Deep temporal arteries: anatomy of the temple
- Artery
- Highlighted area
Quick facts
- Origin
- Pterygoid segment of the maxillary artery, usually as two branches: anterior and posterior.
- Course
- Rise through the temporal fossa between the temporalis muscle and the bone, on the deep surface of the muscle.
- Territory
- Temporalis muscle and the bone of the temporal fossa.
- Communications
- With the middle temporal artery and, through the anterior one, with branches of the lacrimal artery, from the ophthalmic.
- Relevance in facial harmonization
- They occupy the plane against the bone, one of the planes discussed in temple filler.
The deep temporal arteries are usually two arteries, anterior and posterior, that arise from the pterygoid segment of the maxillary artery and rise through the temporal fossa between the temporalis muscle and the bone. They supply the muscle and bone of the temple and communicate with the middle temporal artery. In facial harmonization (known in Brazil as HOF, orofacial harmonization), they are the deepest level of the vascular map of the temple.
Where do the deep temporal arteries run?
| Artery | Course | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Anterior deep temporal | Rises through the front part of the temporal fossa, near the lateral border of the orbit | May communicate with the lacrimal artery, a branch of the ophthalmic |
| Posterior deep temporal | Rises farther back, in the middle and posterior part of the fossa | Communicates with the middle temporal artery |
Both run on the deep surface of the temporalis muscle, very close to the periosteum. Anatomical studies describe the height, the number of branches and the distance to the bone as variable, which is why maps of the temple speak of areas of greater or lesser vascular density, not absolute safe points.
How is the temple organized into vascular levels?
| Level | Main vessels |
|---|---|
| Superficial (temporoparietal fascia) | Superficial temporal artery and branches |
| Intermediate (fat between the layers of the deep fascia) | Middle temporal artery and middle temporal vein |
| Deep (against the bone) | Anterior and posterior deep temporal arteries |
This division helps explain why choosing the plane in the temple is an anatomical decision, not only a product decision. The related fat layer is covered in temporal fat pad.
Why do they matter in facial harmonization?
- Deep plane: filling the temple against the bone is one of the approaches described. The deep temporal arteries lie exactly at this level, beneath and within the deep surface of the muscle.
- Communication with the orbit: the link of the anterior deep temporal artery with the lacrimal artery, from the ophthalmic artery, is one of the routes cited for visual complications after temple filler.
- Deep bruising: bleeding within the muscle can cause pain when chewing and swelling in the following days.
- Toxin in the temporalis: injections into the temporalis muscle, as in bruxism, also pass through the region. See botulinum toxin in bruxism.
How does it show up in the assessment?
- Degree of hollowing: with side lighting, the depression of the temple and the contour of the orbital rim are assessed.
- Temporalis muscle: palpating while the patient clenches their teeth shows the thickness of the muscle, which changes the planning.
- History: bruxism, toxin in the temporalis, surgery or trauma in the region and previous filler.
Also called: anterior and posterior deep temporal artery, arteriae temporales profundae.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the deep temporal arteries run?
In the temporal fossa, between the temporalis muscle and the bone, rising from bottom to top. The anterior one lies closer to the lateral border of the orbit and the posterior one farther back. The exact course varies between people.
Do the deep temporal arteries have a link to the eye?
The anterior one can communicate with the lacrimal artery, a branch of the ophthalmic artery, through small vessels that cross the zygomatic bone and the lateral wall of the orbit. This link is among the anatomical explanations for the visual complications described after temple filler.