Compressor narium minor

The compressor narium minor (Latin: musculus compressor narium minor) is a small inconsistent muscle of facial expression. It is classified as the nasal facial muscle located in the anterior nose region. Together with the transverse part of the nasalis muscle, the compressor narium minor compresses the nostrils. This muscle is present in slightly more than half of individuals and seems to decrease the size of the nasal aperture due to the narrowed nostrils.

Origin

The compressor narium minor muscle arises from the anterior part of the lower lateral cartilage of the nose.

Insertion

The compressor narium minor inserts into the skin near the upper border of the nostril.

Action

Upon contraction, the compressor narium minor pulls the nasal tip in a caudal direction and narrows the nostrils.

Innervation

The compressor narium minor muscle is innervated by the zygomatic and temporal branches of the facial nerve (CN VII).

Blood supply

The compressor narium minor is supplied by the branches of the facial artery.