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Zygomaticofacial Nerve

nervus zygomaticofacialis

The zygomaticofacial nerve is a branch of the zygomatic nerve (from V2 via the pterygopalatine fossa) that exits the zygoma through the zygomaticofacial foramen on the anterior surface of the malar eminence to supply the skin over the cheek prominence (malar region). It anastomoses with branches of the facial nerve (zygomaticus branch) and the infraorbital nerve.

Region: Head & Skull

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The zygomaticofacial nerve exits the zygoma through a small foramen on the anterior malar surface that must be identified during zygoma fracture repair to avoid nerve injury. In malar augmentation with implants or filler, the zygomaticofacial foramen area is a danger zone for nerve injury producing cheek numbness. During lateral orbital wall decompression and zygomatic osteotomy for craniofacial surgery, the zygomaticofacial foramen is the landmark for identifying the safe zygoma drilling zone anterior to it.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Zygomaticofacial Nerve Numbness in Zygoma Fracture Repair

Zygoma fracture repair through a lateral brow or lower eyelid approach may stretch or divide the zygomaticofacial nerve at the malar foramen, producing temporary or permanent malar skin numbness; it is functionally well-tolerated and typically resolves as the nerve regenerates over 3-6 months.