MD Codes in Switzerland: harmonising the face rather than filling wrinkles

For a long time, hyaluronic acid injection consisted of filling one wrinkle or fold at a time: a little product in the crease between the nose and mouth, a little in the lips. The results could be acceptable, but sometimes unbalanced, or even heavy-looking. MD Codes offer a different logic: looking at the face as a whole, identifying the emotions it expresses involuntarily, such as tiredness, sadness or sternness, and acting on precise points that support its structure, rather than filling hollows one by one. Developed in the early 2010s by a Brazilian plastic surgeon and widely taught since, this method is now used by many doctors in Switzerland. This page explains what MD Codes are, the logic of emotional attributes, how the face is analysed, the main treatment points, how a session works, recovery, risks, limits and price guidelines in Switzerland, expressed as differences relative to Geneva.

MD Codes are a hyaluronic acid injection method based on a map of precise points on the face, each identified by a code, a depth and a quantity. The approach starts from an analysis of the emotions the face conveys, such as tiredness, sadness or sternness, and seeks to soften them by restoring the support of the structures, notably the cheekbones, temples and facial contour. Treatment is often carried out in one or two sessions, with an immediate result that becomes clearer over two to four weeks and generally lasts a year or more. Like any injection, it carries risks and must be performed by a trained doctor. Detailed budget: MD Codes prices in Switzerland.

The method was developed by a plastic surgeon, Dr Mauricio de Maio, whose initials gave the codes their name. It spread internationally from the 2010s onwards, notably through training courses for doctors. It is based on in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy, how the face ages and how others perceive expressions. It is often associated with a range of hyaluronic acid products from one manufacturer, but its principles of analysis can be applied by doctors using other products.

The first filler injections were mainly aimed at filling a wrinkle or fold. With the arrival of hyaluronic acid and a better understanding of facial ageing, practice evolved towards restoring volume, then towards a global, structural and emotional approach. MD Codes are part of this evolution, offering a common language and a method of analysis that have helped spread this approach.

Other approaches pursue similar goals: restoring volume area by area, global lifting often called a liquid lift, ligament support techniques, maps proposed by other schools. All share the idea of treating the face as a whole rather than wrinkle by wrinkle. The name of the method matters less than the doctor's skill and the quality of their analysis.

A codified method provides a useful framework, but it does not replace the doctor's judgement. Every face is unique, and mechanically applying a protocol can lead to a standardised or excessive result. Experienced doctors use the codes as a language and a guide, while adapting their plan to each person.

The method is not set in stone: the codes, techniques and recommendations evolve with experience, studies and new products. Trained doctors regularly attend updates. This evolution helps improve safety and results. A doctor who trains regularly is a sign of quality.

Studies have evaluated the structural and emotional approach to injections, measuring patient satisfaction, the improvement in attributes perceived by observers, and how long the results last. They generally report good satisfaction and an improvement in the impressions conveyed by the face. As with any technique, the quality of the result depends on the doctor and the indication.

The method was developed in connection with a range of products from one manufacturer, and its training courses are often associated with these products. Its principles of analysis and structural support can nevertheless be applied with other quality gels. What matters is that the products are authorised, traceable and suited to each point.

The term MD Codes is sometimes used in clinics' marketing without the analysis and method actually being applied. During the consultation, it is worth checking that the doctor does carry out a global analysis, explains the impressions conveyed by the face and proposes a prioritised plan, rather than a simple standardised package.

Each treatment point is designated by a code made up of letters and numbers, which refers to an anatomical area: the letters designate the region, the numbers the precise position. For each code, the method specifies the injection depth, the tool (needle or cannula), the technique and an indicative quantity. This map allows a reproducible approach and clear communication between doctors. It remains a guide: the doctor always adapts the points and quantities to the face being treated.

The term MD Codes is increasingly used, sometimes without explanation. This page aims to explain simply what it covers: a method of facial analysis based on the impressions the face conveys, and a map of support points. It aims to help everyone understand the logic of this approach, ask the right questions and choose a doctor with full knowledge of the facts.

Each region of the face has several codes, which correspond to precise points. Without going into the detail reserved for medical training, their logic can be described: the cheek codes designate several points along the cheekbone arch, from front to back; those of the temples, points in the temporal hollow; those of the eyebrow, points along its tail; those of the under-eye area, points beneath the eye; those of the chin, points for projection and width; those of the jawline, points along the angle and the border. Each code is associated with a depth, a tool and a technique.

The cheek region is often the most important in the method. Several points can be treated: the upper part of the arch, for a lifting effect; the front part, for volume; the lower part, to support the midface. The doctor chooses the points according to the shape of the face and the desired effect, avoiding creating cheekbones that are too high or too prominent.

In the temples, the product is generally injected deep, in contact with the bone, or more superficially depending on the technique chosen. The filling must remain discreet, to soften the transition between the forehead, the eyebrow and the cheek. A well-supported temple gives the face a softer outline and can slightly lift the tail of the eyebrow.

The tail of the eyebrow tends to drop with age, giving a tired or sad look. A little support with hyaluronic acid, possibly combined with a botulinum toxin that relaxes the muscle that lowers the eyebrow, can open it up slightly. In men, the eyebrow must remain low and horizontal to preserve a masculine look.

The area under the eye is one of the most delicate. The skin there is thin, the blood vessels are numerous, and a poorly chosen or poorly placed product can cause a bluish tinge or persistent swelling. The doctor often treats the cheekbones first, which already improves the area, then supplements if necessary with a fluid product, in very small quantities and placed deep.

The chin can be treated to gain projection, length or width, depending on the face. In women, a slimmer, slightly projected chin is often sought; in men, a wider, squarer chin. A well-balanced chin improves the profile and the jawline and can soften marionette lines.

Along the jaw, points make it possible to redefine the angle and the border, for a sharper facial contour. In men, the angle is often reinforced for a more structured look; in women, the contour is refined without being weighed down. This procedure requires a firm product and good knowledge of the anatomy of the region.

In a conventional approach, the bothersome fold is filled. In the MD Codes approach, the question is why this fold has formed, and treatment is often carried out elsewhere: for example, restoring the support of the cheekbones can soften the fold between the nose and mouth better than filling it directly. This logic of structural support often makes it possible to use the product where it is most effective and to avoid a heavy or puffy look.

To fully understand what the global approach brings, it is useful to compare it with a targeted approach focused on a wrinkle or an area.

A targeted approach remains suitable in certain situations: a simple request concerning the lips in a young person, a small asymmetry, a depressed scar, a touch-up after a global treatment. The global approach is not always necessary; the doctor decides based on the analysis.

Repeated targeted corrections, without an overall vision, can lead to an unbalanced face: overfilled lips, overloaded folds, heavy cheeks. Each correction seemed reasonable, but together they no longer are. The global approach seeks to avoid this trap by prioritising the points and keeping an overall vision.

Contrary to a widespread belief, a global approach does not necessarily use more product. By placing the product at the most effective support points, it can achieve a better result with a quantity comparable to, or even lower than, that of several successive targeted corrections. The budget does, however, depend on the scope of the plan.

To understand the logic of support points, you need to picture the face as a layered construction. Deep down, the bone forms the framework; with age, it resorbs slightly, particularly around the eyes, cheekbones and jaw. Above it, deep and superficial fat compartments provide volume; they shrink and slide downwards. Ligaments connect the skin to the bone; they loosen. The muscles, which drive expressions, mark the skin. Finally, the skin thins and loses its firmness. Ageing results from all of these changes combined.

Each area of the face ages at its own pace. The temples often become hollow from the thirties in slim people. The under-eye area shows signs early, with a hollow appearing between the eyelid and the cheek. The cheekbones lose projection from the forties. The fold between the nose and mouth gradually deepens. The corners of the mouth droop and marionette lines appear. The facial contour becomes less defined as jowls form, often from the fifties. Knowing this timeline helps explain why priorities change with age.

The pace of ageing depends on genetics, but also on lifestyle: sun exposure, smoking, sleep, weight fluctuations, stress. Two people of the same age can have very different faces. A personalised analysis takes this reality into account, rather than relying solely on age.

No injection stops ageing, but a few habits slow it down: daily sun protection, quitting smoking, sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, a stable weight, a suitable skincare routine. These habits preserve skin quality and prolong the effect of treatments.

Injections act on volume and support, but skin quality greatly influences the result. A simple routine of gentle cleansing, moisturising, sun protection and, on medical advice, a retinoid in the evening enhances the harmonisation. Treatments such as skin boosters or peels can complement the plan.

Facial fat is not a uniform layer: it is divided into distinct compartments separated by thin partitions. Some, deep ones, support the structure; others, superficial ones, provide the contours. With age, the deep compartments shrink, while some superficial ones become heavier or slide. Restoring the deep compartments with well-placed injections restores support and partly repositions the superficial tissues.

Ligaments connect the skin and soft tissues to the bone at specific points on the face, such as below the cheekbone or along the jaw. They act as anchor points. With age, they loosen and the tissues sag between them, forming folds and jowls. Some points in the method aim to reinforce support around these anchors, for a lifting effect.

