Anatomical Distribution of the Superior and Inferior Labial Arteries: A Cadaveric, Systematic Review, and
Gisele Laynes Milla1, Hellen Cristina Silva Dos Santos2, Maria Clara de Sousa2
1Master Program, School of Dentistry, Ingá University Center, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil.
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
|June 30, 2026
Summary
Precise knowledge of superior and inferior labial arteries is crucial for lip procedures. These arteries are most often submucosal or intramuscular, with rare subcutaneous courses, highlighting risks in all lip regions.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Vascular Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
Background:
- Accurate anatomical knowledge of the superior and inferior labial arteries is vital for safe lip surgeries and aesthetic procedures.
- Existing anatomical data is fragmented, hindering the development of consistent safety guidelines for lip interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the anatomical distribution of the superior and inferior labial arteries relative to the orbicularis oris muscle.
- To integrate findings from Brazilian cadaveric dissections with a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Main Methods:
- Cadaveric dissection of preserved Brazilian specimens using standardized landmarks.
- Classification of labial artery positions as submucosal, intramuscular, or subcutaneous.
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of existing literature following PRISMA guidelines.
Main Results:
- The superior labial artery is predominantly submucosal (33.3-53.3%) or intramuscular (40.0-46.7%).
- The inferior labial artery shows greater variability, with intramuscular positioning in median regions (73.3%) and submucosal ranging from 13.3-53.3%.
- Subcutaneous positioning is uncommon for both arteries; heterogeneity was noted due to regional and sex differences.
Conclusions:
- Superior and inferior labial arteries typically follow submucosal and intramuscular paths, with rare subcutaneous courses.
- This integrated anatomical evidence aids in enhancing the safety of lip surgeries and aesthetic procedures.
- No region of the lip, midline or paramedian, is entirely free from vascular risk.
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