Corpus: Superior auricular muscle

The auricularis superior muscle is a thin, fan-shaped muscle located on the head, which belongs to the outer ear muscles. It is the largest of the ear muscles and part of the facial expression (mimic) musculature.

The auricularis superior muscle originates from the lateral edge of the galea aponeurotica. Its fibers converge to form a thin tendon that inserts into the upper part of the auricle (pinna).

Contraction of the auricularis superior muscle results in elevation of the pinna (cranially).

The auricularis superior muscle is innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII).