Stem-cell based aesthetic medicine represents a major shift in how the global industry approaches facial and skin rejuvenation. What once relied solely on surgical lifting or synthetic fillers has now evolved into biologically intelligent treatments using the body’s own regenerative potential.
Stem-cell rich fat grafting, particularly the evolution from macrofat to microfat and ultimately Nanofat, is one of the most scientifically validated regenerative procedures in modern aesthetic surgery. Unlike traditional volumizing methods, this approach restores lost structure and rejuvenates the tissue itself—improving skin quality, texture, elasticity, and healing capacity.
Belgium has become a leading global destination for these advanced treatments, due in large part to the breakthrough research, publications, and surgical innovations led by Dr. Patrick Tonnard and his team in Ghent.
Stem-cell based aesthetic medicine represents a major shift in how the global industry approaches facial and skin rejuvenation. What once relied solely on surgical lifting or synthetic fillers has now evolved into biologically intelligent treatments using the body’s own regenerative potential.
Stem-cell rich fat grafting, particularly the evolution from macrofat to microfat and ultimately Nanofat, is one of the most scientifically validated regenerative procedures in modern aesthetic surgery. Unlike traditional volumizing methods, this approach restores lost structure and rejuvenates the tissue itself—improving skin quality, texture, elasticity, and healing capacity.
Belgium has become a leading global destination for these advanced treatments, due in large part to the breakthrough research, publications, and surgical innovations led by Dr. Patrick Tonnard and his team in Ghent.
Understanding Stem-Cell Rich Fat Grafting
What Is Fat Grafting?
Fat grafting involves harvesting a patient’s own adipose tissue, processing it, and reinjecting it to restore youthful contours. Fat is a living, biologically active tissue, containing:
- Adipocytes
- Stromal vascular fraction (SVF)
- Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs)
These cells offer regenerative benefits far beyond synthetic fillers.
From Macrofat to Microfat: The Evolution of Technique
Early macrofat grafting created volumization but posed challenges in delicate areas such as the eyelids. Larger fat parcels could cause irregularities, increased swelling, and less predictable results.
The refinement into microfat dramatically improved outcomes:
- Smoother, more uniform results due to smaller parcels
- Minimal trauma from finer cannulas
- Faster recovery with less swelling
- Greater precision for thin-skinned areas
- Improved comfort and reduced pain
- Enhanced fat survival as clinically observed
Microfat represented a shift: fat was no longer simply a filler—its regenerative properties became clinically undeniable.
The Scientific Power of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs)
One of the most important scientific observations in modern plastic surgery is that fat grafting improves skin quality even beyond volume restoration.
- Smoother texture
- Healthier skin tone
- Better elasticity
- Faster healing
Scientific research explains why: adipose tissue is one of the richest sources of adult stem cells. ADSCs can:
- Differentiate into various cell types
- Release growth factors that stimulate healing
- Modulate inflammation
- Enhance angiogenesis, creating new blood vessels
- Activate resident stem cells for further tissue renewal
Thus, fat grafting becomes a regenerative therapy, not merely an aesthetic one.
Nanofat: Belgium’s Globally Influential Breakthrough
Nanofat—now widely studied, published, and adopted by surgeons globally—originated at the Coupure Centre for Plastic Surgery in Ghent.
What Makes Nanofat Unique?
Nanofat is not intended for volumizing. Instead, it is mechanically emulsified fat that retains its regenerative cell population—especially ADSCs and growth factors.
It is used for:
- Fine skin rejuvenation
- Under-eye crepiness
- Texture improvement
- Pigmentation issues
- Post-surgical or post-radiation skin damage
- Chronic wound healing
Nanofat is, fundamentally, a stem-cell rich regenerative serum created from the patient’s own fat.
Dr. Patrick Tonnard is internationally recognized as the father of Nanofat technology, and surgeons worldwide continue to study and implement his innovations.
Applications of Stem-Cell Rich Fat Grafting in Aesthetic Medicine
1. Facial Rejuvenation
- Cheeks
- Temples
- Tear troughs
- Jawline
- Perioral region
Microfat restores lost volume while Nanofat improves skin tone and texture.
2. Skin Regeneration & Repair
Nanofat is particularly effective for:
- Fine wrinkles
- Sun-damaged skin
- Scars and uneven texture
- Radiotherapy-induced skin damage
- Chronic wounds
3. Delicate Areas Where Traditional Fillers Fail
- Lower eyelids
- Lip lines
- Neck
- Décolletage
Microfat and Nanofat achieve natural results without the risk of over-filling.
4. Combination With Facelift Techniques
Belgium’s leading centers integrate fat grafting with advanced lifting techniques, achieving:
- Natural outcomes
- Shorter recovery
- Less bruising and swelling
- More youthful skin quality
This combination represents the forefront of modern facial rejuvenation strategies.
Why Belgium Leads the Field of Regenerative Aesthetics
Belgium’s leadership arises from three pillars:
1. Pioneering Research
Belgian surgeons, particularly in Ghent, have written extensively on:
- Microfat
- Nanofat
- Regenerative applications of fat
- Minimally invasive facelift techniques
Their textbooks and more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific articles are foundational in global aesthetic surgery education.
2. Innovation in Technique
Techniques such as Nanofat and the MACS-Lift were developed in Belgium and continue to influence aesthetic textbooks, global workshops, and operative standards worldwide.
3. Training of International Surgeons
- Nearly 200 physicians have trained directly in Ghent
- More than 2,000 surgeons have attended their workshops and lectures
This positions Belgium not only as a destination for patients, but also for professional surgical learning.
Meet the Expert Behind Belgium’s Regenerative Innovations: Dr. Patrick Tonnard
A Global Leader in Stem-Cell Rich Fat Grafting
- Dr. Patrick Tonnard has authored four medical textbooks and over 100 scientific articles related to facial rejuvenation and regenerative fat technology.
- He is recognized internationally as the father of Nanofat, now used worldwide for skin regeneration.
- He co-developed innovative fat grafting techniques and has shaped modern understanding of adipose-derived stem cells.
Founder of the Coupure Centre for Plastic Surgery
- Founded more than 27 years ago, the center was built on a vision of world-class results and patient-centered care.
- Two years later, he was joined by Dr. Alexis Verpaele, forming a pioneering partnership that transformed the global field of facial rejuvenation.
International Influence
- Over 2,000 surgeons have attended their workshops.
- Surgeons from around the world visit Ghent to study their techniques and philosophy.
Philosophy: Natural, Subtle, Youthful
Dr. Tonnard’s approach focuses on effortlessly natural results, avoiding artificial fillers or overcorrection.
Private, State-of-the-Art Surgical Facility
His procedures are performed in a private facility offering:
- Strict control over surgical quality
- Overnight boutique recovery suites
- 24/7 medical supervision
Why Dr. Tonnard Is Belgium’s Top Choice for Stem-Cell Rich Fat Grafting
Dr. Tonnard stands out because:
- He created Nanofat technology.
- He refined microfat methods now used worldwide.
- He is a leading educator in regenerative aesthetics.
- He combines scientific innovation with clinically proven natural results.
- His center is one of Europe’s most respected hubs for facial rejuvenation.
These credentials make him the most authoritative and experienced surgeon in Belgium for patients seeking regenerative, stem-cell based skin rejuvenation.
Belgium’s Global Leadership in Regenerative Facial Aesthetics
To summarize, Stem-cell rich fat grafting and Nanofat represent the future of natural, biologically intelligent anti-aging care. Belgium—and specifically Dr. Patrick Tonnard’s work in Ghent—continues to define this global movement through research, innovation, and training.
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
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