Facial Harmonization: What It Is, Risks, Results, and When to Do It

Facial Harmonization

Hello, I’m Dr. Guilherme Szerrman, and today I’m going to talk about the facial harmonization procedure.
In this article, we’ll also cover MD Codes, a dermal filler technique for the malar region and upper third of the face, considered one of the best options for those looking to harmonize facial contours.

Não perca a dica do Dr. Szerman ao final do artigo!

Everything I’ll explain here is technical information. Our goal is simply to clarify how fillers can help with facial rejuvenation.

What Is Facial Harmonization?

Facial harmonization is a set of minimally invasive aesthetic procedures aimed at balancing facial features and enhancing natural beauty. The most common techniques include hyaluronic acid fillers, botulinum toxin application, and collagen biostimulators—always personalized to each patient’s unique characteristics.

In the past, fillers were mostly limited to the lower third of the face. However, modern medicine—through extensive CT and MRI studies—has shown that a significant part of facial aging is due to the loss of bone, muscle, and fat, especially in the upper third of the face.

Although this loss happens throughout the face, it’s more pronounced in this upper area. As a result, the skin sags, which is one of the main causes of grooves and depressions in the upper face.

MD Codes is a mapping technique developed by world-renowned Brazilian plastic surgeon Mauricio de Maio. He identified specific injection points, making filler application more organized and precise.

How Facial Harmonization Works

The procedure aims to restore balance to facial contours by correcting volume loss that naturally occurs over time.

Volume loss in the upper third of the face is particularly significant. Just look at a baby or child—you’ll notice their well-defined facial contours, which are universally associated with beauty and youth.

When there are few shadows and smooth contours, the face appears youthful. As we age, curves, hollows, and shadows form, giving an aged appearance.

Facial harmonization works by restoring lost volume, especially in the upper third of the face. Some filler is also applied to the lateral and medial cheek areas to provide support and improve overall facial proportions.

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Temos as melhores avaliações no Google

- L. M. -

depoimento livia ky7y3m
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This procedure is quick, painless, and affordable, with little or no discomfort. Most importantly, it results in a very natural look while still preserving facial expressions. My wife had both laser and filler treatments, which she loved. We highly recommend it.

-R. M. -

I received treatments at this clinic to reduce the appearance of my nasolabial folds, also known as “smile lines.” The results were amazing, leaving my skin looking noticeably improved.

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- H. T. -
depoimento Hermon

The experience was fantastic! The care provided by Dr. Guilherme and Dr. Ronaldo reinforced the quality of the service.

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What to Expect from Facial Harmonization

Restoring volume not only improves contour but also smooths the eyelid-cheek junction. Patients are often very pleased with the results.

The procedure can also soften the nasolabial folds and other areas related to facial support. However, it’s important that fillers are applied harmoniously—artificial-looking results are not desirable.

In most cases, we distribute filler between the upper and lower thirds of the face for balance, also addressing areas like the “marionette lines” for a more youthful contour.

I always say that filler is a journey—it should be done gradually to achieve the best possible, most natural result.

Benefits of Facial Harmonization with MD Codes

Facial harmonization procedure.
Facial harmonization procedure.

MD Codes fillers offer several benefits. They can enhance chin contour, lengthen the chin if needed, and improve facial proportions.

For women, lateral facial filler application can help create a more triangular facial shape, a classic standard of feminine beauty. For men, we aim for a slightly squarer face, enhancing the chin and jawline if desired.

All procedures are tailored after a consultation. At our clinic, all fillers used are made from hyaluronic acid, the safest and most widely used substance in dermatology.

Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in joints, cartilage, and bones. In the past, it was extracted from animals, such as rooster combs. Today, it is synthesized in laboratories, purified, and made with high safety standards.

Rejection cases are extremely rare, and it can be safely used on almost all patients when applied in the correct amounts.

How Long Do the Results Last?

We use denser hyaluronic acid fillers for support, which typically last up to two years according to the manufacturer. Some patients even report maintaining results for four or five years.

This is because deep-layer fillers stimulate the body’s own hyaluronic acid production, leading to long-lasting structural support—similar to laying the foundation of a building.

Fillers in areas like nasolabial folds and marionette lines are lighter and usually last one to one and a half years, although results often persist longer.

How Does the Skin Look After Treatment?

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Facial fillers are generally very safe when performed with approved substances by trained professionals. Minor bruising can occur but typically resolves in a few days.

Patients are advised to avoid heat and strenuous exercise for a few days post-procedure. Results are visible immediately—about 80–90%—with further improvement over one to two months as the filler hydrates and settles.

We recommend drinking plenty of water during this time, as hyaluronic acid is hydrophilic and draws moisture to the treated areas, enhancing the effect.

We prioritize patient comfort, using fillers that already contain anesthetic to minimize discomfort.

Our clinic also specializes in advanced laser treatments. We often recommend combining fillers with fractional CO2 laser for enhanced rejuvenation, particularly in the lower third of the face.

Contact:

Clínica de Pele has specialized in dermatological treatments in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969. Dr. Szerman has more than 20 years of experience and teaches other physicians.

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Dica do Dr. Szerman

“Desde 1969, acreditamos que os melhores resultados nascem da união entre a ética médica, tecnologias de última geração e produtos de alta qualidade. Em tempos de forte banalização da estética, reforçamos nosso compromisso inegociável com a sua segurança e excelência científica.

Por isso, alertamos para o cuidado extremo ao escolher quem cuidará da sua pele: quando o assunto é saúde, o ‘barato’ pode sair muito caro e colocar a sua pele em risco. Infelizmente, temos recebido em nosso consultório um número crescente de pacientes com reações indesejadas e resultados insatisfatórios vindos de outros locais.

Não se arrisque. Sempre procure um médico experiente. Aqui, tratamos cada paciente como único, entregando o nosso melhor com dedicação, carinho e responsabilidade. Um abraço, conte conosco.” Dr. Szerman

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