AnatomyDeck

Muscle

Zygomaticus major

Smiling muscle

Head & neckMuscular system

High-yield

Elevates the angle of the mouth in smiling; CN VII (zygomatic/buccal branches).

Overview

A muscle of facial expression running from the cheekbone to the angle of the mouth that draws it up and back to smile.

Reference facts

  • Origin

    Zygomatic bone (anterior to the temporal process)

  • Insertion

    Angle of the mouth (modiolus)

  • Action

    Draws the angle of the mouth superolaterally (smiling)

  • Innervation

    Zygomatic and buccal branches of the facial nerve (CN VII)

  • Blood supply

    Facial artery

Your notes