Chapter 5

Embryology and Anatomy of the Eyelid

Edward H. Bedrossian Jr.

In this chapter, eyelid anatomy is discussed in a layered structural fashion. A brief discussion of the embryology
and surface topography is reviewed, and the anatomy of the eyelid is then discussed—beginning with the skin
anteriorly and proceeding to the conjunctiva posteriorly. Because the dynamics of eyelid function are associated
with the globe and with the surrounding orbital bones, the chapter continues with a discussion of the suspensory
ligaments and the eyelid margin. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the vascular supply and the nerve
supply to the eyelids. Clinical correlation is provided where applicable.

Embryology
Early Development of the Embryo
A general understanding of the development of the embryo facilitates an understanding of the development of
the eyelids. The fertilized ovum is the original cell, which undergoes several divisions to form a solid clump of
cells called a morula. The morula then enlarges and forms a central cavity, to become known as a blastula or
blastodermic vesicle (Fig. 5.1). The outer wall of the blastula forms the placenta. The blastodermic vesicle
embeds itself in the uterine mucosa, enlarges, and forms two cavities—each with a single layer of cuboidal
epithelium. The upper cavity is the amnion; the lower is the archenteron or yolk sac. The embryo develops from
the embryonic plate at the area of contact between the two. At this stage, the embryonic plate consists of two
layers: an outer or dorsal ectoderm (epithelial lining of the amnion) and an inner or ventral entoderm (epithelial
lining of the yolk sac). A central depression (the primitive streak) followed by a groove develops on the
ectodermal surface of the embryonic plate. A middle layer (intraembryonic mesoderm) appears, thus dividing the
embryonic plate into three germinal layers from which all tissues of the body develop. The neural groove closes
to form the neural canal (24th day). The surface ectoderm within the neural canal is known as the
neuroectoderm.1,2,3

Figure 5.1. Early cell division: (A) fertilized ovum, (B) morula, (C) blastula.

At the anterior end of the embryonic plate, three head folds form: the forebrain, the midbrain, and the hindbrain.
At the front of the forebrain, a small depression is noted on each side of the midline. This depression is the
anlage of the eye and is called the optic pit. Toward the end of the third week of gestation, the optic pit deepens
until it contacts the surface ectoderm and becomes the primary optic vesicle. At this stage, the eyes are at the
side of the head at an angle of 180° (Fig. 5.2). The embryo consists of a head with the three divisions of the
brain, a segmented body with spinal canal, and a tail fold. That portion of the mesoderm closest to the spinal
canal is known as paraxial mesoderm. The primary optic vesicle then undergoes invagination to form the
secondary optic vesicle or the optic cup. This starts at 2.5 weeks' gestation and is complete by 1 month.3,4,5

Figure 5.2. Fetal optic axis. At 3 to 4 weeks' gestation, the primary optic vesicles are at 180°.

Segmentation
Humans are segmented beings. Segmentation begins simultaneously with closure of the neural groove (24th
day). Segmentation extends posteriorly and anteriorly to the head region, where segmentation is lost. Instead,
five branchial or pharyngeal arches form. At 5 weeks' gestation, a sheet of immature mesoderm originates from
the first branchial arch (mandibular arch). The first branchial arch consists of a small dorsal portion known as the
maxillary process, which extends forward beneath the eye to develop into the lower eyelid. Cephalad to the first
branchial arch, mesenchymal proliferation creates other folds that form other facial processes: the frontonasal,
medial nasal, lateral nasal, and mandibular processes (Fig. 5.3).1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8

Figure 5.3. The facial processes.

