Injection protocols : mapping facial areas

Mastering zonal anatomy is a non-negotiable prerequisite for natural, lasting results. This guide summarises HA injection protocols by area, as validated by European injection schools and 2020-2025 peer-reviewed literature.

Zone 1 : cheeks

Depth supraperiosteal, 0.8-1.2 mL per side, deep bolus + retrograde linear threading.

Zone 2 : nasolabial folds

Mid-deep dermis, 25G cannula, retrograde linear, aspirate before each pass.

Zone 3 : lips

Submucosal, low-G' cohesive fillers (Volbella, Kysse, Kiss).

Zone 4 : tear-trough

Strictly supraperiosteal, low-hydrophilicity filler, cannula 25G.

Zone 5 : jawline

Subperiosteal at chin, deep subcutaneous along ramus — high-G' fillers.

Injection safety : non-negotiable rules

1. Always aspirate before each pass.
2. Prefer cannula in vascular-risk zones.
3. Keep ≥ 3000 IU of hyaluronidase on site.
4. Know vascular occlusion reversal protocol.
5. Document every injection in the patient record.