Dr Martin Forlee

Dr Martin Forlee is a specialist vascular surgeon dedicated to helping patients regain their health, mobility, and quality of life through expert care of the circulatory system.

Raised in Kimberley and educated at Christian Brothers’ College, Dr Forlee went on to study medicine at the University of Cape Town. He graduated in 1993 with first-class honours and was awarded the University Gold Medal for Medicine as the most outstanding final-year medical student, as well as numerous academic awards recognising excellence across multiple medical disciplines.

Inspired by the precision, innovation, and life-changing impact of vascular surgery, Dr Forlee chose a field focused on restoring blood flow, relieving pain, preserving limbs, and improving long-term health outcomes for patients with complex vascular conditions.

After completing his general surgical training at Groote Schuur Hospital and the University of Cape Town, he became a Fellow of the College of Surgeons of South Africa in 2003 and received the Douglas Award as the most outstanding candidate in the Fellowship examination. He then completed three years of specialised vascular and endovascular training at the St James’s Vascular Institute in Dublin, Ireland, qualifying as a registered vascular surgeon in 2006.

Today, Dr Forlee combines extensive experience with a patient-centred approach, taking the time to listen, explain conditions and treatment options clearly, and work collaboratively with patients to develop the most appropriate treatment plan. He has a special interest in minimally invasive endovascular procedures for venous and arterial disease, as well as the management of diabetic foot complications.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr Forlee has contributed extensively to vascular medicine through teaching and professional leadership. He served as a Senior Honorary Lecturer in the Department of Surgery at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital and is a founding member and current President of the South African Lymphatic and Venous Society (SALVS). He has also served on the executive committee of the Vascular Society of Southern Africa.

For Dr Forlee, vascular surgery is about more than treating blood vessels—it is about helping people return to healthier, more active lives through compassionate care, advanced treatment techniques, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Qualifications

• MBChB (University of Cape Town)
• FCS (SA) – Fellow of the College of Surgeons of South Africa
• Cert Vasc Surg (SA) – Specialist Vascular Surgery
• Registered Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon