene, to Tanya in accounts and the nurse who takes you through the procedure—you will be going through, Dr du Plessis' staff are amazing. From the first time I called to make an appointment, I was treated with love. That’s the only way I can put it. This practice is unique. Joelene always remembers my voice and has so much patience and an amazingly friendly personality who puts you at ease (especially when I’m calling to move dates around and get more info). They give you all the information you need—Tanya in Accounts broke down the expenses for me so that I had more than an idea of what to expect.
Dr du Plessis himself is so passionate about his patients. Even as a new patient, I felt it. He takes his time, does not rush through anything. And you’re guaranteed to not have any questions because he explains everything in detail. He is very kind and compassionate. Super friendly. I will come back and rate him on his bedside manner after my procedure, but based on his consultation manner, I’d give him full 5 stars. Attentive, observant, reassuring, exhibits full knowledge of his profession, and even extra with knowledge that gets deep into other specialties and how gut health impacts them. He’s very cautious in terms of making sure you prep carefully before a procedure.
I have forgotten the nurse but she is bubbly, very informative, great bedside manner. When you interact with them, you don’t feel like a patient with a file number. They genuinely care about the health of their patients—and will go the extra mile for you. ”
- Mazile Bee
“Dr. du Plessis first operated on me in January, 2021 with an emergency blocked small colon. He was very attentive and excellent. This was during Covid. I was required to stay longer due to minor complications and, at that time, a hernia was detected. It was too risky to operate on that, at that time, and he advised me to have it done in the future.
On 7th October, 2024 I was operated on to repair a very big hernia. After my discharge I developed septicemia and again operated on to remove the mesh. However, on my discharge I experienced terrible pain and had to be operated on again, for the third time, to secure my intestines.
Doctor was in constant touch with my sons to advise them of my condition & progress during all the months of my recovery.
He sought advice, when required, from a physician who continued to work with him on me.
Dr. Mare du Plessis has been the most wonderful, caring and excellent surgeon. He was with me all the way with his expertise, kindness & care to restore me to good health.
I recommend him very highly and thank him for everything.”
- Debbie Epstein
“My 18-year old daughter, Shanice had an op with Dr. Du Plessis to remove a fibroadenoma in her breast. He handled Shanice with so much care and made her feel very comfortable … I would recommend Dr. Du Plessis as a surgeon to any patient. His advice and his medical knowledge is the best.”
- Rene Cole
“I would like to thank you and your team for all the amazing service I received during my hospital stay for surgery for a bilateral inguinal hernia. From the moment I met you my mind was set at ease. The professional yet friendly way things were explained to me was refreshing.”
- Tristan Lee
"The very thought of hospitalisation is scary and traumatising, but caring doctors like you make it friendly and pleasing.
Your team took care of me as i was the most important person on earth :)"
- Nicole Andrews
Specialist Surgeon
Dr. Maré Du Plessis, MBCHB (UP) MMED Surg (US) FCS (SA)
Mediclinic Milnerton
Suite 169, 1st Floor, Mediclinic Milnerton, Racecourse Road, Milnerton, 7441
P.O Box 61, Plumstead, 7801
Tel: 021 555 1877
Email: milnerton@drduplessis.com
Office Hours:
Mondays - Thursdays: 08h00 – 16h00
Fridays: 08h00 - 13h00
Consultations:
Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Surgical Procedures & Endoscopies:
Mondays and Wednesdays
Emergencies: 021 529 9000
Prac.Nr. 0612103