Facial micro-fat grafting in Bordeaux
Micro-lipofilling is an aesthetic surgery procedure that consists of removing fat from an area of the body in order to reinject it into the face (fat autograft or autologous graft).
Written by Dr Maxence Thomas, plastic surgeon
Content reviewed on 13 October 2026 · RPPS 10101703519
- Duration of the procedure
- 1 to 2 hours maximum, depending on the area treated.
- Hospitalization
- Performed on an outpatient basis.
- Recovery
- The recovery period is very short and the patient can return to normal life within a few days.
What is facial micro-lipofilling?
Micro-lipofilling is a cosmetic surgery procedure that consists of harvesting fat from one area of the body and reinjecting it into the face (fat autograft or autologous graft).
It is indicated for both men and women to fill hollow areas of the face (hollow cheeks), smooth deep wrinkles or create volume, such as in the cheekbones.
How does the procedure work?
First, the surgeon harvests fat by liposuction from the inner side of the knees (or the abdomen, or inner thighs, etc.).
The harvested fat then undergoes various purification processes (centrifugation, washing, filtration bag, etc.) in order to obtain fat microparticles.
Once purified, the fat is reinjected very precisely into the areas of the face to be filled, using special micro fat grafting instruments.
What is the recovery like?
Type of anesthesia
Generally local. Sometimes, general anesthesia is performed in order to perform additional surgical procedures at the same time as the operation.
Scars
The injection and harvesting points are less than one millimeter in size, so the scars are very discreet.
Post-operative course
The patient feels very little pain (mild painkillers are prescribed). Swelling and bruising may persist for about 15 days. As it is an autograft (your own fat), there is no immune rejection.
What results can you expect?
Lipofilling is an increasingly popular technique. It is an operation that consists of injecting fat into the face.
→ Natural result
→ Long-lasting result
→ Treats facial wrinkles and volumes at the same time
FAQ
The cannulas used are small and do not leave visible scars.
This procedure is often performed under local anesthesia alone. It is no more painful than a hyaluronic acid injection. It can be performed under general anesthesia, in particular when combined with a facelift.
Depending on the extent of the area to be treated, fat transfer takes between one and two hours at most.
Facial microlipofilling can be performed on an outpatient basis. In other words, the patient is admitted to the hospital and discharged on the same day.
Microlipofilling is used to improve volumes, fill in too deep wrinkles, and round facial contours.
It is a very effective method of combating aging because fat has both a volumizing and regenerative effect on the skin. Some of the injected fat is reabsorbed by the body, and the rest is maintained over the long term.
The pain is usually very mild and can be relieved with standard treatments.
As with any procedure, there are risks, and complications may occur (bleeding, infection, wound dehiscence, scarring problems, neurological disorders, etc.). They are uncommon and can be managed promptly by the surgeon during post-operative check-ups. An information sheet from the French Society of Plastic Surgery will be given to you before the procedure.
Any other questions? Dr Thomas will answer them during the consultation.
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What patients say
4.7/5 · 121 Google reviews« I recommend Dr. Thomas without hesitation. This is the second time he's performed my lip injections, and I'm once again delighted with the results. The work is meticulous, elegant, and above all, natural—exactly what I was looking for. He perfectly respects the facial structure, and the result is harmonious, without being overdone. I also want to thank his assistant, Béatrice, who is incredibly kind. Always smiling and welcoming, she makes you feel truly listened to and well taken care of from beginning to end. An excellent experience; I will definitely return. »
Coraline Hayward5 months ago« One year after my breast augmentation surgery, I wanted to warmly thank Dr. Thomas for his professionalism and outstanding work. The result is very successful, natural, and completely met my expectations. During my stay at the cosmetic surgery clinic, the entire team was incredibly kind, caring, and reassuring. I experienced very little pain, which surprised and relieved me greatly. I also want to acknowledge the doctor's secretary, who called me the day after the procedure to check on me—a very thoughtful and genuine gesture. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Thomas and his entire team. »
Raphaëlle Mazeau10 months ago« A huge thank you to surgeon Maxence Thomas, who took care of me. He's the best in the department. Excellent service. Special mention to surgeon Maxence Thomas and his team. Thank you for your kindness and for putting me at ease, and for the follow-up care you provided afterward. Very satisfied with the result, even after just one week. Impressive! I can't thank you enough. Thank you for this operation. So happy! Very welcoming. I highly recommend them. Highly professional and charming. I am extremely grateful. »
Chrystel Fereola year agoReviews published on Google · See all reviews on Google