Zygomaticus Minor Muscle

Last updated: Nov 15th, 2024

The zygomaticus minor muscle is one of two zygomaticus muscles, the zygomaticus minor and zygomaticus major, which are two facial muscles that aid in articulation of the mouth, nose, and cheeks. The zygomaticus minor is a small bundle of muscle fibers lying in the area of the cheek. Together with two other muscle bundles, it forms the nasolabial furrow, from the side of the nose to the upper lip, which is deepened in expressions of sadness. The zygomaticus major is larger than the minor, but it also lies in the cheek area and extends down to the mouth. It draws the angle of the mouth upward and backward in laughing.