Cutaneous ligaments: what they are and where they sit
Quick facts
- Definition
- Fibrous structures that connect the skin and SMAS to bone or deep fascia.
- Function
- Hold tissues in position and create anchor points.
- Examples
- Zygomatic, mandibular, masseteric, and orbicularis retaining.
- Effect with age
- The ligaments loosen and tissues descend, forming grooves and bags.
The cutaneous, or retaining, ligaments are bands of fibrous tissue that connect the skin and deeper layers, such as the SMAS, to bone or deep fascia. They work like cords that hold tissues in position. The overview is in retaining ligaments.
What are the main ones?
| Ligament | Area | Clinical relationship |
|---|---|---|
| Zygomatic | Cheek | Boundary of the malar fat pad and the groove |
| Mandibular | Chin and mandible | Marks the boundary of the jowl |
| Masseteric | Lateral face | Anchors the tissues over the masseter |
| Orbicularis retaining | Lower orbit | Bounds the infraorbital groove |
Why do they explain aging?
With age, the ligaments loosen and the fat pads descend. Because the ligaments stay fixed at their points, tissues gather between them and form folds, bags, and grooves. This helps explain why a face can lose support unevenly. The full discussion is in facial aging by layers and in layers of the face.
Frequently asked questions
What are the cutaneous ligaments of the face?
They are bands of fibrous tissue that anchor the skin and deeper layers to bone or fascia. They hold tissues in place and help explain where grooves and bags appear.
Terms mentioned
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