The facial bones change with age: the eye sockets widen, cheekbone projection diminishes, the jaw angle opens and the chin recedes slightly. These changes deprive the tissues of their support. Deep injections, in contact with the bone, can partly compensate for this loss of framework, which explains the importance of support points in the method.

Because the structures of the face are linked, treating one support point can improve several areas at once. Restoring the cheekbones can soften under-eye hollows and the fold between the nose and mouth; supporting the facial contour can soften marionette lines; projecting the chin can improve the neck and jawline. It is this cascade effect that often makes it possible to achieve a global result with a reasonable quantity of product.

At the heart of the method is the idea that our face involuntarily sends messages to others. A face can look tired, sad, stern, annoyed or old, even when the person feels in top form. These impressions, called emotional attributes, are linked to specific changes: hollows under the eyes, drooping corners of the mouth, a frown line between the eyebrows, low eyebrows, loss of volume in the cheekbones. The method seeks to soften negative attributes and reinforce positive ones, such as a rested, welcoming or attractive look.

Studies on face perception show that we form an impression of someone in a fraction of a second: trustworthiness, tiredness, kindness, age. These largely unconscious judgements are based on specific facial cues: the position of the eyebrows, how open the eyes are, the direction of the corners of the mouth, volumes. The method draws on this reality to act on the cues that convey unwanted impressions.

The face is our primary communication tool. Even before we speak, it conveys information about our state, our mood and our age. These messages are read by others in a fraction of a second. That is why a face that looks tired, sad or stern can influence relationships, at work as in personal life, even when these impressions do not reflect reality. The emotional attributes approach seeks to restore a facial language that is more faithful to what the person feels.

In professional life, the impression conveyed by the face can matter: a tired look may be interpreted as a lack of energy, a stern look as a lack of openness. Some people seek a consultation for this reason, wanting their face to better reflect their energy or kindness. The harmonisation then aims for a subtle effect, compatible with their professional environment.

In personal relationships, a face that looks sad or angry can prompt repeated questions or misunderstandings: "Are you all right?", "Are you angry?". These well-meaning but tiresome remarks are often what prompts the decision. When the face better reflects the inner state, these misunderstandings diminish.

Feeling in tune with your face can improve self-confidence. Many patients describe a sense of well-being after treatment, not because they have been transformed, but because they recognise themselves better in the mirror and in photos. This benefit is all the greater when the result remains natural.

In contrast to negative attributes, some attributes are sought after: a rested, welcoming, confident, attractive, youthful look. They are associated with balanced volumes, open eyes, slightly upturned corners of the mouth and a well-defined facial contour. The doctor may seek to reinforce these impressions, always respecting the person's features.

Many patients describe a mismatch between what they feel and what their face expresses: "I feel fine, but people tell me I look tired", "I'm in a good mood, but people ask me if I'm angry". This mismatch can weigh on daily life, at work as in personal life. Reducing this gap is one of the main goals of the approach.

Some doctors use scales or questionnaires to assess attributes before and after treatment: the patient, or observers, rate the impression the face conveys in a photo. These tools make it possible to measure the effect of treatment beyond the mere disappearance of a wrinkle, and to check that the emotional goal has been achieved.

The method does not aim for an ideal or standard face. Every face has its own proportions, shape and character. The goal is to soften unwanted impressions while preserving the person's identity. A good result can be recognised by the fact that the person recognises themselves, as do those close to them, simply with a more rested or serene look.

One of the goals of the approach is to preserve the face's natural expression. Deep support points do not hinder movement; mobile areas, such as the lips or the area around the mouth, are treated with soft gels and moderate quantities. The doctor checks the result at rest and in motion, asking the patient to smile, talk and frown.

Combined with hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin must also preserve expression: an appropriate dose softens expression lines without freezing the face. In the global approach, toxin is used mainly to correct involuntary expressions, such as a permanent frown or corners of the mouth pulled downwards, rather than to immobilise the face.

Once the result has stabilised, there are no particular constraints: you can exercise, go in the sun with protection and live normally. It is simply advisable to inform healthcare professionals about the injections in the case of dental treatment, vaccination or facial procedures, and to watch out for any unusual signs.

Day to day, harmonisation requires no special care once the first few days have passed. A simple skincare routine, sun protection and a healthy lifestyle are enough to preserve the result. It is useful to note the date of the session to schedule maintenance, and to inform healthcare professionals about the injections in the case of dental treatment, vaccination or facial procedures. If you have a question or notice an unusual sign, the doctor remains your first point of contact. It is better to contact them than to wait, even for a question that seems minor: a quick answer is reassuring and makes it possible, if necessary, to act early. Many clinics also accept a photo for an initial opinion, which makes it possible to know quickly whether a consultation is needed or whether you can simply wait until the scheduled check-up. This availability is part of the quality of follow-up and contributes to patients' peace of mind during the weeks following treatment, particularly with a very first experience of facial injections, which is often a source of small worries.

Those close to you often notice a change without being able to identify it: "You look rested", "Have you changed your hairstyle?", "Have you just come back from holiday?". This is the sign of a successful result. Everyone is free to talk about it or not.

When people are asked what bothers them, they often name a specific wrinkle. But what they actually experience is often being told that they look tired or sad. By starting from this impression, the doctor can identify all the changes that cause it and propose a treatment that truly addresses it. This approach aligns the patient's expectations with the doctor's plan.

Many people do not realise the impression their face conveys, because they mainly see it from the front, in a mirror, with a deliberate expression. Candid photos, videos or remarks from those around them sometimes reveal a face that is more tired or sterner than they imagined. Analysis during the consultation, with photos from several angles, helps people become aware of these impressions and decide what they would like to change.

The mirror reverses the face and shows us a familiar image, from the front, often with unflattering lighting. It shows neither the profile, nor the three-quarter view, nor the face in motion. Photos and videos, more faithful to what others see, are useful for understanding the impressions conveyed.

The gap between our self-image and the image we convey can weigh on self-confidence. Facial harmonisation can reduce this gap. It does not, however, resolve deep dissatisfaction or excessive preoccupation with a detail. In such situations, psychological support is more helpful than an injection.

Harmonisation can make a face look more rested, more serene and more balanced. It does not turn one face into another, does not make all wrinkles disappear and does not replace surgery for significant laxity. Realistic expectations, discussed during the consultation, are the key to good satisfaction.

Satisfaction rests on accurate analysis, a clear plan, precise execution, measured quantities, attentive follow-up and a relationship of trust. The most satisfied patients are often those who clearly expressed the impression they wished to change, and whose doctor knew how to exercise restraint.

During the consultation, the doctor may ask: "What do people say about your face?", "Do you feel you look tired, sad or stern?", "How would you like to be perceived?". These questions, unusual for many patients, help to pin down the goal more precisely and avoid focusing on a detail.

The analysis is carried out from the front, in profile and at three-quarters, at rest and in motion. The doctor assesses volumes, the proportions between the thirds of the face, the position of the eyebrows, the depth of under-eye hollows, cheekbone support, the definition of the facial contour, chin projection and skin quality. Standardised photos are taken. This analysis makes it possible to prioritise the points to be treated.

Not all areas are treated at the same time. The doctor often starts with the support points, which have the greatest effect on the face as a whole, such as the cheekbones and temples, then treats the finishing areas, such as under-eye hollows, lips or folds. This hierarchy makes it possible to judge the effect of the first procedures before adding product elsewhere, and to avoid using more than necessary.

The usual order can be summarised as follows: first the support points, cheekbones and temples; then the frame, jawline and chin; finally the finishing touches, under-eye hollows, folds, lines and lips. Botulinum toxin is combined as needed. The doctor adapts this order to the face and to the patient's priorities.

Face shape influences the choice of points. A round face often benefits from being structured by lateral cheekbone support and jawline definition, rather than by adding volume in the centre. A square face, often associated with a strong jaw, can be softened by cheekbone support and, sometimes, botulinum toxin in the masseter. A long face benefits from lateral volume that visually widens it. A heart-shaped face, wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, can be balanced by strengthening the chin.

No face is perfectly symmetrical. Some asymmetries are slight and contribute to the face's character; others, more marked, can be bothersome. The doctor identifies them during the analysis and can adapt the quantities on each side to reduce them. They will explain that perfect symmetry is neither possible nor desirable.

Facial features vary according to ethnic background: cheekbone projection, eye shape, lip thickness, nose width, jaw structure. A respectful approach adapts the points and quantities to these characteristics, without seeking to erase them or impose a single model. The doctor discusses with the patient what they wish to preserve.

The face is often described in three thirds: from the top of the forehead to the eyebrows, from the eyebrows to the base of the nose, and from the base of the nose to the chin. Balance between these thirds contributes to harmony. With age, the middle and lower thirds change. Injections can rebalance these proportions, for example by slightly lengthening a short chin or restoring volume in the midface.

In profile, harmony depends on the relationship between the forehead, nose, lips and chin. A receding chin makes the nose look bigger and the lips more projected; a well-projected chin balances the whole. The doctor observes the profile and may suggest treating the chin, sometimes the lips or small irregularities of the nose, for a more harmonious silhouette.

The three-quarter view is often how others see us, and it best reveals cheekbone support and the definition of the facial contour. A good treatment particularly improves this view. The doctor checks the result from this angle, in addition to the front view.

