Arteries of face and scalp (Anterior view: deep) (English)

The ophthalmic artery arises within the skull and extends anteriorly to enter the orbit with the optic nerve via the optic foramen. It continues along the medial wall of the orbit where it gives off several branches. Branches of the ophthalmic artery which supply deep structures of the face include the supraorbital, supratrochlear and dorsal nasal arteries. The supraorbital and supratrochlear arteries extend superiorly to supply the forehead and scalp while the dorsal nasal artery extends inferomedially to anastomose with the angular artery (terminal branch of facial artery). The buccal artery arises from the 2nd part of the maxillary artery, while the infraorbital artery originates from the 3rd part of the maxillary artery within the pterygopalatine fossa. The buccal artery passes forwards to reach and supply the buccinator muscle and overlying skin. The infraorbital artery ascends to the orbit of the eye via the inferior orbital fissure and emerges onto the face through the infraorbital foramen. It supplies the skin of the inferior eyelid, cheek and nose as well as the maxillary teeth via its terminal branches.