Where should the incision for the facial artery be made?

The incision for accessing the facial artery should be made just anterior to the angle of the mandible. This location is essential because it allows for a clear pathway to the facial artery, which runs along the mandible and provides sufficient access for both the identification and cannulation of the vessel. The angle of the mandible offers a landmark that helps embalmers efficiently locate the artery while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

In contrast, the midline of the neck may not provide the necessary proximity to the facial artery, which is located more laterally. The inferior border of the orbit, while relevant for other arteries of the face, is not appropriate for the facial artery since it lies further down and anterior along the jawline. The subclavian region is not relevant here, as it pertains to a different set of vascular structures, primarily involving the upper extremities and thoracic area, rather than the facial arteries that supply the face.