The number of Australian children born through IVF treatment in Greece has seen a remarkable rise, with over 5,000 Australian-born children conceived through Greek fertility clinics, according to Dr Konstantinos Pantos, a prominent Greek-Australian gynecologist.

Currently visiting Melbourne with three of his eight children, Dr Pantos shared insights into his contributions to the field of reproductive medicine and his mission to position Greece as a global leader in medical tourism for fertility treatments.

Dr Pantos with three of his eight children at Monash University. “I took them to see where I completed my first year of medical studies before going to Greece,” he told Neos Kosmos. Photo: Supplied

Dr Pantos, born and raised in Australia, attended Springvale High School before moving to Greece, where he founded Genesis Athens Clinic in 2004. The state-of-the-art facility specialises in IVF, day surgery, and advanced medical services, attracting patients from across the globe.

During his visit to Melbourne, Dr Pantos reunited with former classmates for the 50th anniversary of their graduation and visited Monash University, where he completed the first year of his medical studies before relocating to Greece.

50 years ago at Springvale High School. Photo: Supplied

Reflecting on his journey, he said: “I wanted to show my children where my academic journey began, as it’s a significant part of our family history.”

Dr Pantos has established multiple IVF centers across Greece, making fertility treatment more accessible to locals and international patients. His clinics have gained global recognition, with couples from dozens of countries traveling to Greece for assistance in achieving parenthood.

Springvale High School reunion, 50 years later. Photo: Supplied

“Helping couples experience the joy of motherhood and fatherhood is incredibly rewarding,” he told Neos Kosmos.

“The success of Greek reproductive medicine has not gone unnoticed, with numerous international headlines showcasing Greece’s achievements in this field.”

Dr Pantos emphasised the potential of fertility medicine as a pillar of Greece’s medical tourism industry, highlighting the importance of public-private sector collaboration.

Dr Konstantinos Pantos (right) with the president of the Greek Community, Bill Papastergiadis. Photo: Con Deves

“I aim to raise awareness about fertility, promote prevention, and provide education. Knowledge is key to eliminating uncertainty and ensuring people have choices,” he said.

He also shared his vision of positioning Greece as a trusted destination for health tourism:

“I want to foster international trust in Greece’s healthcare services and establish it as a leading destination for medical tourism.”