The cheekbones are often the starting point of treatment. With age, their volume decreases and descends, which deepens under-eye hollows, accentuates folds and gives a tired look. Restoring their support, with deep injections onto the bone at precise points, lifts the midface and indirectly improves neighbouring areas. The doctor respects the natural shape of the cheekbones to avoid an artificial look.

The cheekbones can be treated in several ways, depending on the desired effect. Placement high and to the outside of the arch gives a lifting and structuring effect. Placement further forward adds volume and roundness. Lower placement supports the midface and improves under-eye hollows and the fold. The doctor chooses according to face shape, sex and expectations, avoiding creating cheekbones that are too high or too round, which give an artificial look.

The temples become hollow with age, giving the face a more angular, tired appearance, and can make the eyebrow look lower. Filling them softens the upper face and helps open up the eyes. This area, rich in blood vessels, requires a precise technique.

Temple filling must remain discreet: the aim is to soften a depression, not to create a bump. Well-performed filling goes unnoticed but markedly improves the harmony of the upper face. In some people, it slightly lifts the tail of the eyebrow.

Supporting the tail of the eyebrow with small injections can open up the eyes and soften a tired or sad look. Botulinum toxin is often combined to relax the muscles that lower the eyebrow or wrinkle the forehead. This combination is common in the global approach.

The position of the eyebrow strongly influences expression. A low eyebrow that droops at the outer end gives a sad or tired look; an eyebrow that is too high, a surprised look. The aim is a natural position, suited to sex and face shape. Supporting the tail of the eyebrow with hyaluronic acid, filling the temples and botulinum toxin on the muscles that lower it are the usual tools. Small variations are enough to change the expression markedly.

In women, a slightly arched eyebrow with a slightly raised tail is often sought. In men, the eyebrow is lower, more horizontal and thicker; raising it would give a feminine or surprised look. The doctor adapts the procedures to these differences, for a rested look that remains true to each person's character.

Heavy upper eyelids or excess skin cannot be treated with injections: they require a blepharoplasty. Injections can improve the area around the eyes, temples, eyebrow and under-eye hollows, but cannot remove skin. The doctor refers patients to a surgeon when necessary.

Hollow under-eye areas are treated with a suitable product, in small quantities, often after restoring cheekbone support, which already improves the area. The technique is delicate because of the thinness of the skin and the risk of persistent swelling. Not all dark circles can be treated with injections; the doctor identifies the cause.

The under-eye area is where the doctor most often needs to know when to hold back. Very thin skin, fat bags, a tendency to swell or significant pigmentation are reasons not to inject, or to inject very little. Cheekbone support is often enough to improve the area. When bags are present, eyelid surgery is more appropriate.

Brown dark circles, caused by pigmentation, or bluish ones, caused by blood vessels visible through the skin, do not respond to volume injections. They call for depigmenting treatments, gentle peels, lasers or improving skin quality. Injecting a product in these situations could even make the appearance worse.

The folds between the nose and mouth and marionette lines are often treated last, after supporting the cheekbones and facial contour, which already softens them. Moderate filling then completes the result. Directly filling a deep fold without restoring neighbouring support can make the face look heavy.

The lines running down from the corners of the mouth towards the chin result from loss of volume, laxity and the action of a muscle that pulls the corners of the mouth downwards. The plan often combines support for the chin and facial contour, moderate filling of the line and a small dose of botulinum toxin. The result is a less sad expression.

The nasolabial fold is often the first area patients mention. Yet filling it directly is not always the best solution. In the structural approach, cheekbone support is restored first, which often softens the fold. Moderate filling can then complete the result. An overfilled fold can make the face look heavy and create a sausage-like ridge.

The lips are treated to restore volume, define the outline, hydrate or correct an asymmetry. In the global approach, they are balanced with the rest of the face: lips that are too full in a hollow face look artificial. Moderate quantities, adapted to the proportions, give the most natural results.

In a global approach, the lips are treated according to the harmony of the face. The doctor observes their proportions, the ratio between the upper and lower lip, their relationship with the nose and chin, and their volume relative to the cheekbones. They may decide to treat the outline, volume, hydration or the corners of the mouth. Often, a small quantity combined with chin support is enough to improve the whole.

In younger people, the request often concerns volume or outline. With age, the lips become thinner, the upper lip lengthens, the outline fades and small wrinkles appear around the mouth. Treatment then aims to restore the outline, moderate volume and hydration, rather than significant volume.

The small vertical lines above the upper lip can be softened with a very fluid gel, sometimes combined with a small dose of botulinum toxin and skin treatments. They often require several combined approaches for a satisfactory result.

When the tip of the chin lacks projection, the profile looks receding, the neck seems thicker and marionette lines stand out more. Precise injections into the chin improve projection, length or width, depending on the face. This procedure often has a dramatic effect on the harmony of the profile.

The chin can be modified in three dimensions: forward projection, downward length and sideways width. The doctor chooses according to the profile, face shape and sex. A well-balanced chin often transforms the whole face with little product.

Definition of the jaw angle and the facial contour is a key element of a youthful, structured face. Injections along the jaw and at the angle can redefine this contour, particularly in men, or as soon as the facial contour starts to loosen. Combined with cheekbone support, they contribute to a non-surgical lifting effect.

The facial contour is one of the most visible markers of age. Over time, the jaw loses its definition, jowls form and the angle fades. Several tools are combined: cheekbone support, which slightly lifts the cheek tissues; points along the angle and border of the jaw; chin projection, which tightens the neckline. Botulinum toxin in the neck muscle that pulls the facial contour downwards can complete the plan. The effect is a sharper contour, without surgery, for mild to moderate laxity.

Jowls result from the loosening of the cheek tissues, which slide downwards and accumulate above the jaw. Injections can soften them by supporting the tissues above and redefining the jaw around them. They do not remove excess tissue; when jowls are significant, a facelift is more effective.

Hollow cheeks, below the cheekbone, give a gaunt or tired look, particularly in slim people or after weight loss. Specific cheek points make it possible to restore this volume, deep or more superficially depending on the cause. The filling must remain discreet, so as not to round the face excessively.

Small irregularities of the nose, such as a slight bump or a slightly drooping tip, can be corrected with precise injections, as part of profile harmonisation. This highly vascularised area requires particular expertise. Injections do not reduce a large nose and do not replace rhinoplasty for significant corrections.

A flat or slightly hollow forehead can be treated in some cases, to soften the contour of the upper face. Forehead wrinkles, on the other hand, are treated with botulinum toxin. The area is vascularised and requires caution. Forehead treatment is less common than treatment of the temples or cheekbones.

The neck is generally not treated with the method's hyaluronic acid points, but it benefits indirectly from strengthening the chin and jaw, which improves the neckline. Neck wrinkles and laxity call for other treatments, such as botulinum toxin for neck bands, skin boosters or, in the case of significant laxity, surgery.

With age, the earlobes can become thinner and wrinkled. A small injection gives them a fuller appearance. This discreet procedure, sometimes offered alongside a harmonisation, contributes to a coherent overall look.

Some protocols derived from the method offer a set of points, injected in the same session, to achieve an overall lifting effect on the face: support for the cheekbones, temples, eyebrow, facial contour and chin. These protocols aim for a discreet, natural non-surgical lifting effect. They do not replace a surgical facelift when laxity is significant, but can markedly improve mild to moderate laxity.

Among the protocols derived from the method, some offer a facial lift using a defined number of points, distributed across the cheekbones, temples, nasolabial fold, marionette lines, facial contour and chin. The idea is to treat, in one session, the most effective support points for an overall lifting effect. These protocols serve as a basis, then adapted to each face. They are not suitable for everyone: some faces only need a few points, others require a different plan.

The term medical facelift or non-surgical facelift is sometimes used to describe these protocols. It can be misleading: injections do not remove skin and do not reposition tissues as surgery does. They restore support that gives a lifting effect, often natural and noticeable, but limited. For significant laxity, a surgical facelift remains the gold standard.

When there is significant excess skin, marked jowls, a loose neck or clearly visible under-eye bags, injections are no longer enough. Adding product in these situations risks making the face look heavy. An honest doctor will then refer the patient to a surgeon. Injections can subsequently complement the surgical result. Our page on blepharoplasty presents one of the options.

A simple test helps give you an idea: in front of a mirror, gently lift the skin of the cheeks towards the temples with your fingertips. If the improvement is moderate and the face looks mainly hollow, an injection-based approach is often suitable. If the improvement is dramatic and you see a lot of skin being repositioned, surgery will probably be more effective. This test does not replace the doctor's analysis.

Injections and surgery are not mutually exclusive. Surgery repositions loose tissues; injections restore lost volume. Combining them, in several stages, often gives the most natural results in older people. The doctor and the surgeon can coordinate their plans.

The eyes are the focus of attention when we look at a face. Tired eyes, with hollow under-eye areas, hollow temples and a drooping eyebrow tail, convey an impression of tiredness or sadness. The structural approach seeks to open up the eyes using several tools: supporting the temples and the tail of the eyebrow, supporting the cheekbones to lift the lower eyelid area, cautious filling of the under-eye hollows and possibly botulinum toxin to lift the eyebrow. These combined procedures give a more rested, brighter look.

