Superior Lip Levator, Gross Anatomy

Description

Shown in lateral profile, the midface musculature centers on levator labii superioris and levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (also termed the angular head of quadratus labii superioris), running inferiorly from the infraorbital margin and frontal process of the maxilla toward the upper lip and the lateral nasal ala. Medial to these slips, the nasalis spans the dorsum and sidewall of the nose, while orbicularis oris encircles the oral aperture and receives fibers that elevate and evert the central upper lip. Posteriorly, the masseter caps the mandibular ramus with buccinator deep to the cheek, and the sternocleidomastoid courses obliquely from the mastoid process to the manubrium and medial clavicle; auricular cartilage is rendered without muscular texture. Clear landmarks. This lateral view matters when teaching the layered anatomy of the nasolabial region, because levator labii superioris alaeque nasi sits immediately superficial to the maxilla and adjacent to the angular vessels, a relationship that becomes concrete during dissection, filler injection planning, and elevation of soft tissue in rhinoplasty or nasolabial flap work. Hyperactivity of the levator labii superioris complex contributes to excessive gingival display (gummy smile), and targeted chemodenervation often focuses on these slips while respecting the nearby infraorbital neurovascular bundle. Use it to anchor head and neck gross anatomy labs, plastic surgery and dermatologic anatomy teaching on perioral and nasal dynamics, and publisher figures explaining muscles of facial expression versus mastication in the same field. It also suits patient-facing education on smile asymmetry or post-traumatic midface weakness when paired with clinical photographs. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.