Superior temporal adhesion and inferior temporal septum
- Nerve
- Highlighted area
Quick facts
- Definition
- Zones where the superficial fascia of the temple attaches firmly to the deep layers and to the bone.
- Temporal adhesion
- Attachment area above the lateral portion of the eyebrow, at the anterior tip of the temporal line.
- Superior temporal septum
- Follows the temporal line, from the adhesion backward, along the upper limit of the temporal fossa.
- Inferior temporal septum
- Band that leaves the adhesion diagonally downward and backward, toward the ear.
- Relevance in HOF
- Divides the temple into compartments and marks the area where the temporal branch of the facial nerve runs.
The temporal adhesion is a firm attachment zone between the superficial layers of the temple and the bone, located above the lateral portion of the eyebrow, at the anterior tip of the temporal line. Two bands leave it: the superior temporal septum, which follows the temporal line backward, and the inferior temporal septum, which descends diagonally toward the ear. Together, these structures are part of the retaining ligaments of the face and divide the temple into compartments with different contents.
How do the adhesions divide the temple?
| Structure | Where it is | What it delimits |
|---|---|---|
| Temporal adhesion (temporal ligament) | Above the lateral eyebrow, next to the lateral edge of the orbit | Meeting point of the two septa; helps support the tail of the eyebrow |
| Superior temporal septum | Along the temporal line, from the top of the orbit backward | Upper limit of the temporal fossa and of the temple |
| Inferior temporal septum | From the adhesion diagonally downward, toward the earlobe | Separates the upper compartment from the lower triangle of the temple |
The compartment above the inferior septum, between it and the superior septum, is usually described as relatively free of critical structures in the plane between the fasciae. The triangle below the inferior septum, between it and the zygomatic arch, by contrast, concentrates important structures: the temporal branches of the facial nerve, the sentinel vein and venous and arterial branches of the region.
Why does it matter in HOF?
- Facial nerve: the temporal branch of the facial nerve runs in the temporoparietal fascia, a continuation of the SMAS, just below the inferior temporal septum. Injury to this branch can reduce eyebrow elevation on the same side.
- Eyebrow support: the temporal adhesion anchors the lateral portion of the eyebrow. With aging, laxity of the tissues above and beside it contributes to the drooping of the eyebrow tail.
- Reading the layers: the adhesions are the point where fasciae that normally glide become fixed, which explains the resistance felt in procedures and surgeries in the region. The topic is covered in layers of the face.
How does it show up in the assessment?
- Visible temporal line: in thin people or those with volume loss, the bony ridge and the depression below it become apparent.
- Position of the eyebrow tail: compare the sides at rest and when raising the forehead.
- Function of the temporal branch: document eyebrow elevation before any procedure.
- Previous surgeries on the eyebrow or temporal lift, which alter the adhesions.
The procedure is covered in temple filler.
Also known as: temporal ligament, temporal adhesion zone, temporal ligamentous adhesion, temporal fusion line.
Frequently asked questions
What is the temporal ligament?
It is the name often used for the temporal adhesion, a firm attachment zone between the fasciae of the temple and the bone, above the lateral portion of the eyebrow. It is part of the retaining ligament system of the face and helps support the tail of the eyebrow.
Where does the temporal branch of the facial nerve run in relation to the inferior temporal septum?
The temporal branches of the facial nerve usually run just below the inferior temporal septum, almost parallel to it, within the temporoparietal fascia. That is why the septum is used as a reference for the upper limit of the nerve's risk area.