Origin
Zygomatic bone.
Insertion
The zygomaticus major blends with the orbicularis oris and the levator anguli oris.
The zygomaticus minor blends with the levator labii superioris and then into the lip on the superior aspect.
Blood supply
Facial artery, transverse facial artery.
Nerve supply
Facial nerve.
Action
The zygomaticus major helps in smiling by raising the corners of the mouth. The zygomaticus minor helps to give an expression of sadness by moving the upper lip.
Disease/Injury
Frequent use of this muscle can lead to crow’s feet, which are a type of wrinkles.
Exercise
Place your middle three fingers on your cheeks and push down. Smile hard and hold the smile for a count of five and then relax. Repeat the exercise 10 times.
Interesting facts
Variation in the structure of this muscle forms dimples on your cheeks.
