Which nerve is more responsible for innervating lateral facial structures?

• A. Infraorbital nerve
• B. Zygomatic nerve
• C. Ophthalmic nerve
• D. Mandibular nerve

Answer: (B)

Innervation to the lateral facial region is provided mainly by the zygomatic nerve. This branch of the maxillary division (V2) travels to the lateral cheek and temple via its zygomaticofacial and zygomaticotemporal branches, targeting the skin in those areas. The infraorbital nerve (also from V2) supplies the midface around the lower eyelid, upper lip, and side of the nose, not the far lateral cheek. The ophthalmic nerve (V1) covers the upper face—forehead and around the eye. The mandibular nerve (V3) supplies the lower face and motor function to the muscles of mastication. Thus, the zygomatic nerve best explains innervation of lateral facial structures.