Surgical Anatomy for Asian facial Contouring: A Personal Perspective

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Anatomy
• Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

• Facial contouring surgery, including reduction malarplasty, mandibular contouring, and masseter muscle resection, requires precise anatomical knowledge.
• Variations in nerve and vessel locations can impact surgical outcomes and complication rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a detailed anatomical perspective on key structures relevant to reduction malarplasty, mandibular contouring, and masseter muscle resection.
• To offer precise measurements and locations of nerves and vessels to aid surgeons in planning and executing these procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of anatomical data pertaining to the zygomaticofacial nerve, zygomaticotemporal nerve, inferior alveolar nerve, facial nerve trunk, and masseteric artery.
• Detailed description of nerve pathways, branching patterns, and proximity to bony landmarks.

Main Results:

• The zygomaticofacial nerve innervates a defined rectangular area with specific dimensions and distances from the lateral canthus.
• Precise locations and measurements are provided for the zygomaticotemporal nerve, inferior alveolar nerve, and facial nerve trunk relative to facial landmarks and the mandible.
• The deep branch of the middle masseteric artery and masseteric nerve course and location within the masseter muscle are detailed.

Conclusions:

• Accurate understanding of these anatomical variations is crucial for minimizing nerve injury and optimizing aesthetic results in facial contouring procedures.
• This anatomical review serves as a valuable reference for surgeons performing complex facial aesthetic surgeries.