Surgical consideration of the anatomic origin of the risorius in relation to facial planes

Abstract

Background: Confusion exists as to the plane of the risorius with respect to the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), the parotid fascia, and the masseteric fascia, which generally are considered origins of the risorius. Objectives: The authors attempted to clarify the origin of the risorius by topographic examination and dissection, which would provide valuable anatomic information for flap dissection in facelift surgery. Methods: Detailed dissection was performed in the perioral region of 46 cadaveric specimens to discern the origin of the risorius in relation to the fascial layer. The anatomic aspects of the muscular arrangement and origin of the risorius were classified according to the location of attachment. Results: The risorius originated solely from the fascial layer superficial to the SMAS in 27 specimens (58.7%; type A). It originated solely from the masseter tendon in 3 specimens (6.5%; type B) and from the fascial layers, both superficial and deep to the SMAS, in 16 specimens (34.8%; type C). Conclusions: The patterns of risorius origination identified in this study represent important anatomic reference information for flap dissection in facelift surgery.