thumb|Surface projections of the major organs of the [[Trunk (anatomy)|trunk, using the vertebral column and rib cage as main reference points of surface anatomy.]]
Surface anatomy (also called superficial anatomy and visual anatomy) is the study of the external features of the body of an animal. In birds, this is termed topography. Surface anatomy deals with anatomical features that can be studied by sight, without dissection. As such, it is a branch of gross anatomy, along with endoscopic and radiological anatomy. Surface anatomy is a descriptive science. In particular, in the case of human surface anatomy, these are the form and proportions of the human body and the surface landmarks which correspond to deeper structures hidden from view, both in static pose and in motion.
In addition, the science of surface anatomy includes the theories and systems of body proportions and related artistic canons. The study of surface anatomy is the basis for depicting the human body in classical art.
Some pseudo-sciences such as physiognomy, phrenology and palmistry rely on surface anatomy.
Human surface anatomy
Surface anatomy of the thorax
thumb|left|Front of [[thorax, showing surface relations of bones, lungs (purple), pleura (blue), and heart (red outline). Heart valves are labeled with "B", "T", "A", and "P".<br /><br />First heart sound: caused by atrioventricular valves - Bicuspid/Mitral (B) and Tricuspid (T). <br /><br />Second heart sound caused by semilunar valves -- Aortic (A) and Pulmonary/Pulmonic (P).]]
Knowledge of the surface anatomy of the thorax (chest) is particularly important because it is one of the areas most frequently subjected to physical examination, like auscultation and percussion. In cardiology, Erb's point refers to the third intercostal space on the left sternal border where S2 heart sound is best auscultated. Some sources include the fourth left interspace.
Human female breasts are located on the chest wall, most frequently between the second and sixth rib.