Eyelid Formation
The maxillary process lies in apposition to the paraxial mesoderm of the eye and the nasal process. Between
them is a groove of thickened ectoderm, which becomes buried as the maxillary process overgrows the nasal
process. This occurs at 5 weeks' gestation and is the first indication of the nasolacrimal duct. The maxillary
process extends superiorly to form the lower eyelid at 6 weeks' gestation. In doing so, the inner end folds in a
layer of ectodermal tissue that is continuous with the nasolacrimal duct at its lower end. Before the lower lids are
apparent, the upper lids are formed by an extension of orbital or paraxial mesoderm known as the frontonasal
process. Thus, the upper lid arises from the frontonasal process slightly before the lower lid arises from the
maxillary process. The inner end of the upper lid also folds in a portion of ectodermal plate, which forms the
upper canaliculus. This unites with the lower canaliculus at the upper end of the nasolacrimal duct.6,7,8

Lid Fusion
At 1.5 months' gestation, the lateral canthus is formed by the union of the upper and lower eyelid folds. The two
lids come together and temporarily fuse from within outward at 8 weeks' gestation (Fig. 5.4A). Closure is
complete at 10 weeks' gestation. Desmosomal adhesions between the lid margins isolate the eye from the
amniotic fluid.1 All lid structures are formed during this period of adhesion (Fig. 5.4B). The Riolan muscle can be
identified by the end of the third month. Hair bulbs of eyelashes appear first in the upper lids, then in the lower
lids in an anteroposterior direction.2 Development is slightly more advanced in the upper lid, compared with the
lower. At the beginning of the fourth month, the meibomian glands begin to appear. The posterior half of the lid
shows a greater condensation of basal lamina and collagen fibers, indicating the tarsal plate region. The
meibomian glands grow into the tarsal plates—first in the upper then in the lower lids. The apocrine Moll glands
also appear around the cilia follicles during the fourth month, followed shortly by the sebaceous glands of
Zeis.3,6

Figure 5.4. Eyelid development. A. Eyelid fusion (8–10 weeks' gestation). B. Development of margin structures
(3–4 months' gestation); eyelid dysjunction (5–6 months' gestation).

At 2.5 months' gestation, the levator palpebrae superioris develops. It separates from the superior rectus muscle
at the fourth month of gestation. Clinically, failure of separation of these muscles would result in congenital
ptosis.

Lid Dysjunction
At the end of the fifth month (weeks 21–26 of gestation), the epithelial adhesions between the lids begin to break
down (Fig. 5.4C). This process is usually completed by the sixth month but may persist until shortly before birth.
Holocrine production of lipids from the meibomian glands, keratinization of the lid margin, and pull of the
developing eyelid retractors are responsible for the dysjunction.7,8

Abnormalities of Eyelid Development

When normal progression of lid development is interrupted, a spectrum of congenital anomalies occurs.8,9
Cryptophthalmia (ablepharon)—absence of the eyelid—is caused by failure of the eyelid folds to embryologically
develop. The cornea undergoes metaplasia and is covered with skin, which passes continuously from the
forehead to the cheek. Most are sporadic, but a recessive inheritance pattern has been suggested.10
Cryptophthalmia occurs bilaterally twice as often as unilaterally and is slightly more common in males. It can be
associated with ear and nose malformations, cleft lip and palate, hypertelorism, laryngeal atresia, lacrimal duct
defects, renal anomalies, syndactyly, and meningoencephalocele.11
Microblepharia is an incomplete lid development wherein the eyeball is not covered, resulting in congenital
lagophthalmos.
Coloboma of the eyelid is a defect in the lid margin, with absence of lashes and glands. The most common site is
in the upper lid at the junction of the inner third and the outer two thirds. In the lower eyelid, it is more frequently
seen at the junction of the outer third and the inner two thirds. These abnormalities may be owing to the
formation and pressure of amniotic bands or from failure of the eyelids to fuse during embryonic life. This may be
associated with cleft palate, mandibulofacial dysostosis, limbal dermoids, lipodermoids, iris colobomas, or brow
colobomas.9
Epicanthus is a fold of skin that extends from the side of the nose to the upper lid and partially hides the inner
canthus. This condition is normally present in the embryo and early infancy. Frequently, it is associated with
ptosis, although it may occur independently. Epicanthus is usually bilateral but may be asymmetric or unilateral.
There are four known types, depending on the origin of the upper end of the fold. In epicanthus superciliaris, the
fold arises in the region of the eyebrow and extends over the lacrimal sac. Epicanthus palpebralis (Fig. 5.5) has
an epicanthal fold arising from the upper tarsal area, extending toward the lower margin of the orbit. The fold is
equally distributed in the upper and lower lids. In epicanthus tarsalis (Fig. 5.6), the epicanthal fold arises from the
tarsal fold and ends close to the inner canthus. Thus, the fold is more prominent in the upper lid. It is a normal
variation of the Asian eyelid. In epicanthus inversus (Fig. 5.7), the fold arises in the lower lid and extends
upward, partially covering the inner canthus, usually terminating in the upper lid.

