Facial Vein - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The facial vein is a major vein of the head and neck region. It drains venous blood from the superficial structures of the face into the internal jugular vein. 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 vein is the direct continuation of the angular vein at the inferomedial angle of the orbit (just lateral to the nose). The angular vein itself is formed by the union of the supratrochlear and supraorbital veins. From its origin, the facial vein runs inferolaterally and posteriorly to the facial artery. It descends across the face, passing over the surface of the emasseter muscle to the inferior border of the mandible, where it passes superficial to the submandibular gland. The vein then continues downward to drain into the internal jugular vein. From its origin, the facial vein runs inferolaterally and posteriorly to the facial artery. It descends across the face, passing over the surface of the masseter muscle to reach the inferior border of the mandible. Here, it passes superficial to the submandibular gland before continuing downward to drain into the internal jugular vein. Along its course, the facial vein receives several tributaries: Deep facial vein – which connects with the pterygoid venous plexus Transverse facial vein – draining into the superficial temporal vein Superficial tributaries – from the labial, infraorbital, supraorbital, mandibular, nasal, and cheek regions Through the angular vein, the facial vein also communicates with the superior ophthalmic vein – providing a potential route for the spread of infection into the cavernous sinus. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Course and tribuatries of the facial vein. The deep facial vein is not visible in this illustration Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Distal course of the facial artery and vein in the mid-face. Distal course of the facial artery and vein in the mid-face. 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 Drainage The major tributaries of the facial vein drain the following structures: Angular vein – drains the forehead and root of the nose Deep facial vein – drains the pterygoid venous plexus of the infratemporal fossa Transverse facial vein – drains the lateral aspect of the face and communicates with the superficial temporal vein Superior and inferior labial veins – drain the upper and lower lips Nasal veins – drain the external nose Infraorbital and supraorbital veins – drain the eyelids and orbit Mandibular and buccal tributaries – drain the cheek and mandible region Frequent questions What is the function of the facial vein? The facial vein primarily functions to drain venous blood from the superficial structures of the face into the internal jugular vein. This drainage is essential for maintaining proper venous return from the facial region. Where does the facial vein originate? The facial vein originates as the direct continuation of the angular vein, located at the inferomedial angle of the orbit. The angular vein itself is formed by the union of the supratrochlear and supraorbital veins. What structures does the facial vein drain? The facial vein drains several facial structures, including the forehead, nose, lips, and regions around the cheeks and mandible. Major tributaries include the angular vein, deep facial vein, and nasal veins. How does the facial vein communicate with the cavernous sinus? The facial vein communicates with the cavernous sinus through the angular vein, which connects it to the superior ophthalmic vein. This connection poses a potential risk for the spread of infections from the face to the cavernous sinus. What tributaries contribute to the facial vein? Tributaries of the facial vein include the deep facial vein, transverse facial vein, and various superficial veins from the labial, infraorbital, and nasal regions. These tributaries enhance the facial vein's role in draining multiple facial structures. Rate This Article