Topographic relationship between the muscle bands of the zygomaticus major muscle and the facial artery

Abstract

The aim of this study was to clarify the spatial relationship between the facial artery and the insertion of the zygomaticus major muscle in the perioral region. In 30 of 70 dissections (42.9%), the facial artery passed through the separate muscle bands of the zygomaticus major muscle. The mean diameter of the facial artery passing through the zygomaticus major muscle in this region was 1.74 mm (range 0.82–2.86 mm). The relationship between the facial artery and the insertion of the zygomaticus major muscle in the perioral region described in this study is expected to provide critical information for surgical planning and procedures around the perioral region.