Fasciae of head

Fasciae capitis

  • Synonym: Fascia of head
  • Related terms: Fascia of head

Definition

Muhammad A. Javaid

The fascia of head consists of interconnected fibrous layers derived from the deep cervical fascia and modified by the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS).

  • Parotid Fascia: Encloses the parotid gland, continuous with the masseteric fascia anteriorly, temporal fascia superiorly, and cervical fascia inferiorly.

  • Masseteric Fascia: Covers the masseter muscle, blending with the parotid fascia posteriorly and the buccal fascia anteriorly.

  • Temporal Fascia: Covers the temporalis muscle and is continuous inferiorly with the parotid and masseteric fasciae.

Together, these fasciae form a continuous fascial system that supports facial muscles, protects neurovascular structures, and provides surgical planes for head and neck procedures.

References

  • Gray, H. (2016) Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edn. Edited by S. Standring. New York: Elsevier. Chapter 30: Face and Scalp, pp. 477.

  • Whitney ZB, Jain M, Zito PM. Anatomy, Skin, Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) Fascia. [Updated 2024 Jan 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519014/

  • Hînganu D, Stan CI, Ciupilan C, Hînganu MV. Anatomical considerations on the masseteric fascia and superficial muscular aponeurotic system. Rom J Morphol Embryol. 2018;59(2):513-516. PMID: 30173256.