Parotid Gland

Description

Seen in lateral profile, the parotid gland occupies the preauricular space overlying the posterior ramus of the mandible, extending superiorly toward the zygomatic arch and posteriorly toward the mastoid process of the temporal bone. Its inferior pole approaches the angle of the mandible, where it lies superficial to the masseter and adjacent to the posterior belly of the digastric region. From its anterior border, the parotid (Stensen) duct courses horizontally across the masseter before turning medially to pierce the buccinator and enter the oral vestibule opposite the maxillary second molar. Surrounding bony landmarks of the cheek and jaw are shown in context, including the mandible, maxilla with dentition, and the temporal bone. This lateral skull-and-neck view matters because it matches the operative and injection anatomy clinicians use around the parotid bed. The facial nerve divides within the gland into its temporofacial and cervicofacial divisions, so parotidectomy planning hinges on understanding the gland’s relationship to the mandibular ramus, mastoid tip, and the expected trajectory of Stensen’s duct. Ductal obstruction, sialadenitis, and parotid neoplasms also present as swelling at the angle of the jaw, a region that can be confused with masseter hypertrophy or mandibular pathology. A key landmark. Use this artwork in head and neck anatomy teaching, dental and maxillofacial courses, and surgical atlases covering parotidectomy, facelift incision planning, and facial nerve preservation. It also suits patient-facing education for parotid swelling workups and sialolithiasis management in ENT or oral surgery clinics. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.