Anomalous Blood Supply of the Superficial Face: A Case Report and Cadaveric Study of Facial and Transverse Facial Artery Variations

The facial and transverse facial arteries supply blood to the superficial structures of the face. Understanding these arterial variations is essential for optimizing surgical planning and outcomes, especially in invasive facial procedures. A 78-year-old male cadaveric dissection documented variations in facial and transverse facial arteries. A hypoplastic facial artery arose from the external carotid artery between the lingual and occipital arteries and terminated below the oral fissure, supplying only the lower face. The transverse facial artery, originating from the superficial temporal artery, took an atypical path, running deep to the parotid gland and following the nasolabial sulcus to supply the upper face, areas typically served by the facial artery. The variations observed in the facial and transverse facial arteries highlight the diversity in facial vascular anatomy. Preoperative identification of such anomalies can help minimize surgical risks and improve outcomes, making detailed anatomical knowledge critical for tailoring surgical approaches.