New Insight into Glabellar Arteries: A Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography and Dissection Study

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Vascular Surgery
• Cosmetic Procedures

Background:

• Vascular complications are a significant risk associated with glabellar filler injections.
• Lack of precise vascular topography knowledge increases the risk of severe complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the arterial systems of the glabella.
• To provide considerations for safer glabellar filler injections.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans of 90 cadaveric heads after contrast and filler injection.
• Dissection of 15 additional cadaveric heads.

Main Results:

• Identified central (CAs), paracentral (PCAs), and reverse dorsal nasal arteries (rDNAs).
• Categorized glabellar arterial supply into two main patterns based on the presence of these arteries between bilateral supratrochlear arteries (STAs).
• Type 2 (75.6%) showed more complex arterial patterns involving CAs, PCAs, and rDNAs compared to Type 1 (24.4%).

Conclusions:

• This study reveals novel arterial systems in the glabella.
• Findings offer critical insights for anatomical awareness during glabellar filler procedures.