Levator Labii Superioris Alaeque Nasi Muscle

Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi is one of the muscles that plays a role in making of the facial expressions. It is also known as the Elvis muscle due to the famous snarl expression performed by Elvis Presley. In addition to expressions, it is linked with the nose to allow it to dilate the nostrils. This muscle has the longest anatomical name among the body muscles. Its long name explains it all, the muscle that elevates the upper lip and causes the dilation of nostrils.

Masseter Muscle Zygomaticus Major Muscle Levator Labii Superioris Muscle Levator Labii Superioris Alaeque Nasi Muscle Zygomaticus Minor Muscle Orbicularis Oris Muscle Depressor anguli oris Muscle Depressor Labii Inferioris Muscle Mentalis Muscle Buccinator Muscle

Levator Labii Superioris Alaeque Nasi Muscle

ORIGIN AND INSERTION

It arises from the frontal process of maxilla, also known as the inferomedial margin of orbit. It ends up by making distal attachment to the major alar cartilage of nose.

NERVE SUPPLY

This muscle gets its innervations from the facial nerve (7th cranial nerve) through the buccal branch.

BLOOD SUPPLY

Levator labii superioris is supplied arterially by the facial artery.

FUNCTIONS

It plays its role in certain facial movements that result in typical expressions. Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi dilates the anterior nasal aperture by depressing the ala laterally. This results in flaring nostrils such as seen in anger and exertion.

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