The lower face often conveys impressions of sadness or sternness: drooping corners of the mouth, marionette lines, a receding chin, a blurred facial contour. The tools are support for the facial contour and chin, moderate filling of the lines and sometimes a small dose of botulinum toxin to relax the muscle that pulls down the corners of the mouth. The result is a more serene and welcoming expression.

The midface, with the cheekbones, is the pivot of facial harmony. It supports the eyes above and the lower face below. Restoring it often has the most global effect. That is why many plans start with the cheekbones, before judging whether other areas need treatment.

Few people look at their own profile, as the mirror almost always shows us from the front. Yet it plays an important role in how the face is perceived. A well-projected chin, a defined jaw angle, balanced lips and sometimes a small correction of the nose can transform the profile. The doctor observes the profile during the analysis and may suggest these procedures.

The outline of the face, from the temple to the chin via the cheekbone and jaw, determines its overall shape. A sharp, continuous outline is associated with youth. With age, this outline becomes hollow at the temples, flattens at the cheekbones and thickens at the jaw. Restoring these points along the outline gives a more harmonious line.

The session begins with a discussion of expectations and an analysis of the face, with photos. The doctor sometimes marks the treatment points on the skin. After disinfection, they inject the product point by point, using a needle or cannula depending on the area, regularly checking the result in a mirror with the patient. Most products contain a local anaesthetic. A session generally lasts thirty minutes to an hour.

On the day of the session, it is advisable to come without make-up, having avoided, on medical advice, medications and supplements that promote bruising in the preceding days. The doctor reviews the analysis and the plan, takes photos and disinfects the skin. Some areas can be numbed with a cream. Injections begin with the support points. Several times, the doctor sits the patient up and shows them the result in a mirror, to adjust if necessary. The session ends with aftercare instructions and booking the follow-up appointment.

You feel pressure and small pricks, sometimes a feeling of tightness when the product is injected deep. Most products contain an anaesthetic, which makes the rest of the session more comfortable. The most sensitive areas are often the lips and the area around the mouth. The doctor can take breaks if necessary.

Showing the result during the session allows the patient to take part in the decisions: assessing the effect of the first points, deciding whether to add more or stop. This interaction helps exercise restraint and achieve a result that truly matches expectations.

Depending on the extent of treatment and the quantity of product required, the plan can be carried out in one session or spread over two sessions, a few weeks apart. Spreading it out makes it possible to assess the effect of the support points before adding the finishing touches, limit swelling and spread the cost.

For a face that looks tired, with hollow temples, sagging cheekbones and under-eye hollows, a typical plan might go as follows: at the first session, support for the cheekbones and temples; at the check-up, assessment of the effect on the under-eye area; at a second session, if necessary, cautious treatment of the under-eye hollows and a small finishing touch. Botulinum toxin can be combined for crow's feet and the eyebrow.

For a face that looks sad, with drooping corners of the mouth, marionette lines and a blurred facial contour, the plan may include: cheekbone support to lift the midface, support for the facial contour and chin, moderate filling of the marionette lines and a small dose of botulinum toxin to relax the muscle that pulls down the corners of the mouth.

For a face that looks stern, with a pronounced frown line, low eyebrows and a hard gaze, the plan often combines botulinum toxin for the frown line and the muscles that lower the eyebrow with support for the temples and the tail of the eyebrow. The result is a softer look, without freezing the expression.

For an unbalanced profile, with a receding chin and a poorly defined jaw angle, the plan may include chin projection, definition of the angle and border of the jaw, and sometimes slight rebalancing of the lips. The effect on facial harmony is often significant, with moderate quantities.

For an older face, with generalised loss of volume and moderate laxity, a global lifting plan can be spread over two sessions: first the upper and middle support points, then the lower points and finishing touches. This plan requires more product, but subsequent maintenance is lighter.

The total quantity depends on the face, age, volume loss and goals. A discreet refresh may require little product; a global lift in a person with a very hollow face may require more, spread over several sessions. The doctor indicates the planned quantity in advance, generally expressed as a number of syringes.

The total quantity of product varies greatly from one person to another. A young person who wishes to balance their chin may need only one syringe. A fifty-year-old with a hollow face may need four to six syringes, spread over two sessions, for a global lift. The doctor explains their proposal, and the patient can choose to start with part of the plan.

For reasons of budget or caution, it is possible to start with the most effective points, often the cheekbones, then complete the plan later. This approach makes it possible to assess the effect and decide on the next steps. The doctor indicates which points bring the greatest benefit.

Injecting a large quantity of product in a single session increases swelling and the risk of an excessive result. Spreading the injections over two sessions allows better control of the result. This is common practice for the most extensive plans.

Botulinum toxin is often combined in a global approach: it relaxes the muscles that deepen expression lines or pull down the eyebrows and corners of the mouth, while hyaluronic acid restores support. The two treatments complement each other to soften negative attributes such as sternness or sadness. To find out more, see our page dedicated to botulinum toxin injections.

Facial harmonisation with injections is often combined with other treatments that act on different aspects. Botulinum toxin treats expression lines; skin boosters, peels and lasers improve skin quality; thread lifts can complement mild laxity. A global plan, spread over time, makes it possible to address all the signs of ageing.

Our pages on peels and thread lifts present these options.

The usual order is to restore the structure first, through the support points, then to treat expression lines, and finally skin quality. This order makes it possible to build the result in stages, judging the effect of each treatment. For a peel or laser, it is often advisable to leave a few weeks between it and injections in the same area.

After a facelift or blepharoplasty, the skin is repositioned, but lost volume is not always restored. Injections using a structural approach can complement the result by restoring support to the cheekbones, temples or chin. They are generally carried out several months after the operation, once healing is complete. Our page on the facelift presents the surgical option.

Injections can also make it possible to test a change, for example chin projection, before considering more permanent surgery. They give an idea of the result and help with decision-making. This approach is sometimes used before a genioplasty or rhinoplasty.

Volume injections are not always enough: dull, dehydrated or pigmented skin limits the overall effect. Surface treatments, combined with a skincare routine and daily sun protection, complement the harmonisation. Good-quality skin enhances the restored volumes.

The method uses hyaluronic acid products of different densities, suited to each area: firm products for deep support points, softer products for the lips and mobile areas, fluid products for under-eye hollows and fine lines. Choosing the right product for each point is as important as the point itself. Our page on hyaluronic acid injections describes these products.

The success of the approach also depends on choosing the right gel for each point. Hyaluronic acid gels differ in their firmness, their ability to resist tissue pressure, their flexibility and their capacity to attract water. A firm gel is chosen to support a cheekbone or project a chin; a soft gel for the lips, which move a lot; a fluid, low-hydrophilic gel for the under-eye area, where swelling would be problematic.

The injection plan specifies the depth for each point: in contact with the bone, in the deep fat or more superficially. Support points are generally deep, to mimic the bone structure and the deep fat compartments. Finishing points are more superficial. Respecting the correct plane improves the result and reduces the risks.

Some points are treated with a needle, for precise placement in contact with the bone; others with a cannula, to fan the product out in an area rich in blood vessels. The choice of tool depends on the point, the anatomy and the doctor's experience. A cannula reduces certain risks, but does not eliminate them.

The method suggests indicative quantities per point, often small, of the order of a few tenths of a millilitre. The doctor adapts them to the face. This precision avoids excess and allows the product to be distributed where it is most useful. The total quantity is the sum of the points treated.

Most hyaluronic acid gels contain lidocaine, a local anaesthetic, which makes the injection more comfortable. People allergic to lidocaine must say so. An anaesthetic cream can be applied before the most sensitive injections, such as the lips.

After the session, slight swelling, tenderness and sometimes bruising at the injection points are common. All of this fades within a few days. On the day itself, avoid foundation for a few hours, strenuous physical exertion, steam rooms, very hot baths and alcoholic drinks; also avoid kneading the injected areas, unless instructed otherwise. Sleeping with your head slightly raised the first night limits swelling. The result becomes clearer over two to four weeks.

During the first few days, slight swelling can give a somewhat fuller appearance than the final result, particularly at the cheekbones and lips. It gradually subsides. Bruises may appear at the injection points. It is advisable not to judge the result before the check-up and to follow the instructions: no massage, no intense heat, no intense exercise on the same day.

After the session, you may feel slight tightness or a feeling of fullness in the treated areas, particularly the cheekbones and chin. Chewing may be a little uncomfortable for the first few days if the chin or jaw has been treated. These sensations disappear quickly. Increasing pain or an unusual sensation should be reported.

During the first few days, the product may be perceptible to the touch, like a slight firmness under the skin. It gradually integrates into the tissues and becomes imperceptible. It is advisable not to massage or press on the treated areas, unless the doctor says otherwise.

You can talk, smile and eat normally after the session. During the first few days, expressions may seem slightly different because of the swelling. Everything returns to normal within a few days, and natural expression is preserved.

On the first night, it is advisable to sleep on your back with your head slightly raised, to limit swelling and avoid pressing on the treated areas. After that, normal sleeping habits can resume.

Make-up can be applied a few hours after the session, using clean products and avoiding pressing hard on the treated areas. A concealer can cover any small bruises.

