Zygomatic Nerve - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The zygomatic nerve is a nerve of the head and neck region. It is the main branch of the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve. It supplies sensation to the skin of the cheek, temple and lateral forehead. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The zygomatic nerve arises from the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve within the pterygopalatine fossa. It enters the bony orbit through the inferior orbital fissure, and then passes anteriorly through the inferior aspect of the orbit. It then terminates by dividing into two terminal branches: Zygomaticotemporal nerve – leaves the orbit via the zygomaticotemporal foramen. It supplies sensation to the lateral aspect of the forehead and temple. It also carries parasympathetic branches to the lacrimal nerve – which in turn supplies the lacrimal gland. Zygomaticofacial nerve – leaves the orbit via the zygomaticofacial foramen. It supplies sensory innervation to the malar prominence of the cheek. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The zygomatic nerve arises from the maxillary nerve. Sensory Functions The zygomatic nerve contributes to the cutaneous innervation of the face via two branches: Zygomaticotemporal branch – supplies skin of lateral forehead and temple region. Zygomaticofacial branch – supplies skin of the malar prominence of the cheek. Frequent questions What is the zygomatic nerve? The zygomatic nerve is a branch of the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve, responsible for providing sensory innervation to areas such as the cheek, temple, and lateral forehead. What are the main branches of the zygomatic nerve? The zygomatic nerve divides into two primary branches: the zygomaticotemporal nerve, which innervates the lateral forehead and temple, and the zygomaticofacial nerve, which supplies sensation to the malar prominence of the cheek. Where does the zygomatic nerve originate? The zygomatic nerve originates from the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve within the pterygopalatine fossa before entering the orbit through the inferior orbital fissure. What sensory areas does the zygomatic nerve supply? The zygomatic nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin of the cheek, temple, and lateral forehead, ensuring sensation in these facial regions. What is the clinical significance of the zygomatic nerve? Understanding the zygomatic nerve's pathway and branches is essential for diagnosing facial sensory disorders and for surgical procedures involving the maxillary region. Rate This Article