From the Research
The temporal fat pad contains primarily adipose tissue, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and a small amount of fibrous connective tissue, and is innervated by branches of the trigeminal nerve, specifically the buccal branch of the mandibular division, as described in the study by 1. The temporal fat pad, also known as the superficial temporal fat pad, is a critical structure in the temporal region, extending into the cheek area.
- It is composed of specialized connective tissue, primarily adipose tissue, which is made up of fat cells (adipocytes) 1.
- The fat pad also contains blood vessels, including branching perforators from the deep and middle temporal arteries, which supply blood to the fat pad 1, 2.
- Lymphatic vessels run through the fat pad, helping with fluid drainage from the region 1.
- The pad is innervated by branches of the trigeminal nerve, specifically the buccal branch of the mandibular division, and the zygomaticotemporal nerve, which travels through the superficial temporal fat pad 3, 1.
- Additionally, the temporal fat pad contains a small amount of fibrous connective tissue that forms a thin capsule around the fat and provides structural support 1.
- The temporal fat pad serves important functions, including cushioning the masticatory muscles during chewing, contributing to facial contour, and providing a gliding surface for muscle movement 1.
- In infants, the temporal fat pad is particularly prominent and aids in suckling, while in adults, it naturally diminishes with age, contributing to the hollowing of the cheeks seen in older adults 1.
- The study by 4 also highlights the importance of the temporal fat pad in predicting clinical outcomes in patients with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis, demonstrating that increased temporal fat pad volume is associated with better clinical outcomes.