LAUSR

BACKGROUND Demand for lip filler injection continues to increase. Despite the current literature's acknowledgement of the role both venous and arterial vasculature play in minor and major side effects, research addressing the venous vasculature of the lower one-third of the face is scarce. METHODS A photographic analysis of the venous vasculature of 26 participants was performed using a vein transilluminator to display the venous flow around the perioral region. The data was analyzed for commonalities among participants then compared to common lip filler injection techniques and locations. RESULTS Venous tributaries were identified in all patients, with slight variation in pattern, superior to the upper vermillion border between the nasolabial fold and philtral column on each side of the mouth. Venous tributaries were noted about 1 cm-1.5 cm lateral to the oral commissures extending inferiorly to the chin and along the labiomental crease. Four areas of venous pooling were deemed significant: a small area ~2 mm superior to cupid's bow, along the middle tubercle of the upper lip, along the wet-dry line of the lower lip and centrally along the vermillion border between the lower lip tubercles. CONCLUSIONS Perioral venous mapping provides a guide for injectors performing lip enhancement procedures in identifying areas at risk for injury due to venous pooling. Avoiding these anatomically vulnerable regions can minimize the potential for inflammation and ecchymosis associated with intravenous injection and prevent dissatisfactory aesthetic results due to lumps, excessive bruising, swelling or asymmetry.