Glabellar Complex
Pronunciation: gla-BELL-ar KOM-pleks
The anatomical region comprising the glabella and the surrounding muscles responsible for vertical frown lines between the eyebrows.
Full Definition
The glabellar complex encompasses the glabellar skin and the underlying musculature — principally the corrugator supercilii, procerus, and depressor supercilii muscles — that collectively produce dynamic vertical and oblique rhytides in the inter-brow region. It is one of the most commonly treated areas with botulinum toxin injections in aesthetic practice. Editors should note that 'glabellar complex' refers to the anatomical region as a whole, whereas 'glabellar lines' denotes the specific rhytides within it. The two terms are frequently conflated in clinical documents. 'Glabellar' should always carry the double 'l.'
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'glabellar lines' in all documents. Always spelled 'glabellar' (double 'l'); the misspelling 'glabelar' is a common error to watch for.
In Context
- "Botulinum toxin was injected at five points across the glabellar complex to achieve full relaxation of the corrugator and procerus muscles." — Procedural documentation
- "Note that 'glabellar complex' describes the anatomical unit, while 'glabellar lines' refers to the visible rhytides — use the terms precisely." — Editorial style note