What Is VOD - Autologous Fat Transfer?
VOD (Vascularized Omental Flap) combined with autologous fat transfer is an advanced regenerative procedure that harnesses your body's own healing resources. During this treatment, we harvest fat from areas where you have excess (typically the abdomen or thighs), process it carefully, and strategically transfer it to areas needing volume restoration or rejuvenation. Because the fat comes from your own body, there is no risk of allergic reaction or rejection.
This procedure is often combined with regenerative medicine principles to maximize the viability and longevity of the transferred fat. The result is natural-looking volume that integrates seamlessly with your existing tissue, whether you're addressing facial aging, body contouring, or restoring lost volume from previous procedures or weight loss.
Why Choose Autologous Fat Transfer?
Autologous fat transfer offers several compelling advantages for patients seeking natural, long-lasting results:
Natural Results — Because we use your own tissue, the appearance and feel are completely natural. The transferred fat blends with your existing anatomy without the artificial appearance sometimes associated with fillers or implants.
Longevity — While some transferred fat is reabsorbed during the healing process, the fat that survives typically lasts for years. Many patients enjoy results that persist indefinitely with proper aftercare.
Dual Benefit — The procedure provides contouring in the donor area while enhancing the recipient area. You get volume where you want it and improved contours where you don't.
Reduced Allergic Risk — Since the material is your own tissue, there is no risk of allergic reaction or foreign body response.
Versatility — Fat transfer can address the face (cheeks, lips, under-eyes, temples), breasts, buttocks, hands, or any area where volume loss has occurred.
The Treatment Process
Your VOD - Autologous Fat Transfer experience at IPros Medical Center begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Rodrigo Gomez. He will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and explain how much volume can realistically be achieved. He'll also review which areas will serve as donor sites and answer any questions about the procedure.
On the day of your treatment, the area will be prepared and local anesthesia (or sedation if appropriate) will be administered for your comfort. Dr. Gomez will then carefully harvest fat from the predetermined donor site using gentle liposuction techniques. The harvested fat is then processed and purified to concentrate the viable fat cells and remove excess fluid and debris.
Once prepared, the fat is strategically injected into the recipient area in small, controlled amounts. Proper placement and layering are crucial to both aesthetic outcome and graft survival. Dr. Gomez uses his surgical expertise to ensure even distribution and natural-looking results.
The entire procedure typically takes 1–3 hours, depending on the volume being transferred and the number of areas being treated.
What to Expect After Your Procedure
Immediate Recovery — You may experience mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort at both the donor and recipient sites. These are normal and typically peak within the first few days.
Activity Level — Most patients can return to light activities within a few days. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 2–3 weeks to allow the transferred fat to establish its blood supply.
Results Timeline — Initial results are visible within the first few weeks as swelling subsides. However, final results typically appear over 3–6 months as the transferred fat fully integrates and settles into its final position.
Longevity — A portion of transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed during the healing process (typically 20–30%). The fat that remains generally persists long-term. Some patients choose minor touch-up treatments after a year to refresh their results.
Aftercare and Results
Following post-procedure instructions is essential for optimal outcomes. We provide detailed aftercare guidance, including:
- Keeping the treatment areas clean and protected
- Wearing any recommended compression garments
- Avoiding direct pressure on treated areas
- Taking prescribed medications as directed
- Attending follow-up appointments
Results continue to improve as swelling resolves and the transferred fat establishes its blood supply. Many patients report feeling more confident and satisfied as they see their natural, refreshed appearance develop over the following months.
If you're interested in learning whether VOD - Autologous Fat Transfer is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gomez at IPros Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale. We look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with natural, personalized care.