Prof Tess is the specialist practice led by Professor Tess van der Merwe, an endocrinologist with nearly 40 years of experience in obesity care. An extraordinary professor and researcher in the University of Pretoria’s Department of Health Sciences, she leads an internationally accredited metabolic and bariatric surgery centre at Waterfall City Hospital in Midrand, Gauteng. The practice combines medical care, research and ongoing patient support, with a team selected for its knowledge, compassion and dedication.

Services begin with a comprehensive metabolic workup, including advanced blood tests and clinical assessments such as lung function testing and an ECG. Patients considering weight loss surgery receive guidance from initial evaluation and preparation through surgery and long-term follow-up, in collaboration with a specialist surgical team. The practice also offers medically supervised weight loss medication with tailored dietary planning and psychological care, as well as assessments for revision surgery. Additional services include sleep studies to investigate concerns such as sleep apnoea and disrupted breathing, and tailored IV infusions for post-surgery patients to help replenish vitamins and minerals.