Superior Auricular Muscle, Lateral View

Description

Arising from the epicranial aponeurosis over the temporal region, the superior auricular muscle (auricularis superior) fans inferiorly to insert on the superior aspect of the auricular cartilage. In lateral view, its thin belly lies superficial to the temporal fascia and sits superior to the auricle, with the root of the helix and superior crus positioned immediately inferior to the muscle’s insertion. Anteriorly, the muscle approaches the preauricular skin over the temporomandibular region, while posteriorly it blends toward the postauricular scalp. Functionally, auricularis superior is a vestigial extrinsic ear muscle, but it remains a practical landmark when discussing the superficial muscular aponeurotic system of the lateral scalp and the course of the temporal branch of the facial nerve as it crosses the zygomatic arch toward the frontalis. Small structures, real consequences. During facelift (rhytidectomy) dissection, preauricular flap elevation, or repair around the superior helix, appreciating the tissue planes around this muscle helps reduce traction or transection risk to the temporal branch and preserves normal auricular position. It also supports teaching of why voluntary ear “wiggling” persists in some individuals and how extrinsic auricular muscles relate to otoplasty and auricular laceration repair. Suitable for gross anatomy and head and neck courses when covering extrinsic auricular muscles and scalp layers, and for surgical education materials on preauricular approaches, SMAS dissection, and regional facial nerve anatomy. It also fits atlases and patient-facing handouts that need a clear lateral map of the superior auricular region without deeper neurovascular clutter. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.