Figure 5.5. Epicanthus palpebralis (also known as simple epicanthus). The amount of tissue above is the same
amount as below the canthal angle.
Figure 5.6. Epicanthus tarsalis. The epicanthal fold is more prominent in the upper eyelid.

Figure 5.7. Blepharophimosis syndrome. The common triad of ptosis, horizontal shortening of the palpebral
fissures, and epicanthus inversus (fold more prominent in lower lid) is seen.

Congenital ptosis is most commonly seen because of the absence or fibrotic nature of the levator palpebrae
superioris. It may be unilateral or bilateral and associated with weakness of the superior rectus muscle from
which the levator is derived. In the “jaw winking” phenomena, ptosis appears when the patient chews. This is
caused by an abnormal association of the nerve to the levator muscle and the nerve to the external pterygoid
muscle.
Many abnormalities exist of eyelid margin differentiation. Distichiasis is a condition in which aberrant lashes
develop at or near the orifices of the meibomian glands. Ankyloblepharon is an abnormal fusion of the lid margins
from incomplete separation of the lid folds. The fusion may be complete but is more common at the inner
canthus. A variant is ankyloblepharon filiform adnatum, in which the lid margins are connected by multiple fine
bands. Blepharophimosis is a horizontal narrowing of the palpebral aperture. The triad of blepharophimosis
syndrome includes ptosis, horizontal shortening of the palpebral fissures, and epicanthus inversus (Fig. 5.7).
Telecanthus, lower eyelid entropion or ectropion, hypoplasia of the superior orbital rims, a poorly developed
nasal bridge, and hypertelorism can also be seen with this condition.
Epiblepharon is an additional fold of skin running horizontally below the lower eyelid margin. It often is associated
with loss of the eyelid crease and may be partly caused by a lack of deep anchoring of the superficial skin to the
orbicularis oculi muscle. The weight of the skin fold may rotate the lower lid margin inward, creating an entropion.
With growth of the face and nasal bridge, epiblepharon usually diminishes. It is seen more commonly in Asian
eyelids.
Euryblepharon is a rounding or almond-shaped deformity of the lower lid at the lateral canthal angle. It may be
associated with an inferiorly displaced lateral canthal tendon.
Congenital entropion is characterized by an inward turning of the eyelid margin owing to hypertrophy of the
orbicularis muscle, defects in lower lid retractor, or tarsal abnormalities.12
Congenital ectropion is characterized by eversion of the eyelid margin. It is rarely seen in the upper lid. In the
lower lid, it is usually seen with Down syndrome or blepharophimosis syndrome.

Surface Topography
Except for prepuce and that of the labia minor, the skin of the eyelids is the thinnest in the body. It is pliable and
contains relatively little adipose tissue. It is subject to unusual amounts of stress and relaxation with each blink.
Such movement predisposes the paraorbital skin to several natural and dynamic topographic landmarks (Fig.
5.8).13,14,15 The upper lid displays a prominent horizontal crease, the superior palpebral crease. It marks the
upper border of the tarsus, is located about 10 mm above the lid margin in Caucasian women and 7 to 8 mm
above the lid margin in men. It is accented when the lid is raised. It denotes the dividing line between loosely
adherent preseptal skin and that from more adherent pretarsal skin. In the Asian eyelid, the superior palpebral
crease is absent or is displaced inferiorly.

Figure 5.8. Surface topography.

