Positional deformation of the parotid gland: Application to minimally invasive procedures

Abstract

Anatomical studies of the parotid gland are important for mid-and lower face filler, botulinum toxin, and thread lifting procedures. The purpose of this study was to observe the topographic anatomy of the parotid gland using cadaveric dissections.The superficial lobe of the parotid gland was studied in 30 hemisected heads. Reference lines were made on the lateral aspect of the face. A reference line (the line connecting the mandibular angle to the upper margin of the zygomatic arch, along the posterior border of the ramus) was divided into four sections (P1, P2, P3, and P4).The superior, inferior, anterior, and posterior borders of the parotid gland were measured using the reference lines and sections. Using these measurements, we categorized the superficial lobe of the parotid gland into two types: type Ia, pistol-shaped; Ib, pistol-shaped with an accessory lobe; and type II, oval-shaped. The superior border of the parotid gland started just below the inferior margin of the zygomatic arch.The parotid gland covered the posterior part of the masseter muscle near P1 and P2, but at P3 and below P3, the tail of the parotid gland was located posterior to the ramus and covered the anterior part of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The topographic anatomy of the parotid gland serves as a reliable reference for esthetic procedures in the lower face and neck region.

Cosmetic Treatment Using Botulinum Toxin in the Oral and Maxillofacial Area: A Narrative Review of Esthetic Techniques

“…The parotid gland is an inverted-pyramidal-shaped organ that lies on the posterior border of the mandible angle [ 56 , 74 ]. Due to congenital, iatrogenic, or acquired conditions, BoNT in the glands plays a role in the esthetically slimming volume of the hypertrophic glands.…”

Ultrasound‐guided thread lifting for the prevention of parotid gland and diagnosing parotid duct complications

“…There are several studies on the parotid gland's anatomical location 6,11 . A recent study showed that the border of the parotid gland varies from the inferior margin of the zygomatic arch to the anterior part of the sternocleidomastoid muscle 12 . Clinical ultrasound findings show that the parotid gland is often distributed widely.…”

“… 6 , 11 A recent study showed that the border of the parotid gland varies from the inferior margin of the zygomatic arch to the anterior part of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. 12 Clinical ultrasound findings show that the parotid gland is often distributed widely. In addition, an accessory lobe of the parotid gland is seen in many cases.…”

SMAS repositioning technique utilizing cog thread: Anatomical perspectives

“…The study of fresh cadaveric movements of facial skin and tissues concerning postural changes reveals that transitioning from a seated to a supine position not only alters the positioning of the cadaver's head but also induces overall tension in the facial skin and soft tissues 9 . The skin and connective tissues around the head and ears are drawn, causing a visible change in the shape and angle of the periorbital area and nasal tip.…”

“…The study of fresh cadaveric movements of facial skin and tissues concerning postural changes reveals that transitioning from a seated to a supine position not only alters the positioning of the cadaver's head but also induces overall tension in the facial skin and soft tissues. 9 The skin and connective tissues around the head and ears are drawn, causing a visible change in the shape and angle of the periorbital area and nasal tip. Notably, the transformation of the lower face tissues is intriguing as it demonstrates that, with postural changes, the lax skin and tissues, including those around the submental area, do not solely migrate toward the head and ears but also remain along the firm structures encompassing the chin, anterior jawline, and the angle of the mandible.…”