Muscle
Zygomaticus major
Raises the mouth corner during a smile
High-yield
Its pull is superolateral at the mouth angle. Facial nerve branches supply it; the relative zygomatic and buccal contributions vary.
Overview
Zygomaticus major runs obliquely from the cheekbone toward the mouth corner. By drawing that corner upward and outward, it contributes to smiling and works with the surrounding facial muscles to shape expression.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Lateral zygomatic bone near the temporal-process region
- Insertion
- Modiolus and surrounding tissues at the mouth angle
- Action
- Raises the mouth corner upward and laterally
- Innervation
- Zygomatic and/or buccal branches of the facial nerve (CN VII)
- Blood supply
- Facial arterial branches
Frequently asked questions
What does the zygomaticus major do?
The zygomaticus major raises the mouth corner upward and laterally.
What nerve innervates the zygomaticus major?
The zygomaticus major is innervated by the zygomatic and/or buccal branches of the facial nerve (CN VII).
Where does the zygomaticus major attach?
Origin: Lateral zygomatic bone near the temporal-process region. Insertion: Modiolus and surrounding tissues at the mouth angle.
What is the blood supply of the zygomaticus major?
The zygomaticus major is supplied by the facial arterial branches.