Facial lymph nodes

Recommended video: Introduction to the lymphatic system [14:10]

Overview of the anatomy, function and main structures of the lymphatic system.

The facial lymph nodes are a variably present group of subcutaneous lymph nodes which form an intercalated chain along the facial vein.

They may be composed of up to four groups of nodes: 

• nasolabial lymph nodes, located in a groove between the ala (wing) of the nose and lip known as the nasolabial sulcus; it receives lymph drained from the nose and medial half of the eyelid
• a malar (a.k.a. zygomatic) lymph node, located above the zygomatic bone, close to the lateral angle of the eye; it drains lymph from the eyelids
• bucinator lymph nodes are located on the cheeks, between the angle of the mouth and the ear lobe
• mandibular lymph nodes may be located along the anterior border of, or superficial to, themasseter muscle, overlying the mandible; it and the buccinator lymph nodes may receive lymph drained from all over the facial region. 

Efferent vessels of the facial lymph nodes largely drain to the submandibular and/or preauricular lymph nodes.