Muscles about the nose and around the eye

Let’s delve into the structure and significance of the nose’s anatomical layers, essential for understanding safe and effective medical aesthetics procedures. The nose is composed of several key layers, each with its unique properties and functions.

Ordered from superficial to deep these layers are:

Skin: The outermost layer, varying in thickness across different parts of the nose. It’s thinner at the bridge and thicker at the alar bases and the nasal tip. This variation influences the selection and injection depth of treatments.

Superficial Fatty Layer: Directly beneath the skin, this layer provides volume and shape to the nose. In the deep portion of this layer vascular structures are found.

Fibromuscular Layer (SMAS): The superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) in the nose includes muscle and fibrous tissue. This layer is crucial for facial expressions and nasal function.It is in this layer key muscles are found in the nose such as the nasalis.

Deep Fatty Layer: Located beneath the fibromuscular layer, this deeper fat compartment can influence the nose’s overall shape and projection. Modifying the deep portions of this layer is the traditional target for HA fillers placed in the nose.

Periosteum or Perichondrium: These layers cover the nasal bones and cartilage, respectively. They provide structural support and are key landmarks in rhinoplasty and non-surgical nose reshaping. The superior third of the nose is composed of periosteum; the inferior ⅔ is composed of perichondrium.

Understanding these layers is critical for the medical professional when performing aesthetic procedures on the nose.

Question:

Match the following anatomical layers of the nose with their corresponding functions or characteristics.

The Nasalis muscle, pivotal in facial expression, comprises two parts: the transverse and alar. It is primarily situated on the bridge of the nose, overlaying the nasal bone and cartilage, and enveloped by the skin. This muscle’s superior portion links to the procerus muscle, extending its influence in facial expressions, particularly in expressing emotions such as anger or disdain.

The alar part, found on the nose’s sides adjacent to the Depressor septi muscle, plays a crucial role in nostril dilation. Another noteworthy muscle is the Dilator nasi anterior, attached to the anterior segment of the alar part, further aiding in nares dilation. The Nasalis muscle is intricately associated with several blood vessels, including the angular and dorsal nasal arteries, highlighting its importance in facial vascular anatomy.

Functionally, the transverse part of the Nasalis muscle is integral in creating wrinkles on the nose’s bridge, contributing to facial expressions. The alar part, by enlarging the nostrils, assists in nasal respiration, underscoring the muscle’s dual role in both expression and physiological function. Due to its significant role in facial expressions, the Nasalis muscle is often targeted in aesthetic procedures using neuromodulators to adjust expressions or nasal shape for therapeutic or cosmetic purposes.

Question:

Match the following anatomical structures with their correct relationship to the Nasalis muscle.

The Orbicularis oculi is a critical facial muscle, primarily involved in the movements of the eyelids and functions such as blinking and closing the eyes. This muscle plays a pivotal role in facial expressions, tear flow, and lymphatic drainage. Its unique structure, shaped like a lens on aviator sunglasses, with no bony attachments, emphasizes its significance in facial dynamics and aesthetics. The muscle is very superficial and lies directly under the subcutaneous tissue.

Question:

True or false – The Orbicularis oculi muscle is directly attached to facial bones.

The Orbicularis oculi muscle is composed of orbital, palpebral, and lacrimal parts, each contributing to its diverse functions. Situated superficially, it plays a vital role in non-verbal communication by facilitating various facial expressions.

Question:

Match the following parts of the Orbicularis oculi muscle to their functions: