The alar part of nasalis dilates the nostril, opposing the compressor/transverse part. Together they form the full nasalis muscle. The alar part is the same as the dilator naris in some nomenclature systems.
| Origin | Maxilla, over the canine tooth root |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Lateral crus of the lower lateral cartilage |
| Nerve Supply | Facial nerve, buccal branch (VII) |
| Blood Supply | Lateral nasal artery |
| Actions |
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|---|
It flares the nostril, widening the nasal opening during deep breathing.
The alar part of nasalis (dilator naris) flares the nostril and stiffens the ala during inspiration, which helps keep the external nasal valve open; visible nasal flaring is a sign of increased work of breathing, especially in infants. In facial nerve palsy its loss contributes to alar collapse and nasal obstruction on the paralysed side, which may need alar rim or other nasal valve grafts. In rhinoplasty and nasal fracture repair the nasal muscles are elevated from the underlying framework, and their redraping affects nostril shape.
Active during forced nasal breathing, the nostril flares with alar part contraction.
Paralysis of the alar part of nasalis lets the ala collapse inward on inspiration, causing nasal obstruction on the affected side, managed with nasal dilators or alar rim and valve grafts.
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