# Three-dimensional imaging of the facial arteries: an overview of ocular vascular anatomy

## TL;DR

This study uses 3D imaging to visualize facial vascular anatomy, aiming to improve the safety of cosmetic injections.

## Contribution

A novel 3D visualization technique for facial vascular anatomy, particularly around the eyes, is introduced.

## Key findings

- Facial soft tissues and blood vessels were successfully visualized simultaneously using micro-CT.
- The study reveals detailed vascular anastomoses in the periocular region.
- The method provides a high-resolution dataset to guide safer filler injections.

## Abstract

In recent years, the use of facial soft tissue fillers via cosmetic injections has steadily increased, along with the incidence of adverse events caused by injection vascular occlusion. We aimed to three-dimensionally visualize the anastomosis between facial soft tissue and the vascular system to enhance the safety and effectiveness of facial injections. A cadaver model was used to visualize facial anatomy. A red gelatin–lead oxide contrast agent was perfused to visualize the blood vessels, while 3.75% iodine-potassium iodide was used to stain the soft tissues. Micro-computed tomography scanning was then performed to capture detailed imaging results.

We successfully visualized both facial soft tissues and blood vessels simultaneously, including the two-dimensional distribution of vascular tissues and the three-dimensional hierarchical structure of the soft tissue. This allowed accurate assessment of the vascular flow and interconnections in the facial region.

This study provides a detailed three-dimensional representation of the facial vascular anatomy, particularly in the periocular area. By clarifying facial vascular anastomoses, this technique offers a valuable reference for promoting safer and more effective filler injections and reducing the risk of injection-related complications. Providing an interactive, high-resolution vascular dataset of a specific developmental stage. Promoting safe and effective injection of fillers provides a more reliable reference for reducing complications caused by injections.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40902-025-00492-7.