Zygomaticofacial artery: the malar branch of the face
Quick facts
- Definition
- Small artery that passes through the zygomatic bone and reaches the skin of the upper cheek.
- Origin
- Branch of the lacrimal artery, of the ophthalmic system.
- Accompanies
- The zygomaticofacial nerve.
- Anastomoses
- With the transverse facial artery and other malar branches.
- In facial harmonization
- Another example of a bridge between the orbit and the malar region.
The zygomaticofacial artery is a small branch of the lacrimal artery. It crosses the zygomatic bone through a small canal and emerges in the skin of the upper cheek, accompanied by the zygomaticofacial nerve.
Why is such a small artery worth remembering?
The caliber is small, but the position is revealing: it arises in the ophthalmic system and reaches the face. This means the upper cheek also has a communication with the circulation of the orbit, through branches that join the transverse facial artery and other malar vessels.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Passage | Canal in the zygomatic bone |
| Territory | Skin of the upper cheek, near the zygomatic arch |
| Caliber | Small and variable |
| Variation | May be absent or doubled |
What does this change in planning?
Nothing extraordinary: it only means that the cheekbone region is not a territory "without relevant vessels". Volume is usually placed in planes and amounts defined by the professional, with attention to anatomical variations and to the zygomatic arch, which serves as a bony reference.
What should be explained to the patient?
That the face has many small vessels, that complications are rare, and that the aim of planning is to choose the area and the amount safely. Avoid promising a contouring result.
Also called: zygomaticofacial branch of the lacrimal artery.
Frequently asked questions
Is the malar region high vascular risk?
It carries less risk than the glabella or nose, but is not exempt. Small-caliber vessels like this one also communicate with larger networks, and care with anatomy and technique still applies.