Superior Lip Levator Beneath The Skin

Description

Running along the lateral aspect of the nose, the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (angular portion of the quadratus labii superioris) is presented deep to the facial skin in an adult male, oriented superior to inferior from the frontal process of the maxilla toward the upper lip and the nasal ala. Its muscle belly lies superficial to the maxilla and lateral nasal cartilage, with fibers tracking parallel to the lateral crus region before blending inferiorly with the levator labii superioris and the orbicularis oris at the upper lip. Medially, the muscle approaches the margin of the naris and the alar base; laterally, it sits close to the nasolabial fold and adjacent mimetic musculature. Functionally, this is the muscle that elevates the upper lip and dilates the nostril by raising the alar margin. A small structure, big consequences. Overactivity contributes to excessive gingival show and accentuation of the nasolabial crease, while targeted chemodenervation at the alar base is a common aesthetic tactic to soften a gummy smile or reduce alar flare. The relationship to the lateral nasal cartilage also matters in rhinoplasty planning, where maneuvers near the alar rim and soft triangle can alter dynamic nostril shape if nearby elevators are irritated or scar tethering develops. Use this asset in head and neck anatomy teaching when covering muscles of facial expression, in rhinoplasty and perinasal injection training materials to map safe, superficial planes around the ala, or in clinical graphics explaining alar flare, gummy smile management, and postoperative nasal dynamics to patients. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.