Facial rejuvenation has evolved dramatically over the past two decades. What was once associated with extensive scars, long recoveries, and a “pulled” appearance has now become a refined, minimally invasive specialty rooted in anatomical precision, regenerative science, and personalized treatment planning. Industry professionals today recognize Belgium—specifically the renowned Coupure Centre for Plastic Surgery—as one of the leading destinations for facelift patients seeking natural, long-lasting results.
The Coupure Centre stands out not only for its surgical excellence but for its innovative contributions to modern aesthetic medicine. As the birthplace of the MACS-Lift, a globally recognized facelift technique, and the home of pioneering research in Nanofat and regenerative fat transfer, it has reshaped global standards of care. The following article explores the techniques, technologies, and philosophies that make this private clinic a premier choice for medical travelers.
Understanding Modern Facelift Surgery
From Traditional to Modern: How Facelifts Have Evolved
Historically, facelift techniques relied heavily on skin tension—pulling and removing excess skin to create a smoother appearance. While effective in the short term, outcomes often lacked durability and sometimes produced an “operated” look.
Modern facelifts focus on repositioning deeper layers of the face, restoring youthful structure rather than overstretching skin. This shift represents the core philosophy behind the MACS-Lift, a technique designed at the Coupure Centre that minimizes trauma, reduces scarring, and emphasizes natural rejuvenation.
The MACS-Lift: Belgium’s Globally Recognized Facelift Technique
The MACS-Lift (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension Lift) was developed at the Coupure Centre and is now considered one of the most influential modern facelift innovations.
What Makes the MACS-Lift Unique?
The MACS-Lift offers:
- Natural results that preserve individual features
- Reduced risks by avoiding classic complications of traditional facelifts
- Faster recovery with minimal downtime
- Long-lasting, sustainable outcomes
Designed to elevate sagging tissues through minimally invasive access points, the MACS-Lift addresses the lower face, midface, and jawline with remarkable precision. It is particularly appealing for medical tourism patients because it balances effectiveness with shorter stay requirements, reduced complication rates, and quicker return to daily activities.
Why Belgium Leads in Advanced Facial Rejuvenation
1. A Commitment to Natural Aesthetics
The Coupure Centre follows a guiding philosophy of subtle, natural beauty.
“The goal is for patients to look refreshed and youthful — without obvious signs of surgery.”
This makes the clinic especially attractive for international patients seeking discreet, elegant results rather than dramatic or artificial changes.
2. State-of-the-Art Private Surgical Facility
Unlike many hospitals, the Coupure Centre operates as a fully private surgical facility, allowing strict control over sterility, precision, and patient comfort:
- Private entrance for discretion
- Fully controlled environment prioritizing safety and sterility
- Top-tier equipment from Germany and Switzerland
This level of operational independence is rare in Europe and particularly valued by medical travelers, VIPs, and professionals who require privacy.
3. Boutique-Style Overnight Recovery
Located directly above the operating theatre, the clinic’s boutique recovery suites offer:
- Hotel-like comfort
- A licensed physician and dedicated nurse available through the night
- The option for loved ones to stay
This holistic approach to overnight care enhances safety, reduces anxiety, and ensures early post-operative monitoring—one of the most important aspects of facelift recovery.
4. Expertise in Regenerative Techniques
Drs. Tonnard and Verpaele are globally recognized for their groundbreaking work in Nanofat, a technique using fat-derived regenerative cells to improve skin quality, radiance, and healing.
- Dr. Tonnard is internationally recognized as the father of Nanofat technology
- Their discoveries revolutionized aesthetic surgery and continue to influence surgeons worldwide
Regenerative fat transfer is now commonly combined with facelifts at advanced clinics, improving outcomes and extending longevity.
5. A Team That Trains the World
More than:
- 200 physicians trained in Ghent
- 2,000 surgeons have attended workshops and lectures led by Drs. Tonnard and Verpaele
This reflects the clinic’s status as a global teaching center.
Inside the Coupure Centre: What Medical Travelers Can Expect
A Highly Specialized Team
The clinic brings together:
- Board-certified plastic surgeons
- A specialized anesthesiologist
- Highly trained nursing and scrub staff
This multidisciplinary approach ensures patient safety from consultation to post-operative care.
Patient Experience and Reputation
It includes multiple patient testimonials highlighting flawless care, clarity of communication, and exceptional follow-up:
- “Everything was flawless… the entire team was professional and caring.”
- “I felt safe and supported the whole time.”
- “The staff reassured me every step of the way.”
Such consistency underscores why the clinic maintains high international demand.
The Surgeons Behind the Success: Dr. Patrick Tonnard & Dr. Alexis Verpaele
Dr. Patrick Tonnard
- Founder of the Coupure Centre more than 27 years ago
- Medical doctorate with highest distinction from Ghent University
- Advanced international training with renowned mentors in Mexico City and Nashville
- Holds a PhD in fat grafting and facial rejuvenation
- Authored four medical textbooks and 100+ scientific articles
- Globally recognized as the father of Nanofat technology
Dr. Alexis Verpaele
- Joined the clinic two years after its founding
- Specialized in microsurgery and ear reconstruction under world-leading expertise in Paris
- Holds a PhD focusing on reducing facelift complications through the MACS-Lift
- Board member of the Royal Belgian Society for Plastic Surgery
- Member of ISAPS and ASAPS
A Shared Vision
Their partnership is described as:
“A rare bond that fosters collaboration and creativity.”
Together, they have shaped global aesthetic surgery standards and have performed humanitarian work through over 20 surgical missions in Myanmar—treating more than 2,000 patients with cleft conditions.
Why the Coupure Centre Is Considered Belgium’s Best Facelift Clinic
1. Global Impact and Scientific Leadership
Creators of the MACS-Lift and pioneers of Nanofat regenerative therapy.
2. Natural Aesthetic Outcomes
A philosophy centered on subtle, individualized rejuvenation.
3. Private, State-of-the-Art Facility
Complete control over sterility, equipment, and surgical quality.
4. Exceptional Overnight Care
Dedicated suites directly above the operating theatre.
5. International Training Center
A clinic where surgeons from around the world study advanced facelift techniques.
To summarize, The Coupure Centre for Plastic Surgery represents the pinnacle of facelift innovation in Belgium and Europe. With its groundbreaking techniques, regenerative technologies, private surgical environment, and world-renowned surgeons, it has become a premier destination for international medical travelers seeking natural, long-lasting facial rejuvenation.
Looking for the most natural and regenerative approach to facial rejuvenation?
If you are considering a facelift, regenerative fat-based rejuvenation, or comprehensive aging-face surgery, we recommend Patrick Tonnard, MD, PhD, one of Europe’s most respected leaders in modern aesthetic medicine.
Dr. Tonnard is a world-renowned, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and the CEO and Founder of the Coupure Center for Plastic Surgery and the Aesthetic Medical Center 2 (EMC²) in Ghent, Belgium. He is internationally recognized for breakthroughs such as the MACS-lift and nanofat grafting, techniques that have influenced the global shift toward natural and long-lasting facial rejuvenation.
His approach focuses on anatomical precision, scientific integrity, and subtle improvements that restore your own facial harmony. Patients value his expertise in advanced facelift methods, regenerative procedures, and male and female facial aesthetics. The goal is always the same: results that look refreshed, youthful, and authentically you.
Explore Dr. Patrick Tonnard’s Profile and Request a Consultation
https://www.better.medicaltourism.com/providers-platform-single?provider=patrick-tonnard-md-phd