After the session, a few simple steps help: applying cold through a cloth for the first few hours, sleeping with your head slightly raised, avoiding make-up for a few hours, protecting your skin from the sun and drinking enough. Corrective make-up can cover bruises after a few hours. If you notice any unusual sign, contact the doctor.

Photos taken before the session and then at the check-up are invaluable for assessing the result. As the change is global and gradual, it is sometimes difficult to see in the mirror. Comparing the photos, from the front, in profile and at three-quarters, often shows a clearer effect than expected.

A check-up is scheduled two to four weeks after the session. The doctor compares with the initial photos, checks symmetry and harmony, and can add to a point if necessary. It is also the time to plan any second session and maintenance.

To look your best at an important event, it is advisable to schedule the harmonisation two to three months beforehand, so that the swelling has disappeared, the result has stabilised and a touch-up is possible if necessary. Any combined botulinum toxin should be scheduled about a month before. A first injection within the two weeks before the event is not recommended.

Most people resume their activities the same day or the next day. To limit the visibility of any bruises, it is convenient to schedule the session at the end of the week. It is wise to avoid important appointments, photos and intense sporting activities on the same day. Dental treatment and vaccinations should be spaced a few days to two weeks apart.

Injections can be carried out in any season. In summer, it is advisable to avoid intense heat and prolonged sun exposure on the same day. In winter, there are no particular constraints. Combined treatments, such as lasers or peels, are best scheduled in autumn and winter.

Travel is possible a few days after a session. It is nevertheless wise not to leave the day after a major treatment, in case a complication requires seeing the doctor again. Air travel poses no particular problem.

The result generally lasts a year or more, depending on the products, the areas, metabolism and lifestyle. Deep support points, carried out with firm products, often last longer than the lips. Maintenance, often annual, makes it possible to keep the harmony achieved, generally using less product than at the first session.

The duration of the result varies by area. Deep support points, carried out with firm gels in less mobile areas such as the cheekbones, chin or jaw, often last more than a year, sometimes longer. In the lips, which are very mobile, the product is reabsorbed faster, often in six to twelve months. Under-eye hollows, treated with small quantities of fluid gel, can last a long time, as the area moves little.

Duration also depends on metabolism, physical activity, sun exposure, smoking, weight fluctuations and the type of gel. Very sporty people or those with a fast metabolism sometimes find the result lasts less long. A healthy lifestyle and sun protection help prolong the result.

The product does not disappear suddenly: it is reabsorbed gradually, over several months. The face therefore returns gently to its previous state, without any abrupt change. Maintenance, carried out before complete reabsorption, makes it possible to keep the result with less product.

After a first treatment, the harmony achieved is generally maintained for a year or more. Regular maintenance, often annual, makes it possible to preserve it, using less product than at the start, since part of the support persists. Over the years, the face continues to change, and the maintenance plan adapts: priority areas may change and new treatments may be considered.

To illustrate, here is how a first year often unfolds. An analysis consultation at the start of the year makes it possible to define the plan. A first session treats the support points. Three to four weeks later, the check-up makes it possible to assess the effect and plan the next steps. A second session, if planned, completes the finishing touches. Botulinum toxin can be carried out in parallel for expression lines. At the end of the year, a review with photos makes it possible to plan maintenance for the following year.

Annual maintenance consists of reanalysing the face, comparing it with the previous year's photos and topping up the points where the product has been reabsorbed. It generally requires less product and time than the first treatment. It is also the time to adjust the plan according to how the face has changed.

It is useful to keep a record of each session: date, points treated, products, quantities, name of the doctor. This information makes it possible to track progress, compare sessions and inform another doctor if necessary. The clinic can provide it on request.

For a global approach to the face, keeping the same doctor is an advantage: they know the face, the points already treated, the reactions and the preferences. Frequently changing doctors increases the risk of redundant treatments and overfilling. If you do change, it is important to pass on your injection history.

During the first treatment, it is often necessary to restore a loss of volume that has developed over years. During maintenance sessions, it is only a matter of compensating for partial reabsorption of the product and continued ageing. That is why maintenance quantities are generally smaller. Some studies also suggest that the product slightly stimulates collagen production, which helps maintain the result.

At each maintenance session, the doctor reanalyses the face, compares it with previous photos and checks that harmony is preserved. They may decide not to add anything in certain areas, or to treat new concerns. This regular reassessment prevents product build-up and the risk of overfilling.

It is possible to stop treatment at any time. The product is gradually reabsorbed and the face returns to its natural course of ageing, without accelerated ageing. People who stop simply notice that the volumes diminish little by little, over several months to more than a year.

Injections do not stop ageing: bone, fat, ligaments and skin continue to change. They soften the visible effects. Over the years, when laxity becomes significant, injections may no longer be enough and surgery may be considered. An honest doctor will say so at the right time.

The risks are those of hyaluronic acid injections: swelling, bruising, asymmetry, small lumps and, more rarely, infection or a delayed inflammatory reaction. The most serious risk is accidental injection into a blood vessel, with a risk of skin damage and, exceptionally, visual impairment. Sound knowledge of anatomy, the use of cannulas in certain areas and the immediate availability of the enzyme that dissolves the product are essential.

Most side effects of injections are mild and temporary. Some are nonetheless worth knowing about, so that you can recognise them and respond.

Vascular occlusion occurs when the product enters a blood vessel or compresses it. It shows up as unusual pain, blanching of the skin, then a purplish or mottled discolouration. In areas close to the eyes it can, very rarely, affect vision. Treatment relies on the rapid injection of enzyme into the area, local care and, if necessary, specialist care. Trained doctors know the danger zones and the emergency procedures.

Certain areas of the face are particularly rich in blood vessels: around the nose, the area between the eyebrows, the temples, the groove between the nose and mouth, and the eye contour. Doctors inject these areas with particular caution: use of cannulas, slow injection, small quantities and constant monitoring of the skin's appearance. Knowledge of vascular anatomy is a central part of training.

The enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid is used as an emergency in the event of vascular occlusion, but also, by appointment, to revise a disappointing result or to remove a lump, a bluish tinge or excess product. It acts quickly. A doctor who performs hyaluronic acid injections must always have it in the practice.

Repeated injections, in excessive quantities or poorly placed, can lead to an overfilled face: cheeks that are too full, a puffy appearance, heavier features and an altered expression. The approach based on structural support, with measured quantities, seeks precisely to avoid this pitfall. When a face is overfilled, partial dissolution of the product may be offered before building a more harmonious plan.

Some people seek a consultation after injections carried out elsewhere whose result they are unhappy with: asymmetry, overfilling, visible product. An overall analysis helps to understand what the problem is. Depending on the case, the doctor may suggest dissolving some of the product, waiting for it to be absorbed, then building a more harmonious plan. It is important to bring all available information on previous treatments.

After dissolution, it is often advisable to wait a few weeks before re-injecting, to allow the product to be eliminated and the tissues to settle. The doctor then reassesses the face and proposes a suitable plan.

Building a new plan after a correction requires careful analysis and restraint. The aim is to restore a face that looks like the person, with balanced volumes. Patients who have experienced an excessive result often particularly appreciate this gradual approach.

Rarely, nodules or swelling can appear months after an injection, sometimes triggered by an infection, dental treatment or a vaccination. These reactions require assessment by the doctor, who can propose suitable treatment such as the enzyme, medication or, more rarely, other procedures. It is useful to report any such history before a new injection.

Contact the doctor immediately if sharp pain develops, if the skin turns pale and then mottled purple, if your vision becomes blurred, if swelling worsens hour by hour, or if there is hot redness with fever. These signs are rare but require prompt treatment.

For injections to be carried out safely, the practice must meet several conditions: a doctor trained in anatomy and in managing complications, authorised and traceable products, sterile single-use equipment, rigorous disinfection, the enzyme that dissolves the product and emergency medication on hand, and availability after the session. These points can be checked during the consultation.

For each session, the doctor records the name of the product, its batch number, the quantity and the points treated. The patient can request a copy of this information. It is useful in the event of a complication, a change of doctor or a product alert.

Before the injections, the skin is carefully cleansed and disinfected, and make-up is removed. The doctor uses gloves and sterile equipment. After the session, it is advisable not to touch the treated areas and to wait a few hours before applying make-up, to limit the risk of infection.

Injections offered outside a medical practice, by unqualified people, with products of uncertain origin, expose patients to serious complications. The term MD Codes may be misused in these contexts. It is essential to make sure that the injection is performed by a doctor in an appropriate setting.

The MD Codes approach suits people who want an overall, natural result rather than the correction of a single wrinkle: a tired, sad or stern look, loss of volume, mild to moderate laxity, an unbalanced profile. It is for both women and men, generally from their thirties onwards. It is not suitable for significant laxity, which calls for surgery, or for people with a contraindication to injections.

The approach applies to all skin tones. Olive and dark skin often have different characteristics: fine lines appear later, volume loss can differ, and bone structures vary. The doctor adapts the points to these characteristics. Injections are generally well tolerated; the main concern is the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation, which is more common in these skin types.

In people with thin skin, particularly under the eyes and on the temples, the product may be more visible or palpable. The doctor chooses suitable gels, injects more deeply and uses small quantities. The results remain natural but require precise technique.

