Levator Labii Superioris Alaeque Nasi

General information

Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi is a facial muscle that lifts the upper lip and flares the nostrils.

Literal meaning

The muscle from the wing of the nose that elevates the upper lip.

Interesting information

Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi has the distinction of being the longest name for a muscle in an animal. Its tediously long name is why it is sometimes referred to in the literature as simply Otto’s muscle, allegedly in reference to an anatomist who tired of constantly using its full name in his work. It is also sometimes referred to as “the Elvis muscle” because it allows for elevation of the lip which is essential for forming the lip snarl singer Elvis Presley was well known for.

Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi has its origin at the superior section of the frontal process of the maxilla. It bifurcates into two slips: the medial slip and the lateral slip. The medial slip inserts into the lower cartilage of the nose while the lateral slip blends into the upper lip. It is situated close to levator labii superioris but distinctly closer to the nose.

Although nostril flaring occurs naturally during heavy breathing resulting from physical exertion, not everyone experiences voluntary control of the nostril flaring function of levator labii superioris alaeque nasi. People tend to associate nostril flaring with strong emotions such as anger. Some sources claim that only around 30% of the human population can voluntarily flare their nostrils.

Origin

Frontal process of the maxilla.

Insertion

Medial slip: alar cartilage of the nose.

Lateral slip: joins with orbicularis oris in upper lip.

Function

Elevating the upper lip; dilating the nostrils.

Nerve supply

Facial nerve (C7).

Blood supply

Facial artery.

Relevant research

Recent research has illuminated the morphology and topography of the deep muscle layer of levator labii superioris alaeque nasi. A more comprehensive anatomical understanding of the muscle and its layers will inform surgical procedures involving the muscle and lead to improved post-operative patient outcomes.

Hur MS, Hu KS, Park JT, Youn KH, Kim HJ. (2010). “New anatomical insight of the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi and the transverse part of the nasalis”. Surg Radiol Anat. 32(8):753-6.

Injection of botulinum toxin (botox) directly into levator labii superioris alaeque nasi has shown promise as a new treatment option for plastic surgery patients who complain of a gummy or lopsided smile. Patient satisfaction with the new treatment is very high and there are no commonly reported complications.

Sucupira E, Abramovitz A. (2012). “A simplified method for smile enhancement: botulinum toxin injection for gummy smile”. Plast Reconstr Surg. 130(3):726-8.

Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi exercises

To isolate levator labii superioris alaeque nasi, you can take a page from late singer Elvis Presley’s book. Stand in front of a mirror and concentrate on your upper lip. Contract your facial muscles so that you make the characteristic Elvis “snarl”. If you are unable to lift only one side of your upper lip, you can lift both sides simultaneously, baring your upper teeth. Hold your upper lip in the elevated “snarling” position for ten seconds then return to the starting positon. Repeat the exercise ten times daily. Additionally, the simple act of smiling will activate levator labii superioris alaeque nasi.