View source for Corrugator supercilii

== Introduction ==

The corrugator supercilii is a small, narrow muscle located at the medial end of the eyebrow, beneath the frontalis and orbicularis oculi muscles. This muscle plays a crucial role in facial expression, particularly in frowning and creating vertical wrinkles on the forehead. Its function is often associated with conveying emotions such as concern, concentration, and displeasure. Understanding the anatomy, innervation, and clinical significance of the corrugator supercilii is essential for professionals in fields such as medicine, particularly in plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as in neurology and psychology.

== Anatomy ==

=== Location and Structure ===

The corrugator supercilii muscle is situated deep to the skin of the forehead, lying beneath the frontalis muscle and the orbicularis oculi. It originates from the medial end of the superciliary arch of the frontal bone and extends laterally and superiorly, inserting into the skin of the eyebrow. The muscle fibers are oriented obliquely, allowing it to draw the eyebrow medially and downward.

=== Blood Supply ===

The blood supply to the corrugator supercilii is primarily provided by branches of the ophthalmic artery, a branch of the internal carotid artery. The supraorbital and supratrochlear arteries, which are branches of the ophthalmic artery, supply the muscle with oxygenated blood.

=== Innervation ===

The corrugator supercilii is innervated by the temporal branch of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This nerve is responsible for the motor control of the muscle, allowing it to contract and produce the characteristic frowning expression. The facial nerve also innervates other muscles of facial expression, highlighting its importance in conveying emotions.

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== Function ==

The primary function of the corrugator supercilii is to draw the eyebrows together and downward, creating vertical wrinkles in the forehead. This action is essential for expressions of frowning, concentration, and concern. The muscle works in conjunction with the orbicularis oculi, which encircles the eye and aids in closing the eyelids, and the frontalis, which elevates the eyebrows and creates horizontal forehead wrinkles.

== Clinical Significance ==

=== Botulinum Toxin Injections ===

The corrugator supercilii is a common target for [[Botulinum Toxin|botulinum toxin]] injections, a popular cosmetic procedure aimed at reducing the appearance of frown lines. By temporarily paralyzing the muscle, botulinum toxin can smooth out vertical wrinkles and create a more relaxed facial appearance. This procedure is widely used in aesthetic medicine and has a high satisfaction rate among patients seeking non-surgical facial rejuvenation.

=== Surgical Considerations ===

In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address issues related to the corrugator supercilii. For instance, in patients with severe brow ptosis or persistent frown lines, a brow lift or corrugator muscle resection may be performed. These procedures aim to elevate the brow and reduce the activity of the corrugator supercilii, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

=== Neurological Implications ===

The activity of the corrugator supercilii is often studied in the context of [[Emotion|emotional]] expression and recognition. Its role in conveying negative emotions such as anger and sadness makes it a focal point in research on facial feedback mechanisms and the neural pathways involved in emotion processing. Understanding the muscle's function can provide insights into conditions such as depression and anxiety, where facial expression may be altered.

== Evolutionary Perspective ==

The ability to express emotions through facial movements, including those mediated by the corrugator supercilii, is considered an evolutionary advantage. It allows for non-verbal communication and social interaction, which are essential for survival and reproduction. The corrugator supercilii's role in expressing concern or aggression could have been crucial in early human societies for signaling danger or establishing social hierarchies.

== See Also ==

* [[Facial Expression]]
* [[Facial Nerve]]
* [[Brow Lift]]

[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Muscles of the Head and Neck]]
[[Category:Facial Muscles]]