Age- and Sex-Related Variability of the Facial Artery: A CTA-Based Morphometric Study Correlated with Facial Anatomical Landmarks

Background The facial artery's variability in course and depth makes it essential to understand its morphology, particularly by age and sex, for safe non-surgical aesthetic procedures. Objective This study analyzes the three-dimensional anatomy of the facial artery in a Latin population using computed tomography angiography (CTA) to assess morphological variations according to age, sex, and anatomical landmarks. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Radiology and Imaging Department. CTA scans from 201 patients over 18 with clear visualization of the facial artery were analyzed. Using RadiAnt Dicom Viewer software, measurements included the artery’s diameter at the mandibular border, distance from the oral commissure and mandibular angle, and depth at specific anatomical points. Results The mean patient age was 58, with equal sex distribution. Type 3 facial artery, extending to the lateral nasal branch, was observed in 67.2% of cases. Males had larger artery diameters and greater distances from the mandibular angle, masseteric border of the zygomatic bone and oral commissure. The facial artery becomes progressively more superficial along its ascending midfacial course. With increasing age, the depth of the facial artery at the inferior border of the mandible and its distances to the nasolabial sulcus and oral commissure decrease. Conclusions Significant anatomical variations in the facial artery by sex and age highlight the need for individualized approaches in aesthetic procedures to enhance safety and effectiveness. This study adds critical data on Latin populations, which is lacking in existing literature, guiding practitioners toward safer, more tailored aesthetic practices.