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Objectives: Presently, data on the vascularization of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system of the face (SMAS) are lacking. Thus, the present study aimed to provide new conclusive data about the topography, density, and relationship of the SMAS blood vessels with other components, namely, the fibrous connective tissue and muscles. Methods: The study included a control lot of 42 cases from the archive of the radiology department. In this group, nuclear magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) was performed in order to identify the main sources of vascular supply. In the second group, tissue samples were collected from the midfacial region of 45 patients from the Oro-Maxillo-Facial and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery clinics of 'St. Spiridon' County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi. These patients received surgery for excision of tumoral formations that did not involve SMAS components. These samples underwent micro-CT analysis, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, as well as immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for collagen type III, muscle tissue, and the vascular endothelium. Results: We discovered the particular way in which the SMAS components interrelate with vascularization and the regional differences between them. We have discovered a new vascular network specific to the SMAS, highlighted by both the micro-CT technique and microscopy on slides with special IHC staining. Significant differences were observed in the topographic arrangement, density, and relationships of the microscopic vasculature across midfacial regions. IHC staining provided morphological and functional information about the structure and vascularization of SMAS. Conclusions: The MRA technique could not detect the structural blood vessels of the SMAS and other methods for their in vivo visualization must be sought. The blood vessels of the SMAS mainly follow the topography of the muscle fibers. From the SMAS layer where they are found, the distribution branches reach the stroma of the region and the hypoderm. Our data can contribute to the development of surgical techniques tailored to each individual patient, as well as the enhancement of methods for stimulating cutaneous angiogenesis, improving scarring in this region, and advancing biotissue engineering techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soft superficial tissues of the face are against gravity through an intricate network of ligaments and ligamentous attachments. The aim of this investigation is to delineate the relationship between the muscular, fibrous, and vascular components of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system of the face (SMAS) at the level of its periosteal fixation areas from advanced radiological and novel biomarkers' perspectives. These areas represent key points underlying skin aging and the longevity of restorative surgery results. Methods: This study was carried out on 37 surgical specimens, excised from patients admitted for surgery. On the excised specimens, we used special immunohistochemical techniques, such as markers for collagen type III, angiogenesis, vascular endothelium (I-CAM2) and muscle fibers (MYH2). We performed a micro-CT evaluation of these 37 specimens. Results: The results of this study showed different radiologic and IHC characteristics of the means of periosteal fixation of the SMAS. Evidence of morphohistological and radiological peculiarities of the retaining ligaments highlights new data for future functional studies of these structures. Our research must be continued with larger groups of subjects and through detailed methodological studies of vascular microperfusion and could represent an important new step in biotissue engineering and the customization of surgical techniques involving the sub-SMAS layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout history, people have struggled to find out the secret of youth. The aim of the manuscript is to review the main achievements regarding the exploration of the aging face phenomenon. It should be very important to know the evolution in this field due to the increase in life expectancy among the population. Our purpose is for the current study to serve as a starting point towards exploring novel research avenues in molecular biology and the confocal immunofluorescence of cervicofacial soft tissues, employing cutting-edge techniques. All changes in the shape of the facial skeleton, soft tissue, retaining ligaments, fat compartments, and the skin envelope contribute to facial aging to varying degrees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in the Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, explores the characteristics of the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS) in the oral region. The study involved dissecting and examining the oral region, using staining techniques to identify specific markers. The results revealed that the SMAS has varying degrees of mobility, with the central portion being the most mobile. The study also highlighted differences in the density, distribution, and location of blood vessels in different areas of the face. These findings have implications for SMAS surgery and surgical techniques in perioral surgery and face lifting. The document provides detailed information on the anatomical structures and surgical implications of the SMAS, emphasizing the importance of understanding its anatomy for successful surgical procedures. It also discusses the presence of the SMAS in the oral region and its role in maintaining stability, functionality, and aesthetics. The document includes anatomical illustrations and references to previous studies on the topic. [Extracted from the article]

Face has a major social role, as an interface between individual and enviroment. It's appearance varies with age, due to inherent biological changes. Superficial facial structures can prolab with age or in pathological conditions (traumatic, infectuos, tumors). Superficial fascia, muscles of facial expression and the skin are anchored to the deep layers by different mechanisms. At the cheeks these mechanisms are represented by jugal fat pad and attachments of superficial layers to the nearby support structures. The study was conducted on 12 hemicraniums and mesoscopic images have been captured with an operator microscope. Tissue samples have been prelevated by sectioning the tissues perpendicular on the skin. The latter have been special stained for highlightning conjunctive and muscular fibres. Final results show the presence at this level of a truely superficial musculoaponeurotical system, with private provision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]