What is the Procerus?

The procerus is a muscle located in the facial region of the body that begins at the bridge of the nose and inserts into the frontal bone, between the eyebrows. The procerus muscle helps to pull down the skin that lies between the eyebrows. This aids in the movement that allows flaring of the nostrils and the facial expressions that show anger.

There are three muscles located in the nose. The procerus is a small muscle that has a bit of a pyramid shape. The buccal branches of the facial nerve are responsible for providing the nerve supply to this muscle. When a person wrinkles his or her nose, it is the procerus muscle that is being used. Transverse wrinkles on the face are often caused by this muscle.

The procerus provides what is considered to be a roof over the eyelids. It helps to produce a furrowing of the brow and assists in showing emotion in the face. One of the primary functions of the procerus is to help provide protection to the eyes from the glare of the sun.

Because the procerus muscle is responsible for the appearance of emotion on the face, particularly an angry or scowling look, many people have sought ways to reduce the appearance of such lines. Wrinkles are also prone to appearing in this area of the face. Botox injections have become increasingly popular in the treatment of these dermatological issues.

Botox injections became popular several years ago for the treatment of disorders relating to the optic nerve. Since that time, several other uses for Botox have been found. Cosmetic use of Botox has increased dramatically in recent years and is considered to be a safe an effective way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, including those that are related to the procerus muscle.

Basically, Botox works by paralyzing the muscle. This is the reason the injections are given directly into the muscle. By paralyzing the muscle, the contractions that are responsible for causing the lines and wrinkles are stopped. Results of these injections can be seen within a few days of receiving the injection and can last for several months before needing to be repeated.

This type of procedure can generally be done in a doctor's office in just a matter of minutes. Anesthesia is not usually needed, although some sort of numbing cream is sometimes used in an effort to reduce any discomfort. Many report outstanding results in reducing the lines and wrinkles caused by the procerus muscle.