The lower lid displays three creases. The inferior palpebral crease is less noticeable than the superior palpebral
crease and marks the lower border of the lower tarsus. It courses from about 5 mm below the lower lid margin
medially to about 7 mm laterally. The nasojugal crease is located below the medial aspect of the inferior
palpebral crease and extends infralaterally at 45°. The malar crease originates lateral to and below the lateral
canthus. It courses inferomedially until it meets the nasojugal fold 15 mm below the center of the lower eyelid
margin.
The palpebral fissure is the opening between the eyelid margins. The vertical palpebral fissure is normally 9 to
10 mm, whereas the horizontal fissure measures 28 to 30 mm. The upper eyelid rests at the upper limbus in the
child and about 1 to 2 mm below the upper limbus in the adult. The upper and lower lids rest over the anterior
surface of the globe, allowing about 20% of its surface to be exposed in the normal palpebral fissure. The lower
eyelid is generally found at the level of the lower limbus. The upper eyelid is slightly curved, with the highest
point nasal to the pupil. The lowest point of the lower eyelid is slightly temporal to the pupil. The point where the
upper eyelid and the lower eyelid meet medially is known as the medial commissure. The point where the upper
and lower eyelid meet laterally is known as the lateral commissure. The medial canthus and the lateral canthus
are the angles formed at the medial commissure and at the lateral commissure, respectively. The medial and
lateral canthi are dynamic structures that move with horizontal eye movements.16 The lateral canthal angle is
normally more acute than the slightly rounded medial canthal angle. The lateral commissure rests on the globe,
whereas the medial commissure is anteriorly displaced by the caruncle and plica semilunaris.
The superior orbital sulcus is that area between the upper eyelid crease and the superior orbital rim. With age or
after enucleation, a concavity (Fig. 5.9) of the superior sulcus can be seen because of lack of supporting tissue.
Convexity (Fig. 5.10) of the superior sulcus is seen with herniation of orbital fat.

Figure 5.9. Concavity of superior orbital sulcus after enucleation of the right eye.

Figure 5.10. Convexity of superior sulcus from herniated orbital fat.

Langer lines (Fig. 5.11) are present in the upper and lower lids and in the canthal areas. These natural static
skin lines are formed by collagenous, reticular, and elastic fibers in the reticular layer of the dermis. Gravitational
lines (Fig. 5.12) are formed with age by progressive thinning of relaxed skin. In contrast, dynamic lines (Fig. 5.13)
result from repetitious relaxation and contraction of paraorbital muscles. Horizontal forehead furrows show the
lateral extent of the frontalis muscle used to correct chronic physiologic ptosis. The action of the procerus and
corrugator superciliaris muscles create the “frown lines” between the eyebrows.

Figure 5.11. Langer lines (A) as they appear in a diagram and (B) clinically. These static skin lines are formed by
collagenous, reticular, and elastic fibers in the reticular dermis.
Figure 5.12. Gravitational lines formed by progressive thinning of relaxed skin.

Figure 5.13. Dynamic lines. Overaction of the procerus 1 and corrugator superciliaris muscle 2 create these
frown lines in this patient with ocular phemigoid.

The skin of the eyelids is thin. The transition to the thicker skin of the eyebrow above and to the skin of the malar
region below is abrupt. In the preorbital and preseptal skin, subcutaneous fat is sparse. Fat is absent in the
pretarsal skin. Pretarsal skin is firmly adherent to the underlying tarsus because of attachments of the levator
aponeurosis.17 Clinically, edema collects under the loose preorbital and preseptal skin, leaving an identifiable
border at the pretarsal skin where there are denser subcutaneous fibroadipose attachments.

Basic Eyelid Anatomy

Protractors
The orbicularis oculi muscle is a thin sheet of concentrically arranged muscle fibers covering the eyelids and
periorbital region (Fig. 5.14). It is oval, with the long axis being horizontal, corresponding to the palpebral
opening. Contraction of the orbicularis oculi muscle results in the protraction or closure of the eyelid. The
orbicularis is firmly attached to the underlying lateral palpebral raphe, the medial canthal region, the insertions of
the upper and lower eyelid retractors, the supraorbital ridge, the naso-orbital valley and the malar crease.
Jones14,18 divided the orbicularis oculi muscle into three regions: orbital, preseptal, and pretarsal.
Figure 5.14. Orbicularis oculi muscle, cadaver dissection. (A) Orbital portion; (B) preseptal portion; (C) pretarsal
portion.

