Facial Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The facial artery is an artery of the head and neck region. It is the fourth main branch of the external carotid artery. It contributes to the blood supply of structures in the neck and superficial face. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The facial artery arises from the external carotid artery within the carotid triangle of the neck. It travels superiorly and obliquely, underneath the digastric and stylohyoid muscles, and closely associated with the posterior surface of the submandibular gland (it can pass through the gland itself in some individuals). It gives rise to several branches in the neck – ascending palatine, tonsillar, submental, and glandular. The facial artery then curves upwards, passing over the body of the mandible and along the inferior border of the masseter, deep to the platysma muscle. It then takes a tortuous course towards the angle of the mouth, supplying superior and inferior labial branches to the lips. It terminates by ascending along the side of the nose in the nasolabial fold, as the angular artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Anatomical course of the facial artery. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas The carotid bifurcation and proximal branches of the external carotid artery. Note how the hypoglossal nerve crosses anteriorly over the external carotid artery. The carotid bifurcation and proximal branches of the external carotid artery. Note how the hypoglossal nerve crosses anteriorly over the external carotid artery. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Supply The facial artery supplies branches to numerous structures in the head and neck: Neck Ascending palatine – supplies the soft palate and palatine tonsils. Tonsillar – supplies the palatine tonsils. Submental – supplies the floor of the mouth and sublingual gland. Glandular – supplies the submandibular gland. Face: Superior and inferior labial artery – supply the upper and lower lips. Lateral nasal artery – supplies the external nose. Angular artery – supplies the external nose, lower eyelid, orbicularis oculi and lacrimal sac. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The facial artery contributes to the blood supply of the submandibular and sublingual glands. Frequent questions What is the facial artery? The facial artery is a key vessel in the head and neck that branches from the external carotid artery. It primarily supplies blood to structures in the neck and superficial face. What are the main branches of the facial artery? The facial artery gives rise to several important branches, including the ascending palatine, tonsillar, submental, and glandular arteries. These branches provide blood supply to the soft palate, palatine tonsils, floor of the mouth, and submandibular gland. How does the facial artery travel through the neck? The facial artery originates from the external carotid artery and travels superiorly and obliquely, positioned beneath the digastric and stylohyoid muscles. It closely follows the posterior surface of the submandibular gland, sometimes passing through it. What areas does the facial artery supply in the face? In the face, the facial artery supplies the upper and lower lips through its superior and inferior labial branches, as well as the external nose via the lateral nasal and angular arteries. It also supplies the lower eyelid and the orbicularis oculi muscle. Where does the facial artery terminate? The facial artery terminates by ascending along the side of the nose within the nasolabial fold, where it becomes the angular artery. This final segment continues to supply blood to the external nose and surrounding structures. Rate This Article