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Subcutaneous muscle of the neck
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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The subcutaneous muscle of the neck (platysma) is thin, flat, and lies directly under the skin. It begins in the thoracic region below the clavicle on the superficial plate of the pectoral fascia, passes upward and medially, occupying almost the entire anterolateral region of the neck. A small area, shaped like a triangle above the jugular notch of the sternum, remains uncovered by the muscle.
The bundles of the subcutaneous muscle of the neck, rising above the base of the lower jaw in the area of the face, are woven into the chewing fascia. Part of the bundles of the subcutaneous muscle of the neck join the muscle that lowers the lower lip and the muscle of laughter, woven into the corner of the mouth.
Function of the platysma muscle: lifts the skin of the neck, protecting the superficial veins from compression; pulls the corner of the mouth downwards.
Innervation of the platysma muscle of the neck: facial nerve - VII (cervical branch).
Blood supply of the platysma muscle: superficial artery of the neck, facial artery.
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