In very slim people, the face can look hollow earlier, particularly at the temples and cheeks. The structural approach can restore these volumes discreetly. Care must be taken, however, not to create too marked a contrast with the rest of the body, and to remain measured.

Significant weight loss frequently leaves hollow cheeks and temples. Restoring volume with support points gives a rested appearance. It is better to wait until weight has stabilised, otherwise the result would quickly become outdated. Weight-loss medications, which cause rapid weight loss, have made this request more common.

Endurance athletes often have a more hollow face because of their low body fat. They can benefit from a discreet restoration of volume. Some notice that the product is absorbed a little faster. It is advisable to avoid intense exercise on the day of the session.

In men, the method is adapted to respect masculine characteristics: a stronger jaw and chin, less projected cheekbones, and lower, more horizontal eyebrows. The points and quantities differ from those used in women, to avoid any feminisation of the features. Requests often concern a tired look, dark circles and jawline definition.

The male face has its own characteristics: a wider, higher forehead, lower and thicker eyebrows, less prominent and flatter cheekbones, a wider and more angular jaw, a wider, square chin and less full lips. The points used in men reinforce these features: support of the jaw and chin, discreet cheekbone volume without rounding, treatment of dark circles and appropriate toxin. The aim is a rested, structured look without any feminisation.

In some transition journeys, injections can help to feminise or masculinise the face, reversibly. To feminise, the cheekbones can be lifted, the jaw angle softened with toxin in the masseter, the eyebrows raised slightly and volume added to the lips. To masculinise, the jaw and chin can be strengthened. These approaches can precede or complement surgery. Our page on facial feminisation presents the surgical options.

In younger people, the approach often aims to improve proportions, for example the chin or lips, or to prevent a tired look from setting in. From the forties onwards, it mainly targets volume restoration. Later, it combines volume and support of the facial contour, possibly alongside other treatments or surgery.

In young adults, volumes are generally preserved. Requests tend to concern proportions: chin, lips, jawline definition, small irregularities of the nose. The doctor favours restraint and checks that the request is considered and personal, particularly when it is inspired by images seen online.

Around the forties, the first loss of volume appears at the temples, cheekbones and under the eyes, and the face may look tired. This is often the age at which the structural approach offers the most: a few well-placed support points refresh the face discreetly.

After fifty, volume loss is more marked, laxity sets in and the facial contour becomes less defined. The approach often combines support of the cheekbones and temples, definition of the facial contour, the chin and finishing touches, in one or two sessions. When laxity is significant, injections can complement surgery rather than replace it.

In women, the approach often seeks to restore a rested, radiant and harmonious face: supported and slightly lifted cheekbones, full temples, open eyes, a defined facial contour, a slim and slightly projected chin and balanced lips. The points and quantities are adapted to the shape of the face, age and expectations, while preserving the individual character of each face.

Around the menopause, volume loss and laxity accelerate because of the drop in hormones that affects skin, fat and bone. The face can change quite quickly. A structural approach, combined with skin-quality treatments, helps to manage this period. It is useful to reassess the plan more often during these years.

Injections are postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. After breastfeeding, it may be useful to wait for the face to stabilise, particularly if weight has fluctuated, before carrying out an analysis and a plan.

After sixty, the approach remains possible, with adapted goals: a more rested face, discreetly restored volume and a slightly more defined facial contour. When laxity is significant, injections often complement surgery rather than replace it. Thinner skin requires suitable products and techniques.

Any injection is postponed in the event of pregnancy, breastfeeding, an infected lesion in the area to be treated, certain active autoimmune diseases, known allergy to the components or uncontrolled clotting disorders. A history of herpes, reactions to previous injections or non-absorbable products injected in the past must be reported.

Certain situations require particular attention: previous injections of non-absorbable products, autoimmune diseases, treatments that alter immunity, a history of reactions to injections, previous facial surgery. It is important to report them, as they may change the plan, lead to the choice of other products or to postponing treatment.

If products have been injected in the past, particularly non-absorbable products or products of unknown nature, this must be reported. These products may react to new injections or complicate the plan. Imaging can sometimes be useful to locate them.

After facial surgery such as a facelift, blepharoplasty or rhinoplasty, the anatomy may be altered. The doctor takes this into account when choosing points and techniques. It is useful to bring the operation reports if possible.

Recent or planned dental treatment, particularly implants, must be reported, as a dental infection can encourage a reaction around the injected product. It is often advisable to space injections and dental treatment by a few days to two weeks.

Some doctors advise spacing a vaccination and a hyaluronic acid injection by a few days to two weeks, to limit the risk of an inflammatory reaction around the product. It is worth discussing this with the doctor if both are planned close together.

The method improves volume, support and proportions, but it does not remove excess skin, does not correct large fat pads and does not replace surgery for marked laxity. Its effects are temporary and require maintenance. Finally, it remains a guide: the result depends above all on the doctor's experience and judgement.

An ethical approach to facial harmonisation rests on a few principles: responding to a personal and considered request, giving honest information on benefits, limits and risks, offering the quantity needed and no more, respecting the identity of the face, knowing when to refuse or refer to another solution, and ensuring follow-up and management of complications.

A doctor may refuse to treat, or to treat certain areas, if they consider that the result would be excessive, that the face is already overfilled, that the request is disproportionate or that another solution would be more suitable. This refusal, sometimes frustrating, is a sign of professionalism. It is helpful to understand the reasons.

Social media spreads images of highly sculpted faces, with high cheekbones, a very defined jaw and full lips. These images, often retouched or filtered, can create unrealistic expectations. The structural and emotional approach goes in the opposite direction: preserving the identity of the face and seeking a natural look.

Before treatment, the doctor explains the plan, the products, the quantities, the recovery, the risks and the alternatives, and obtains the patient's consent. It is important to understand what will be done, to ask all your questions and to take time to think, particularly for a first treatment.

Medical information, facial analysis and photos are covered by medical confidentiality. Photos cannot be used for advertising purposes without specific written consent, which you are free to refuse.

These stories are typical cases, inspired by common situations; they do not describe real patients.

Corinne, 49, "people tell me I look tired"

Corinne felt well, but those around her often asked if she was tired. The analysis showed hollow temples, sagging cheekbones and pronounced dark circles. The doctor first treated the cheekbones and temples, then, in a second session, the dark circles. Her loved ones noticed that she looked rested, without guessing why.

Marc, 54, a stern look

Marc, a business owner, came across as stern despite himself. The analysis showed a pronounced frown line, low eyebrows and marionette lines. The doctor combined toxin for the frown line with injections to support the corners of the mouth and the chin, respecting his masculine features. His expression softened.

Élodie, 36, an unbalanced profile

Élodie disliked her profile, which she found receding. The analysis showed a poorly projected chin and slightly unbalanced lips. The doctor projected the chin and balanced the lips with moderate quantities. She was surprised by the effect on her whole face.

A face that has already had many injections

A forty-five-year-old woman seeks a consultation after numerous injections carried out elsewhere; she finds her face puffy and no longer recognises herself. The analysis shows overfilled cheeks and disproportionate lips. The doctor first suggests dissolving some of the product, then, a few months later, building a more measured plan focused on support. She gradually regains a face that looks like her.

A man who wants a more defined jaw

A forty-year-old man wants a more defined jaw. The analysis shows a receding chin and a poorly defined angle. The doctor suggests projecting the chin and strengthening the jaw angle, respecting his features. The result gives structure to the lower face and improves his profile.

A woman who only wants her lips done

A thirty-two-year-old woman wants fuller lips. The analysis shows a slight lack of chin projection. The doctor suggests a moderate lip injection and a small chin projection to balance the profile. She is surprised to find that the whole face looks more harmonious than with the lips alone.

These situations illustrate the logic of the method: looking at the face as a whole, understanding why an area bothers you, sometimes acting elsewhere, remaining measured and knowing how to correct an excessive result. They also show the importance of dialogue between patient and doctor.

Patients often describe a result that is surprising in its subtlety: their loved ones find them rested and well, without identifying any specific change. They appreciate the in-depth analysis and the fact that the doctor explains why they are treating one area rather than another. Some, used to targeted injections, discover that an overall approach can require less product in the area that originally bothered them.

A woman who feared an artificial look

A fifty-two-year-old woman had hesitated for a long time, fearing an artificial result. The analysis showed volume loss in the temples and cheekbones. The doctor began with a moderate quantity in the cheekbones. Reassured by the natural result, she added the temples a few months later.

A man tired of the comments

A forty-seven-year-old man often heard that he looked exhausted. The analysis showed hollow dark circles and hollow temples. The doctor treated the temples and cheekbones, then the dark circles with caution. His colleagues thought he looked rested after his holiday, without suspecting any treatment.

A woman who wanted to regain her facial contour

A fifty-eight-year-old woman wanted to regain a defined facial contour. The analysis showed moderate laxity. The doctor proposed a lift in two sessions, informing her that the effect would be more modest than a facelift. Satisfied with the result, she is nonetheless considering surgery in a few years, complemented by injections.

