The nose contains several small muscles that play a role in facial expression, particularly in conveying emotions, and also assist with breathing by adjusting the nostrils.
The muscles found in the nose, based on anatomical descriptions, include:
- Procerus: This muscle is located between the eyebrows and extends down over the bridge of the nose. It helps in pulling the skin down between the eyebrows and creating horizontal wrinkles across the bridge of the nose, often associated with frowning or concentration.
- Nasalis: This is considered the largest muscle of the nose and has two main parts:
- Compressor naris (Transverse part): Located on the side of the nose, this part compresses the nostrils.
- Dilator naris (Alar part): Situated at the base of the nostril, this part helps to flare or widen the nostrils.
- Depressor alae or myrtiforme: Positioned below the nostril opening, this muscle pulls the ala (wing) of the nose downwards, helping to constrict the nostril opening. It works in conjunction with the compressor naris.
- Levator labii superior alaeque nasi: Often abbreviated as LLSAN, this muscle is sometimes called the "Elvis muscle" due to the snarl-like expression it can produce. It originates near the eye and inserts into the upper lip and the ala of the nose, serving to elevate the upper lip and dilate (flare) the nostril.
- Depressor septi nasi muscle: Located beneath the septum of the nose, this muscle pulls the nasal septum downwards. It assists the compressor naris part of the nasalis muscle in reducing the size of the nostril opening.
These muscles, while small, are essential for dynamic facial movements and regulating airflow through the nasal passages, especially during exertion or strong emotional states.
Here is a summary of the muscles:
| Muscle Name | Location | Primary Action(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Procerus | Bridge of nose, between eyebrows | Pulls skin down, creates horizontal wrinkles |
| Nasalis | Side and base of nose | Compresses or flares nostrils |
| Depressor alae / Myrtiforme | Below nostril opening | Pulls ala down, constricts nostril |
| Levator labii superior alaeque nasi | Side of nose/upper lip, near eye origin | Elevates upper lip, flares nostril |
| Depressor septi nasi muscle | Beneath nasal septum | Pulls septum down, constricts nostril |
Understanding these muscles provides insight into the anatomy governing nasal function and facial expressions related to the nose.
