Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon | Rhinoplasty Specialist
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Rhinoplasty Specialist
Dr Chris Snijman
MBBCh (WITS), FCS SA (Plast)
Plastic Surgeon, Perfectionist, Father and Golfing Enthusiast
Dr Chris Snijman is a highly experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in Sandton, Johannesburg, with a distinguished career spanning more than two decades.
He is widely recognised by his peers for his expertise in Rhinoplasty (nose plastic surgery), Facial Aesthetic Surgery including the deep plane facelift, and advanced reconstructive procedures. His work is grounded in evidence-based medicine, surgical precision, and a strong commitment to patient safety and outcomes.
Dr Snijman practices at Mediclinic Morningside and the Sandhurst Eye Hospital, where he offers comprehensive care using modern surgical techniques and a patient-centred consultation approach.
Dr Chris Snijman is a distinguished Plastic Surgeon and Rhinoplasty Specialist located in Sandton, South Africa.
His qualifications are the equivalent of Board Certification in the USA.
Dr Chris Snijman is a member of The Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons of South Africa (APRASSA), the International Society of Aesthetic Surgeons (ISAPS), American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) and the Rhinoplasty Society of South Africa (SORSSA) and the European Rhinoplasty Society.
Extensive Experience in Rhinoplasty (Nose Plastic Surgery)
Dr Snijman is regarded as one of South Africa’s leading surgeons in Rhinoplasty, a procedure widely considered among the most complex and technically demanding in plastic surgery. His experience spans both aesthetic nose surgery, nasal reconstruction and functional rhinoplasty, with a strong focus on achieving natural, balanced results while preserving nasal structure and breathing function.
Preservation Rhinoplasty
Dr Snijman has particular expertise in preservation rhinoplasty, a modern surgical approach that reshapes the nose while maintaining its natural support framework. This technique allows for refined, long-term results with reduced trauma, improved stability, and a lower risk of postoperative breathing complications compared to traditional reductive methods.
His involvement in international preservation rhinoplasty conferences reflects his commitment to remaining at the forefront of evolving surgical best practice.
Teaching, Lecturing & Global Contribution
Dr Snijman is actively involved in rhinoplasty education, regularly lecturing to peers and trainees at local and international conferences. He has delivered specialist lectures on nose reshaping surgery, surgical planning, and preservation techniques at professional symposia, including facial aesthetic and rhinoplasty-focused events.
He also participates in World Rhinoplasty Day and World Rhinoplasty Week initiatives, contributing to global knowledge exchange among leading rhinoplasty surgeons across multiple continents.
This ongoing educational involvement underscores his authority and experience in nose plastic surgery, both in South Africa and internationally.
Leadership & Professional Standing
Dr Snijman’s leadership roles demonstrate trust and recognition within the profession:
- Past President of the Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons of Southern Africa (APRASSA)
- Chief Ombudsman – Plastic Surgery South Africa, overseeing ethical and professional standards
- Chairman of the APRASSA Research Trust
- Member of ISAPS, ASAPS, SORSSA, and the European Rhinoplasty Society
- Peer reviewer for leading journals including Aesthetic Surgery Journal and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open
He has also represented Africa on international plastic surgery boards, contributing to global safety and research initiatives
Patient-Focused Surgical Philosophy
Dr Snijman believes that successful nose and deep plane facial plastic surgery requires a balance of technical expertise, anatomical understanding, and aesthetic judgement. Every facial consultation is approached with careful assessment of facial harmony, nasal function, and the patient’s individual goals.
He was among the early adopters of 3D and 4D imaging technology for facial consultations in South Africa, allowing patients to better understand potential outcomes and participate confidently in surgical planning.
Areas of Focus
- Rhinoplasty / Nose Plastic Surgery
- Structure and Preservation Rhinoplasty
- Revision Rhinoplasty
- Functional Rhinoplasty (breathing correction)
- Facial Aesthetic Surgery
- Deep Plane Facelift
- Brow re-contouring surgery
- Upper and lower eyelid surgery
- Reconstructive Plastic Surgery
The man and the myth away from his practice
Chris, as you will soon call him, is humble about his status but testimony to his commitment to the Discipline of Plastic Surgery. Chris is extremely passionate about his work and this passion and enthusiasm tends to overflow into everything that he tackles. He has a wide range of interests and hobbies and is an accomplished golfer as well as a Fly fishing Angler, playing off a 2 handicap, out of Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club as well Johannesburg Country Club.
Chris has recently remarried following the passing of his wife in 2015 and is blessed to have Leandra and Savanna in his life. His pride and joy is his son Christian who is at boarding school at Hilton College in the Natal Midlands, a fine golfer and angler in his own right. The two spend many hours together pursuing these fine arts.
Dr Chris Snijman is a distinguised Plastic Surgeon in Sandton and leading authority in Nose Cosmetic Surgery (Rhinoplasty) and Deep Plane Facelift procedures.
Consulting from the exclusive Morningside Mediclinic and Sandhurst Eye Clinic, both premier facilities in the heart of Sandton, South Africa.
The Surgery offers state of the art technology, priding itself on punctuality, professionalism, patient preparation and encourages patient education.
Dr Snijman also offers Crisalix, the world’s leading Virtual Reality 4D & 3D plastic surgery imaging solution.