By Sitha Maliwa
In the vibrant city of Cape Town, Dr Winile Makhaye serves as a beacon of hope and expertise in the field of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) medicine. As one of the few black female ENT specialists in South Africa, Dr Makhaye has a journey that reflects both professional achievement and a commitment to serving underprivileged communities that cannot afford essential medical care.
Born and bred in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Dr Makhaye completed her medical training at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where she developed a passion for surgical disciplines. After finishing her community service year in the general surgery department at Themba Hospital, she joined the ENT Department at UKZN as a junior doctor in 2012. Through hard work and perseverance, she obtained her Fellowship of the Colleges of Otorhinolaryngology in 2018 and later earned a Master’s degree focusing on the surgical management of obstructive sleep apnoea in adults.
Her extensive training has led Dr Makhaye to develop a keen interest in treating complex conditions such as vertigo, sleep apnoea, tinnitus, sinusitis, and laryngitis. Additionally, her specialty in anterior skull base and sinus surgery allows her to perform intricate procedures that can drastically improve patients’ quality of life.
A fundamental aspect of her practice is her dedication to providing care to those in need. She regularly works with underprivileged children and individuals facing financial barriers, offering her expertise as a surgeon to help transform their lives. Actively serving the underserved areas of Mitchells Plain and Tokai, she tirelessly strives to uplift these communities and ensure that quality ENT care is accessible to everyone. In addition to providing solutions for her patients, she also educates them about preventative measures. “I firmly believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare,” she says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the improvements in my patients’ lives post-surgery.”
Dr Makhaye adopts a holistic and patient-centred approach in her practice. She emphasises the importance of fostering a family-friendly environment wherein patients feel comfortable and cared for. “Building trust with my patients is crucial. I always strive to create an atmosphere where they feel supported throughout their treatment journey,” she explains.
Her repertoire of treatments spans a wide range of ENT conditions. From allergy management and chronic sinus disease to complex surgeries like tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, and parotid gland surgery, Dr Makhaye is equipped to handle diverse cases. She also addresses issues such as delayed speech development and swallowing problems, ensuring comprehensive care for her patients.
As she continues to advance her practice, she also remains actively involved in professional organisations that promote the field of ENT. She is a member of the ENT Society of South Africa, actively participates in the management committee, and engages with the Young ENT Physicians Group, part of the International Federation of Otorhinolaryngological Societies.
“Being part of these organizations allows me to stay updated on the latest advancements in our field and collaborate with other professionals to elevate the standard of care we provide,” she shares.- NewsSA