The broad orbital orbicularis portion extends superiorly to the eyebrow, where it interdigitates with the frontalis
and the corrugator superciliaris muscles (Fig. 5.15). Medially, it extends from the supraorbital notch in a
curvilinear fashion over the side of the nose, inferiorly to the infraorbital foramen. It continues along the
infraorbital margin. Laterally, it extends to the temporalis muscle. These thick course fibers play an important role
in voluntary lid closure (winking) and forced eyelid closure.

Figure 5.15. Corrugator superciliaris muscle. It originates (thin arrow) on the frontal bone at the supraorbital rim
and interdigitates with the frontalis muscle subcutaneously (thick arrow) in the region of the nasal aspect of the
eyebrow.

The preseptal orbicularis overlies the orbital septum. In between is a fibroadipose layer, which is continuous
superiorly with the eyebrow fat pad. If this postorbicularis layer contains a significant amount of fat, the ptosis
surgeon may misinterpret it as being preaponeurotic fat. Laterally, the preseptal orbicularis muscle inserts
directly onto the Whitnall lateral orbital tubercle 3 to 4 mm deep to the lateral palpebral raphe. Because of the
fibrous component of this lateral attachment, Jones misleadingly termed this the lateral canthal tendon rather
than the lateral canthal ligament.14,18 Medially, the insertions of the preseptal orbicularis are complicated by the
lacrimal sac, its fascia, and the lacrimal crests. The medial origin of the preseptal orbicularis is thought to arise
from two heads—the deep and the superficial heads. The deep head or Jones muscle18,19 is adherent to the
lacrimal sac and lacrimal fascia, whereas the anterior or superficial head arises from the anterior rim of the
medial canthal ligament (Fig. 5.16). Functionally, the preseptal fibers contribute to voluntary lid closure (winking)
and involuntary lid closure (blinking).
Figure 5.16. Medial attachments of the orbicularis oculi muscle.

The pretarsal orbicularis is firmly adherent to the underlying tarsus and to the superficial insertion of the levator
aponeurosis at the superior tarsal border. The medial origin of the pretarsal orbicularis is thought to arise from
two heads—the deep and the superficial heads. The deep head, the Horner tensor tarsi muscle,20,21 arises from
4 mm behind the posterior lacrimal crest and from the lacrimal fascia to insert medially on the tarsi of the upper
and lower eyelids. Its contraction pulls the eyelid medially and posteriorly, allowing the eyelids to follow and
cover the convex globe. In addition, its lateral contraction on the lacrimal diaphragm creates a negative pressure
in the lacrimal sac that draws tears from the canaliculi. The superficial head of the pretarsal orbicularis inserts on
the anterior lacrimal crest and anterior limb of the medial canthal ligament. Superficial fibers also surround the
canaliculi. Contraction shortens the canaliculi, forcing lacrimal fluid into the lacrimal sac. Functionally, involuntary
lid closure (blinking) is primarily the responsibility of the smaller pretarsal orbicularis fibers.
Medially, both Horner and Jones muscles are essential for proper functioning of the lacrimal pump. The deep
fibers medially and posteriorly are responsible for proper eyelid-to-globe apposition. Laterally, the orbital and
preseptal fibers fuse over the zygoma to form the lateral palpebral raphe. The deep fibers of the pretarsal
orbicularis join the inferior and superior crux of the lateral canthal ligament, which inserts 3 to 4 mm posterior to
the lateral orbital rim on the Whitnall tubercle.22 It is these latter posteriorly oriented attachments that are
responsible for proper eyelid-to-globe apposition and not the more superficial fibers.

Orbital Septum
Upper Eyelid
Historically, the orbital septum has been considered as a discreet, well-defined structure arising from the arcus
marginalis. The arcus marginalis is a discrete line seen at the supraorbital rim, representing the condensation of
the periosteum of the forehead with the periorbita of the orbit. Alternatively, the orbital septum may be considered
the deep fascia of the overlying orbicularis oculi muscle.14 Others23,24 describe a loose fibrous connective tissue
anterior to the orbital septum and refer to it as the suborbicularis fascia. The orbital septum (Fig. 5.17) actually is
a multilayered structure.25 Fibrous septa within the submuscular fibroadipose tissue become contiguous with
more compact lamellae of the orbital septum, imparting a multilayered quality to the orbital septum. Fat within the
fibroadipose layer anterior to the orbital septum may be mistaken for the preaponeurotic fat pad during eyelid
surgery.26
Figure 5.17. With the skin and orbicularis oculi muscle incised and retracted, the multilayered orbital septum is
being cut in this cadaver.

