Superficial part of parotid gland

The superficial part of parotid gland (a.k.a. the superficial lobe of parotid gland) is the larger portion of the gland located lateral or superficial to the facial nerve and its branches. It lies between the skin (on its outside) and the ramus of the mandible (on its inside) and forms most of the externally visible and palpable part of the parotid gland.

The superficial lobe extends from the zygomatic arch superiorly to the angle of the mandible inferiorly.

• Its superficial surface is related to the skin, superficial fascia, parotid fascia, and great auricular nerve, while

• its deep surface is related to the facial nerve, retromandibular vein, and external carotid artery.

Clinically, most parotid swellings and tumours arise in the superficial lobe and present as a swelling in front of and below the ear.