Frontal belly of occipitofrontalis

The frontal belly of the occipitofrontalis (Latin: venter frontalis musculi occipitofrontalis), also known as the frontalis, is a paired facial muscle situated in the forehead region. This muscle covers the upper anterior aspect of the skull. The frontal belly is one of the two bellies of the occipitofrontalis muscle, and it is connected with the occipital belly by the epicranial aponeurosis.

Origin

The frontal belly of the occipitofrontalis originates from the epicranial aponeurosis (galea aponeurotica).

Insertion

The frontal belly inserts into the skin of the eyebrow.

Action

Upon contraction, the frontal belly lifts the eyebrow and upper eyelid, thus producing horizontal wrinkles in the skin of the forehead. Contractions of this muscle produce the facial expression of astonishment.

Innervation

The frontal belly of the occipitofrontalis is innervated by the temporal branch of the facial nerve (CN VII).

Blood supply

The frontal belly receives arterial blood supply mainly from the branches of the superficial temporal and ophthalmic arteries.