The orbital septum and the levator aponeurosis (Fig. 5.18) join 2 to 5 mm above the superior tarsal border. The
orbital septum directly adjoins the posterior epimysium of the orbicularis for about 1 to 5 mm before joining the
levator aponeurosis. The cross-sectional thickness of the orbital septum through its parallel lamella varies but is
less than 1 mm. It is thickest at the arcus marginalis laterally and is thinnest in the lower lid medially. Medially,
posterior orbital septal lamella are carried posteriorly by the pretarsal orbicularis muscle, which inserts on the
posterior lacrimal crest. Superficial orbital septal fibers, as described by Whitnall,14 appear to cross and adhere
to the lacrimal fascia before reaching the anterior lacrimal crest. At the lateral canthus, the orbital septum is also
split; deep fibers insert at the Whitnall tubercle, whereas superficial fibers join at the lateral canthal raphe, just
deep to the orbicularis muscle.25

Figure 5.18. Cross section of the upper eyelid.

Variation in septal strength is seen between individuals and varies with age. Clinically, weakness of the septum
explains the medial upper lid bulge (bourrelet senile) seen in older patients and caused by herniation of the
medial fat pad through an attenuated septum (Fig. 5.10).28 It also may explain the high incidence of orbital
invasion of basal cell carcinoma in the medial canthal region.29

Lower Eyelid
In the lower eyelid, the orbital septum (Fig. 5.19) arises from the inferior orbital rim as a condensation of the
periosteum and the periorbita. It continues anteriorly and superiorly to a point 4 to 5 mm below the inferior tarsus,
where it joins with the lower eyelid retractors and as a single structure inserts on the lower border of the inferior
tarsus.25,30 Medially, the orbital septum splits and is carried posteriorly by the pretarsal orbicularis muscle
(Horner muscle) and attaches to the posterior lacrimal crest. Laterally, the orbital septum also splits and is
carried deep by the insertion of the orbicularis.

Figure 5.19. Cross section of the lower eyelid.

The orbital septa of the upper and lower eyelids form an anatomic barrier between the preseptal and orbital
structures. Infectious processes anterior to the septa are considered to be more benign than those posterior to
the septa. Functionally, the suborbicularis oculi fibroadipose layer and the multilayered orbital septum change
with movement, enhancing eyelid and eyebrow mobility.14,25

Fat Pads
Fat within the orbit and adnexa serve as a protective cushion within which the eyeball moves. Fat within the
muscle cone is termed central or conal. Fat outside the muscle cone is termed peripheral or extraconal.

Upper Eyelid
In the upper eyelid, there are two specific fat pads: the medial fat pad and the central fat pad (Figs. 5.20, 5.21).
The whitish medial fat pad is more fibrous, whereas the larger central fat pad is more yellow because of a
decreased amount of fibrous tissue. The larger central fat pad is termed the preaponeurotic fat pad. The trochlea
separates the two fat pads.31 Clinically, the preaponeurotic fat pad lies directly on the surface of the muscular
portion of the levator and serves as an important surgical landmark to the levator aponeurosis immediately
beneath it. The medial fat pad often herniates through a weakened orbital septum, creating a bulge beneath the
trochlea. The preaponeurotic fat is surrounded by a thin translucent connective tissue capsule. Fine connective
tissue septa extend anteriorly from the capsule of the preaponeurotic fat to the orbital septum and posteriorly to
the levator aponeurosis.25 Clinically, these connections are easily broken by blunt dissection, exposing an
encapsulated preaponeurotic fat pad. Connective tissue septa also exists within the preaponeurotic fat, dividing
it into lobules. Although the preaponeurotic fat pad is contiguous with deeper orbital fat, these connections are
more rudimentary than the medial and lower eyelid fat pads. The preaponeurotic fat pad is less vascular than the
other fat pads. Conversely, the medial fat pad is more vascular because of the location of the palpebral arterial
arcade, which serpiginously courses through this pad.32,33 The medial fat pad can be approached
transconjunctivally for the treatment of isolated herniated medial orbital fat in nestetic eyelid surgery.34 The
medial fat pad is separated from the preaponeurotic fat pad by delicate fibrous septal attachments to the
trochlea.

