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Compressor Naris

pars transversa m. nasalis (compressor naris)

Compressor naris is the transverse part of nasalis, compressing the cartilaginous nose. It acts with dilator naris in a coordinated way during nasal breathing and is one of the key muscles of nasal expression.

Nerve: Facial nerve — buccal branch (VII) Blood Supply: Facial artery — lateral nasal branch Region: Head & Skull

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Maxilla — lateral to the nose, above the lateral incisor
Insertion	Aponeurosis across the dorsum of the nose — joining the contralateral muscle
Nerve Supply	Facial nerve — buccal branch (VII)
Blood Supply	Facial artery — lateral nasal branch

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions	Compresses the nostril — narrows the nasal aperture; Flares the ala slightly

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Compressor naris is targeted in rhinoplasty tip refinement — its over-activity produces a pinched nasal tip appearance. Botulinum injection relaxes the compressor naris to widen the tip. Nasal tip bunny lines from compressor naris contraction are treated by botulinum injection across the nasal dorsum.

Palpation

Visible as the muscle producing transverse nasal skin creases ("bunny lines") during scrunching the nose.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Compressor Naris Over-activity — Bunny Lines

Transverse nasal skin creases from compressor naris contraction during smiling, treated by low-dose botulinum injection to the nasal transverse crease.