5 Minutes with Dr George Calfas - Tear Trough

Dr Calfas, one of Sydney’s renowned cosmetic and laser physicians and surgeons, has been helping Australians put their ‘best self’ forward for over 25 years. With no two days ever alike, Dr Calfas enjoys the challenge of keeping abreast of the new developments and technologies in this rapidly evolving field.

This month Dr Calfas shares his expertise on a procedure known as ‘tear troughing’ which he pioneered seven years ago.
What is ‘tear troughing’?

Tear troughing is a procedure that treats the hollow areas under the eyes (called the “tear troughs”) that are commonly referred to as ‘bags’ or ‘dark circles’. These hollows are generally thought to be a result of too many late nights or not enough beauty sleep. However, in reality, they are caused by a loss of volume or fullness from under the eyes, which causes a shadow-like effect.

Tear troughing involves injecting a hyaluronic acid dermal filler in the area under the eyes to fill in the hollows and smooth out the sunken eyes.

By restoring the volume and shape under the eyes, the shadows and bags disappear and there is an immediate refreshing and rejuvenating effect to the whole face.

Is it a painful procedure?

Contrary to what might be expected, this is not a particularly sensitive area to needles, and the application of a numbing cream 30 minutes beforehand will make it more comfortable. Several injections are administered into the relevant areas on each side to correct the defect.

What is the price tag?

The cost is based on a case-by-case scenario; however, on average it will cost approximately $450 per treatment. For more precise results two or three treatments are given at monthly intervals as the initial correcting course and then, because the results are very long lasting only a small top-up is required every 1– 2 years, making it a very cost effective treatment.

Is there much down-time involved?

There will be a little bit of swelling and potentially some bruising following the procedure – however I find that with the majority of patients there is little or no bruising at all. This is a non-invasive procedure, which means patients are able to continue their normal daily activities after being treated.

What should people consider before starting any cosmetic surgery?

They should have an idea of what they want, and what they hope to gain. I also advise that they do a little bit of research beforehand to understand what treatments or procedures are available to them and what results are possible.

Before having any procedure, one should have an initial consultation with their doctor to establish their wish-list and express any concerns. It is important that your doctor is someone you feel comfortable talking to about both your desires and apprehensions.

What are you seeing as the trends in cosmetic surgery right now?

I have definitely noticed a shift toward non-invasive treatments. Australians don’t want to change their appearance, merely improve their looks. Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers and muscle relaxants are the most popular.

I have also noticed an increase in the number of people requesting Thread Face- Lifts (a non-invasive face-lift involving procedure where suture threads are placed under the skin surface, literally lifting the tissues back into place to provide a natural, younger face) and non-surgical alternatives to liposuction (fat dissolving injections, called lipolysis, which reduce a person’s fat to improve their shape).

Which celebrity do you receive the most requests to look alike?

Angelina Jolie lips are by far the ‘most wanted’ or desired asset for women who come through my doors. Men however, are happy to stick with their own assets, preferring to improve on what they already have.

If you would like to speak further with Dr Calfas, you can email: info@gmccosmedical.com or visit one of his clinics:

Randwick Surgery:	Medical Suite, Ground Floor, Pharlap Gardens 34-52 Alison Road Randwick NSW 2031 (02) 9399 6444
Campbelltown Surgery:	Suite 16 Mawson Medical Centre 2-4 Browne Street Campbelltown NSW 2560 (02) 4627 2000 www.gmccosmedical.com