Figure 5.20. Fat pads of the upper and lower eyelids.

Figure 5.21. Cadaver dissection, eyelid fat pads.

Lateral to the preaponeurotic fat pad lies the lacrimal gland (Fig. 5.22), which is typically pinker in appearance,
firmer in texture, and distinctly more vascular than the preaponeurotic fat pad.31 During removal of orbital fat, the
eyelid surgeon is careful to avoid injury to the laterally located lacrimal gland.
Figure 5.22. With the skin and orbicularis muscle removed, the anterior edge of the orbital lobe of the lacrimal
gland (pointer) is seen. Also seen are the preaponeurotic fat pad (A), levator muscle and Whitnall ligament (B),
and the inferiorly reflected orbital septum (C), detached from the supraorbital rim but attached to the levator
aponeurosis.

Lower Eyelid
In the lower eyelid, there exists a smaller temporal fat pad and a larger medial fat pad (Figs. 5.20 and 5.21). The
temporal fat pad lies inferior to the lateral canthus. It is separated from the larger medial fat pad by a fibrous
extension from the periorbita and orbital septum infralaterally, joining with the capsulopalpebral fascia and
Lockwood ligament.31,36
The medial pad extends from the fascial band to the medial canthal area. It is a single pad anteriorly but
posteriorly is divided by the origin of the inferior oblique muscle (Fig. 5.23). With this subdivision of the larger
medial fat pad of the lower lid, some surgeons consider the lower lid to have three fat pads.16,36

Figure 5.23. Fat pads of the lower lid. This cadaver dissection demonstrates the posterior division of the large
medial fat pad by the inferior oblique muscle (pointer).

The lower eyelid fat pads are in direct communication with the deeper extraconal fat of the orbit. Clinically, this is
important during lower eyelid surgery because excessive traction may be transmitted deeper into the orbit,
resulting in intraoperative or postoperative orbital hemorrhage.32,37 During transconjunctival lower eyelid
blepharoplasty, the lateral eyelid fat pad tends to be more fibrotic and prolapses less easily. Care is also taken to
avoid the inferior oblique muscle, which originates just lateral to the ostium of the nasolacrimal canal.

Retractors
Each eyelid contains two retractors, which open the palpebral fissures. In the upper lid, they are the levator
palpebrae superioris muscle and the sympathetically innervated muscle of Müller. In the lower lid, they are the
capsulopalpebral fascia and the sympathetically innervated inferior tarsal muscle.

Upper Eyelid
In the upper lid, the major retractor is the levator palpebrae superioris. It arises from the same superior
mesenchyme as the superior rectus muscle. At the orbital apex, the levator originates from the lesser wing of the
sphenoid bone, superolateral to the optic foramen. Immediately below originates the superior rectus muscle
arising from the annulus of Zinn.14,38 As the triangular levator muscle courses anteriorly in the orbit from its
origin, it is composed of striated muscle. The average length of the muscular portion of the levator is 36 mm.31,38
At the level of the globe, the levator muscle fans out and thins as the whitish gray superior transverse ligament of
Whitnall or the Whitnall ligament. It represents a transition zone where the horizontal levator muscle becomes
more fibrous, forming the more vertical levator aponeurosis. The aponeurosis measures 18 mm in width. The
Whitnall ligament is located 14 to 20 mm above the superior border of the tarsus. The medial attachment of the
Whitnall ligament is to the fascia of the trochlea, whereas the lateral attachment of the Whitnall ligament is at the
frontozygomatic suture (Fig. 5.24)

Figure 5.24. Whitnall ligament. Its medial attachment is to the fascia of the trochlea. The major lateral attachment
is to the frontozygomatic suture, with minor attachments to the lateral orbital tubercle.

