The Supratrochlear Artery Revisited: An Anatomic Review in Favor of Modern Cosmetic Applications in the Area

Abstract

The supratrochlear artery represents a terminal branch of the ophthalmic artery. Cosmetic interventions may traumatize it, resulting in a circulation in the lesion in glabellar region and in the medial aspect of the forehead. This review article aims to synopsise the existing knowledge of the anatomy of the supratrochlear artery in close correlation with minimally invasive cosmetic procedures in the facial area such as soft-tissue filler injections. Their possible adverse effects and their safe application based on the topographic anatomy were included. A literature review was performed in PubMed/Medline online medical database. The superficial course of the supratrochlear artery, as well as the rich, variable anastomotic network that it forms with the supraorbital, angular and dorsal nasal artery raise clinical questions in the case of soft-tissue filler injections in the nasoglabellar and central forehead area. Accidental cannulation of the supratrochlear artery and ultimately, the risk of embolization of the central retinal artery in a retrograde fashion might lead to injury with questionable cosmetic results. Although the risk of complications from the use of soft tissue fillers is considered rare, once happen, the results could be devastating for the quality of life. Thus, the comprehension of the anatomy of the supratrochlear artery is paramount for the health practitioners.