Lacrimal artery: blood supply to the lacrimal gland
Quick facts
- Definition
- Branch of the ophthalmic artery that supplies the lacrimal gland and parts of the eyelid.
- Origin
- Internal carotid system.
- Supplies
- Lacrimal gland and part of the eyelids and conjunctiva.
- Anastomoses
- With temporal branches and with the face, through the lateral region of the orbit.
- In facial harmonization
- Part of the bridges between the eye and the temporal region.
The lacrimal artery is a branch of the ophthalmic artery. It runs along the lateral part of the orbit and supplies the lacrimal gland, which produces tears, as well as part of the eyelids and the conjunctiva.
Why does its course matter in facial harmonization?
The point of interest lies in the connections. Branches of the lacrimal artery communicate with arteries of the temporal region, such as the deep temporal and the superficial temporal, and with vessels of the eyelid. These anastomoses form bridges between the eye's system and the face's.
| Structure | Relation to the lacrimal artery |
|---|---|
| Lacrimal gland | Main territory of the artery |
| Eyelids | Branches that communicate with those of the face |
| Temporal region | Anastomoses with temporal branches |
What does this mean in practice?
The lateral region of the orbit and the temple have vessels that connect to the eye's circulation. For this reason the temple is treated as a vascular risk region, even though it is a routine filler area. The risk is rare, but the consequence can be serious, such as vision loss.
How to guide the patient?
It is worth explaining, without alarmism, that the temple and the contour of the eye have delicate vessels, that the risk is low but the professional prepares for it, and that any change in vision must be reported right away. This point is part of the informed consent.
Also called: lacrimal branch of the ophthalmic.
Frequently asked questions
Does the lacrimal artery have anything to do with the temple?
Yes, indirectly. It communicates through anastomoses with branches that supply the temporal region and the eyelid, which helps explain why the temple is treated as a vascular risk region.