In Switzerland, many doctors trained in the method practise it, whether dermatologists, plastic surgeons or aesthetic doctors, in all the major urban areas. Prices depend mainly on the quantity of product used. Differences are expressed here as a percentage relative to Geneva, for a comparable treatment.

In Switzerland, the structural and emotional approach to injection is widespread, particularly in the major cities. Doctors trained in the method or in equivalent approaches work in dermatology, plastic surgery or aesthetic medicine practices. Prices vary mainly according to the quantity of product and the doctor's experience; differences between cities remain modest.

Emotional facial analysis relies on precise dialogue between patient and doctor: what impressions the face conveys, how you would like to be perceived. Being able to express yourself in your own language is therefore particularly important. In French-speaking Switzerland, consultations are held in French; elsewhere, it is worth checking the language of the practice.

Facial harmonisation requires follow-up: check-up, possible touch-up, annual maintenance. Choosing a doctor close to home or work makes this follow-up easier. For a first consultation, it can be useful to meet two doctors before choosing the one you feel most confident with.

Before making an appointment, it is useful to check that the practitioner is a licensed doctor by consulting the official register of medical professions. Hyaluronic acid injections are medical procedures and must be performed by a trained doctor in a suitable practice.

The cost of a treatment using the MD Codes approach depends mainly on the quantity of product needed, expressed as a number of syringes, and on the doctor's fees. A discreet refresh costs less than a global lift in someone with a very hollow face. Combining it with toxin adds to the cost. Our page on MD Codes prices in Switzerland details the rates.

The cost of facial harmonisation depends on several factors: the number of syringes, the type of gel, the doctor's experience, the city and the number of sessions. It is useful to think in terms of an overall budget for the year: a larger first treatment, followed by lighter maintenance. Comparing prices per syringe is not enough: the analysis, precision of placement and restraint in quantities make a big difference to the result.

The first year often includes the consultation, one or two injection sessions, the follow-up, a possible touch-up and sometimes combined treatments such as toxin. In subsequent years, maintenance is generally lighter. The doctor can provide an overall estimate.

Two offers can only be compared on an identical basis: the same facial areas, the same number of syringes, the same type of gel and the same level of support. The lowest offer sometimes simply includes less gel or omits the overall analysis. A more expensive proposal may include more product than necessary. The doctor's analysis and explanations help you judge.

Some practices charge per syringe, others per area or per programme. The price per syringe tells you exactly what is used; the price per programme can be easier to understand. In all cases, it is useful to know how many syringes are planned and what happens if an additional quantity is needed.

At the follow-up visit, a small touch-up may be needed to balance one side or complete a point. Some practices include it in the initial price, others charge according to the quantity used. It is useful to know this before the session.

A quote should specify the areas treated, the number of syringes planned, the type of product, the number of sessions, the fees and the conditions for follow-up and touch-ups. It is useful to know whether the price is calculated per syringe or per area, and what happens if an additional quantity is needed.

Price differences between Swiss cities remain modest: Geneva and Zurich are generally the most expensive, with medium-sized cities and less urban regions slightly cheaper. These differences are much smaller than those linked to the quantity of product, the type of gel and the doctor's experience. It therefore makes more sense to choose your doctor based on their expertise than to travel for a small saving.

It can be worthwhile travelling to see a doctor who is particularly experienced in the global approach, especially for a substantial first plan. You then need to plan the journeys for the follow-up and maintenance, or make sure that local follow-up is available if you have questions.

In a global approach, much of the value lies in the analysis: understanding the face, identifying the causes of the impressions it conveys, prioritising the points. A doctor who devotes time to this analysis and explains it clearly provides value that cannot be measured solely in number of syringes.

Detailed prices, by city and by type of treatment, are presented on our page on MD Codes prices in Switzerland. They are given as a guide and must be confirmed with the chosen practice.

For a global approach to the face, the doctor's experience is essential. It is useful to check that they are a licensed doctor, listed in the official register, trained in aesthetic medicine and in this method or an equivalent approach, and that they perform these injections regularly. Photos of natural results in people with a similar profile give an idea of their style. The consultation should allow time for discussion, without pressure.

Doctors who practise the method follow specific training, often organised by medical societies or manufacturers, covering facial anatomy, reading emotional attributes, mapping the points, choosing gels and managing incidents. Nothing then replaces accumulated practice: do not hesitate to ask the practitioner where they learned the method and how long they have been using it.

Several signs help to recognise an experienced doctor: an in-depth analysis of the face before any proposal, attention to impressions and proportions, clear explanations of the points and quantities, a preference for restraint, photos of natural results, availability of the enzyme and the ability to say no. Conversely, a standardised proposal with no analysis, or pressure to use a lot of product, should prompt caution.

The consultation often lasts longer than a simple injection consultation, as it includes an in-depth analysis of the face and a discussion of the impressions it conveys. The doctor explains their analysis, proposes a prioritised plan, indicates the planned quantity of product and the budget, and allows time for reflection. Some doctors carry out the treatment the same day, others prefer a second appointment.

The consultation often takes place in several stages. First, a discussion of what brings the patient in, what they hear said about their face, their expectations and their fears. Next, the analysis: the doctor observes the face from different angles, at rest and in motion, palpates the areas and takes photos. Then they explain what they see, linking the impressions conveyed to anatomical changes. Finally, they propose a prioritised plan with the points, quantities, timetable and budget. The patient can ask all their questions and go away to think it over.

The photos taken during the analysis, from the front, in profile and at three-quarter view, at rest and smiling, serve as a reference. The doctor can use them to explain their analysis, and they will make it possible to compare the result. They are protected by medical confidentiality.

Some doctors provide a written plan, with the areas to be treated, the order, the planned quantities and the budget. This document helps you reflect, compare with another opinion and track the treatment over time. It is worth asking for one if it is not offered.

An analysis consultation often lasts longer than a simple injection consultation, because of the discussion and in-depth analysis. It is useful to allow enough time and not to feel rushed.

To prepare for the consultation, it is useful to think about what you hear said about your face and the impression you would like to convey, to note your treatments and allergies and previous injections, and to bring a few photos of yourself when younger. Coming without make-up makes the analysis easier.

After the consultation, it is useful to take time to think, particularly for a first treatment or a substantial plan. Rereading the plan, checking the budget, possibly comparing with another opinion and making sure that the goal matches your expectations helps you decide with peace of mind.

• What impressions do you think my face conveys?
• Which points do you propose to treat, and in what order?
• How many syringes do you plan to use?
• Which products will you use?
• One or two sessions?
• Should toxin be combined?
• How long will the result last?
• Do you have the enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid?

• What impression does my face convey, and which one would I like it to convey?
• Do I understand why the doctor is treating one area rather than another?
• Is the plan spread out over time?
• Am I comfortable with the budget for the first year and for maintenance?
• Did I feel listened to and confident?
• Have I taken time to think?

If in doubt, it is better to wait, reread the plan, ask the doctor for clarification or seek a second opinion. Starting with a single support point, such as the cheekbones, also lets you try the approach before committing to a more complete plan.

For a first experience, many doctors suggest starting with the most effective support points, using a moderate quantity. This first step lets you appreciate the effect of the approach, discover the sensations and recovery, and build the rest of the plan with full knowledge.

It is always possible to change your mind before treatment, and even afterwards: hyaluronic acid can be dissolved if the result is not right. This reversibility is reassuring, but should not lead you to neglect careful thought beforehand.

Other misconceptions circulate: that the approach is only for older people, whereas it adapts to all adult ages; that it is more painful, whereas most products contain an anaesthetic; that it always requires a lot of product, whereas the quantity depends on the face; that it produces a standard face, whereas on the contrary it seeks to preserve identity. Understanding the method better helps you approach it with peace of mind.

Making an informed choice means understanding what the method can and cannot do, knowing the risks, the budget and the maintenance, choosing a competent doctor and feeling free to decide. With these elements, facial harmonisation can be a positive and lasting experience.

A good result can be recognised by several signs: the face looks rested, calmer or more open; loved ones notice you look better without identifying the procedure; the expression remains natural; proportions are respected; the face looks neither puffy nor frozen; the person recognises themselves. The improvement is often most visible in three-quarter-view photos.

An excessive result can be recognised by cheeks that are too full or too high, disproportionate lips, a puffy appearance, an altered expression, a face that no longer quite looks like the person. These results often come from too many or poorly placed injections. They can be corrected by partial dissolution of the product.

• I have expressed the impression I want to change.
• I know the proposed points and their order.
• I know the planned quantity of product and the budget.
• I know whether one or two sessions are planned.
• I have checked the doctor's training and experience.
• I know which symptoms mean I must call without delay.
• The follow-up appointment is already booked.

MD Codes offer a global approach to hyaluronic acid injection, based on analysing the impressions the face conveys and on a map of precise points, which favours supporting structures rather than filling wrinkles one by one. When performed well, it gives natural, harmonious results that generally last a year or more. In Switzerland, many trained doctors practise it. Our page on aesthetic medicine in Switzerland and our guide present the other treatments.

The injections used in facial harmonisation are presented in detail on our page dedicated to hyaluronic acid injection, and the associated treatments on our pages on toxin, thread lifts and chemical peels. Our page on aesthetic medicine in Switzerland takes a practical angle, and our guide presents all the treatments.

