Abbreviations

• Superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS)

Definitions

• Termed "mimetic muscles/mimic muscles/muscles of facial mimicry" as primary function of facial muscles is facial expression
  • In face, muscles insert directly into dermis via SMAS allowing for facial expression (whereas in remainder of body, subcutaneous tissue is separated from muscle by investing layer of fascia)
• SMAS: Continuous organized fibrous network connecting facial muscles to dermis
• Modiolus: Dense fibromuscular structure at lateral border of corner of mouth formed by convergence of muscles attaching here

Overview

Anatomy Relationships

Internal Contents

I: Muscles Inserting at Scalp

II: Muscles Inserting at Orbit

III: Muscles Inserting at Nose

IV: Muscles Inserting at Upper Lip

V: Muscles Inserting at Modiolus/Angle of Mouth

VI: Muscles Inserting at Lower Lip

Imaging Recommendations

Imaging Pitfalls

Clinical Importance

Major Contributor Muscles to Common Facial Expressions

Embryologic Events