Submental vein: drainage of the chin area
Quick facts
- Definition
- Vein that drains the submental region and accompanies the submental artery.
- Location
- Under the chin, over the mylohyoid muscle, next to the anterior belly of the digastric.
- Drainage
- Empties into the facial vein.
- Neighbors
- Submental artery, submental fat and the submandibular gland.
- Relevance in HOF
- Double chin and chin area, where bruising and swelling are possible.
The submental vein is a vein of the area under the chin that accompanies the artery of the same name. It drains the tissues of the submental area, including skin, fat and nearby muscles, and empties into the facial vein. It is part of the venous network that, together with the arteries, defines the blood supply of the chin and upper neck.
Where is it?
The vein runs over the mylohyoid muscle, in the floor of the mouth, next to the anterior belly of the digastric muscle. The submental artery, a branch of the facial artery, also runs there. The area is close to the submandibular gland and the submental lymph nodes. The exact relationship between vein, artery and muscles varies from person to person, as does the caliber of the vessels.
| Structure | Relationship to the submental vein |
|---|---|
| Submental artery | Accompanies the vein and supplies the area |
| Facial vein | Receives the drainage of the submental vein |
| Digastric muscle | Anatomical landmark for position |
| Submental fat | Compartment treated in double chin approaches |
Why does it matter in HOF?
The chin and the submental region are the target of common concerns, such as a poorly projected chin and a double chin. Procedures in this area, from chin filler to approaches to submental fat, take place near vessels, and bruising and swelling are possible complications. The area demands knowledge of anatomy, careful assessment and post-procedure care.
In approaches that involve fat reduction, swelling after the procedure can be more pronounced, and it is important to advise the patient about it. Any management is up to the qualified professional, according to the rules of their professional council.
What to watch for after the procedure
- Progressive or asymmetric swelling under the chin.
- Pain out of proportion to what is expected.
- Skin color change that does not improve.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing, which is an emergency sign.
How to explain it to the patient
"Small vessels run under the chin. A bruise or some swelling in the first few days is expected in some cases. If it gets much worse or hurts too much, call me."
In Harmy
The Chin point of the app's marking covers this area. The projection is illustrative and does not represent vessels or simulate bruising, and assessment of the submental region remains the professional's responsibility.
Also called: vein of the submental space.
Frequently asked questions
Is the submental vein visible through the skin?
Generally not. It is deep and small. What can be seen in the submental region are indirect signs, such as bruising, swelling or, in some people, superficial neck veins.