• MD Codes are a method of analysis and injection, not a product.
• The approach starts from the impressions the face conveys.
• It favours supporting structures such as the cheekbones and temples.
• It can improve several areas at once through a cascade effect.
• The result is natural when quantities remain measured.
• The effect generally lasts a year or more, with maintenance.
• Choosing a trained and experienced doctor is essential.

Facial harmonisation through a structural and emotional approach has changed the way injections are conceived: it is no longer about filling wrinkles, but about restoring the support and expression that suit the person. Practised well, it gives discreet, natural and lasting results. The most important thing remains dialogue with an attentive doctor who knows how to look at the face as a whole and show restraint.

The analysis carried out during the consultation is often a revelation: many patients learn why their face looks tired or sad, which areas have changed and how the structures are linked. This understanding helps you make informed choices, appreciate the result and take better care of your face day to day.

The approach is based on dialogue: the patient expresses their impressions and expectations, the doctor explains their analysis and proposals, and together they build a plan. This dialogue continues during the session, with the mirror, and at the follow-up. A good relationship of trust is essential for a satisfactory result.

Facial harmonisation is often a long-term process, with annual maintenance and regular reassessment. The doctor becomes a partner who accompanies the changes in the face over the years, adapting the plan and, when the time comes, proposing other solutions if necessary.

Budget

Price differences between cities and cantons, a breakdown of the quote and ways to save are detailed on our page MD Codes and facial harmonisation: prices in Switzerland.

Related procedures

• Hyaluronic acid injections in Switzerland
• Botulinum toxin injections in Switzerland
• Thread lifts in Switzerland
• Sculptra buttock injections in Switzerland
• Chemical peels in Switzerland

Our guides

• Aesthetic medicine in Switzerland
• Guide to aesthetic medicine in Switzerland
• Cosmetic surgery in Switzerland

Method, areas, session, recovery, risks and prices: answers to frequently asked questions.

Understanding

What are MD Codes? A hyaluronic acid injection method based on a map of precise points on the face.

Where does the name come from? From the initials of the plastic surgeon who developed the method.

Is it a product? No, it is a method of analysis and injection.

What is a code? A combination of letters and numbers designating a precise injection point.

What is an emotional attribute? The impression the face conveys, such as tiredness, sadness or sternness.

Why start from emotions? Because it is often the impression conveyed that bothers people, more than a specific wrinkle.

Differences

How does it differ from a conventional injection? The method restores the support of structures instead of filling each wrinkle.

Why treat the cheekbones for a fold? Because their sagging helps deepen the fold.

Is the result more natural? That is the aim, with appropriate quantities.

Does the method replace a facelift? No, only for mild to moderate laxity.

Areas

Which areas are treated? Cheekbones, temples, eyebrows, dark circles, folds, lips, chin, jaw.

Where do you start? Often with the support points, such as the cheekbones and temples.

Are the lips always treated? No, only if it improves harmony.

Is the chin important? Yes, it strongly influences the balance of the profile.

Session

How long does a session last? Generally thirty minutes to an hour.

Is it painful? Not very; most products contain an anaesthetic.

How many sessions? One or two, depending on the extent of the treatment.

How many syringes? From one to several, depending on the face and the goals.

Is toxin combined? Often, for expression lines and the expression of the eyes.

Recovery and results

Is the recovery significant? Slight swelling and sometimes bruising for a few days.

When is the result visible? Immediately, with a final result in two to four weeks.

How long does the result last? Generally a year or more.

Is maintenance needed? Yes, often annually, with less product.

Risks

What are the risks? Swelling, bruising, asymmetry and, rarely, occlusion of a blood vessel.

Can the product be dissolved? Yes, hyaluronic acid can be dissolved with an enzyme.

Which signs should raise the alarm? Intense pain, blanching of the skin, visual disturbance.

Facial analysis

How does the analysis work? The doctor observes the face from the front, in profile and in motion, and takes photos.

Should I bring old photos? They are useful for understanding what has changed.

Does the doctor ask about my emotions? They often ask what impression you think you convey and how you would like to be perceived.

Do proportions matter? Yes, the balance between the forehead, the middle and the lower face is assessed.

Does the shape of the face change the plan? Yes, a round, square or long face is not treated in the same way.

Can asymmetry be corrected? It can be reduced with different injections on each side.

Facial ageing

Why does the face become hollow? The fat compartments shrink and descend, and the bone resorbs slightly.

What are the facial ligaments? Attachments that hold the tissues in place; their loosening contributes to sagging.

Why do the temples become hollow? The fat and muscle of the temple diminish with age.

Why do the corners of the mouth droop? Loss of support and the action of certain muscles that pull downwards.

Points and techniques

Why inject onto the bone? To recreate deep support, like a foundation.

Needle or cannula? Both are used depending on the area and the injection plane.

How many points are injected? It varies according to the face, from a few points to a wider set.

Are the codes the same for everyone? They serve as a guide; the doctor adapts them.

Can the nose be treated with this method? Some doctors correct small irregularities, with great caution.

Combinations

Can skinboosters and MD Codes be combined? Yes, to improve skin quality in addition to volume.

And a chemical peel? Yes, generally at a distance from the injections.

And thread lifts? Yes, in some cases of mild laxity.

And a laser? Yes, spacing the sessions according to the areas.

Can MD Codes complement surgery? Yes, to restore volume after a facelift or blepharoplasty.

Men

Are MD Codes suitable for men? Yes, with points adapted to masculine features.

What do men ask for? Tired look, dark circles, jaw and chin definition.

Could the result feminise the face? Not if the technique respects masculine characteristics.

Results in practice

Will my loved ones see the difference? They often notice a rested look without identifying the procedure.

Will my face look puffy? Not with appropriate quantities and good placement.

Does the result change over time? It settles within a few weeks and then fades slowly.

What happens if I stop? The face gradually returns to its natural course.

Do I need a touch-up every year? Often, with less product than at the start.

After the session

Can I work the next day? Yes, in most cases.

Can I wear make-up? After a few hours.

Can I exercise? Not on the same day.

Can I sleep on my side? It is better to sleep on your back the first night.

Can I go to the dentist? It is better to wait one to two weeks.

Can I wear glasses? Yes, without pressing hard on the cheekbones in the first few days.

Complications in detail

What is a bluish appearance under the eyes? A reflection of product placed too superficially, correctable with the enzyme.

Is persistent swelling under the eyes possible? Yes, rarely; it can generally be corrected.

Can the product migrate? Rarely, mainly in the event of excess or poor placement.

What is an overfilled face? A face with excessive volume, often after repeated injections.

How can an excessive result be avoided? With moderate quantities and a doctor attentive to proportions.

Choosing

Do all doctors practise MD Codes? No, only those trained in it or using an equivalent approach.

How can I check their training? By asking the doctor and checking their listing in the official register.

Should I see photos of results? Yes, of people with a similar profile.

Is there a charge for the consultation? It depends on the practice.

Can I ask for a second opinion? Yes.

Budget

Does the price depend on the number of syringes? Yes, mainly.

Does a global approach cost more? Often, but it can avoid unnecessary injections.

Is maintenance cheaper? Generally yes, with less product.

Can the treatment be spread out? Yes, over several sessions.

Other questions

Can I have MD Codes while pregnant? No.

Can I have it in summer? Yes, avoiding intense heat on the same day.

Do the results look the same in photos? They often look better at three-quarter view, where the support is visible.

Can a single area be treated? Yes, if the analysis shows it is enough.

Does the method work on dark skin? Yes, adapted to the characteristics of each face.

Is there a minimum age? Cosmetic injections are reserved for adults.

Is there a maximum age? No, but the goals are adapted to age.

Do MD Codes change your expression? They aim to soften negative impressions while preserving expression.

Can I be treated ahead of a wedding? Yes, ideally two to three months before.

Is a follow-up appointment needed? Yes, two to four weeks afterwards.

Is the result guaranteed? No, it depends on each face and on the doctor.

Can I go back to my previous face? Yes, the product is absorbed or can be dissolved.

How does it differ from a liquid lift? The term often refers to a lifting approach using injections, similar in spirit.

Are the temples a risk area? They contain blood vessels and require precise technique.

Are dark circles always treated? Only if they are hollow and the skin allows it.

Can the forehead be treated? Brow support and sometimes the forehead can be treated, often with toxin.

Can marionette lines be treated? Yes, often after supporting the facial contour and chin.

Can a double chin be treated? A projected chin can reduce it; the fat calls for other treatments.

Can hollow cheeks be filled? Yes, with appropriate points.

How long does it take to see the effect on the cheekbones? Immediate, with a final result within a few weeks.

Is the result visible in profile? Yes, particularly for the chin and jaw.

Can a depressed scar be treated? Sometimes, with a targeted injection.

Is the method suitable after weight loss? Yes, to restore lost volume.

Are MD Codes suitable for facial feminisation? They can contribute, with adapted points.

Prices

How much does a treatment cost in Switzerland? It depends on the number of syringes; our tables position each city relative to Geneva.

Is it reimbursed? No, it is a cosmetic treatment.

Describe the impression you would like to change and your canton: a doctor trained in facial harmonisation will be suggested to you free of charge.