Most authors supported the theory of adipocyte survival. The viability of these cells has been demonstrated by various experimental clinical, radiological and biochemical studies. After a review of the literature, the authors report the various factors, which influence the survival of the transplanted adipocytes. These factors are presented according to their chronology in the operative procedure. The techniques used are very diverse. The reference technique chosen is that described by Coleman (Lipostructure). The following factors are studied: type of anaesthesia, infiltration, donor site of adipose tissue, method of harvesting, method of refining adipose tissue, anabolic complements, receiving site, reinjection technique, number of grafting sessions, freezing of adipose tissue and complementary postoperative treatments. It seems imperative that each phase of the operative procedure should be carried out without damage to the adipocytes, in particular their harvesting, refining and reinjection. All the other factors studied require comparative analysis in order to demonstrate their true importance. This opens up various directions of research aiming to improve the survival of the transplanted adipocytes.