Superficial fascia is found in the subcutis in most regions of the body, blending with the reticular layer of the dermis. [1] It is present on the face, over the upper portion of the sternocleidomastoid, at the nape of the neck, and overlying the sternum. [2] It is comprised mainly of loose areolar connective tissue and adipose and is the layer that primarily determines the shape of a body. In addition to its subcutaneous presence, this type of fascia surrounds organs and glands, neurovascular bundles, and is found at many other locations where it fills otherwise unoccupied space. It serves as a storage medium of fat and water; as a passageway for lymph, nerve and blood vessels; and as a protective padding to cushion and insulate. [3].
Fascial dynamics
Due to its viscoelastic properties, superficial fascia can stretch to accommodate the deposition of adipose that accompanies both ordinary and prenatal weight gain. After pregnancy and weight loss, the superficial fascia slowly reverts to its original level of tension.
References
- ^ Skandalakis, John E.; Skandalakis, P.N.; Skandalakis, L.J.; Skandalakis, J. (2002). Surgical Anatomy and Technique, 2nd Ed.. Atlanta, GA: Springer. pp. 1–2. ISBN 0-38798-752-5.
- ^ Paoletti, Serge (2006). The Fasciae: Anatomy, Dysfunction & Treatment. Seattle, WA: Eastland Press. pp. 23–24. ISBN 0-939616-53-X.
- ^ Hedley, Gil. (2005). The Integral Anatomy Series Vol. 1: Skin and Superficial fascia. [DVD]. Integral Anatomy Productions. http://integralanatomy.com/. Retrieved 2006-07-17.
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