Anteriorly, the aponeurosis expands horizontally to insert onto the medial and lateral retinacula as the “horns” of
the levator. The medial horn of the levator attaches to the medial canthal ligament. Its attachment is looser and
more ill-defined than the lateral attachment.26,39 The lateral horn of the levators splits the lacrimal gland into the
larger orbital lobe and the smaller palpebral lobe (Fig. 5.25). It then attaches to the lateral orbital tubercle by the
lateral canthal tendon and may provide suspensory support for the gland.26,28 The levator palpebral aponeurosis
continues anteriorly to a point 2 to 5 mm above the superior tarsal border, where it joins with fibers of the
multilayered orbital septum (Fig. 5.17). The thin fibrous connections between these two structures is somewhat
rounded and convex. Below this point, at the level of the superior tarsal border, the fused lamellae of the orbital
septum and the levator aponeurosis send connective tissue attachments to secondarily insert onto the overlying
orbicularis oculi muscle and subcutaneous tissue.25 These attachments result in a sharp upper eyelid crease.
Variations in these attachments result in variations in the location of the upper eyelid crease. Lower attachments
and increased preaponeurosis fat account for a lower or absent Asian lid crease with the tendency of eyelid skin
to cover the eyelash root.40 The levator aponeurosis then sends connective tissue attachments, which insert
primarily on the anterior inferior third of the superior tarsus, with the strongest attachments 3 mm from the lid
margin.28,38 It is these tarsal attachments that are more important for proper upper eyelid function.26

Figure 5.25. The lateral horn of levator aponeurosis. With the lateral wall and roof of the orbit removed, the
levator aponeurosis (wide arrow) is seen dividing the lacrimal gland into the larger orbital lobe (thin arrow) and
smaller palpebral lobe (pointer).

The levator muscle and the superior rectus muscle are joined along their medial borders by fibrous attachments
that become stronger anteriorly. A dense intermuscular fascia connects the undersurface of the levator
aponeurosis with the superior surface of the superior rectus muscle just posterior to the level of the Whitnall
ligament. From the anterior surface of this intermuscular membrane, the superior conjunctival fornix suspensory
ligament (Fig. 5.18) arises.41,42 Anterior to this point, the Müller muscle takes its origin from the underside of the
levator muscle 22 mm above the superior tarsal border.31 The motor innervation of the levator muscle is the
superior division of the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III). After entering the orbit through the supraorbital
fissure and through the annulus of Zinn, the superior division of the oculomotor nerve then passes around the
medial border of the superior rectus muscle or directly through the superior rectus muscle to enter the
undersurface of the levator muscle at its posterior third and anterior two thirds junction.
The other retractor of the upper eyelid is the Müller muscle, also known as the superior tarsal muscle (Figs. 5.18
and 5.26). The Müller muscle is a smooth muscle arising from the underside of the levator muscle, just below the
level of the Whitnall ligament, 22 mm above the superior tarsal border. It inserts on the superior tarsal border.
Superiorly, the Müller muscle is loosely adherent to the conjunctiva but becomes more adherent near the tarsus.
Sympathetic nerve fibers innervating the muscle are thought to enter by the peripheral arterial arcade and other
small arteries.26,31 Clinically, increased sympathetic stimulation (as seen in Graves disease) is thought to be a
factor in thyroid eyelid retraction (Fig. 5.27)

Figure 5.26. Müller muscle. A 10-mm strip of Müller muscle is preserved in this cadaver to demonstrate its origin
from the underside of the reflected levator muscle (thick arrow) and its insertion onto the superior edge of the
tarsus. The tarsus is seen with the vertically oriented meibomian glands (thin arrow).

Figure 5.27. Thyroid lid retraction. Sympathetic stimulation of Müller muscle and the inferior tarsal muscle is a
factor in this patient with Graves disease.

Lower Eyelid
Posterior to the globe, a fibrous extension arises from the inferior rectus muscle. These extensions are
collectively termed the capsulopalpebral head of the inferior rectus muscle. The capsulopalpebral head splits to
surround the inferior oblique muscle. The external portion is termed the capsulopalpebral fascia, whereas the
inner counterpart that contains smooth muscle is termed the inferior tarsal muscle. The two layers fuse anterior
to the inferior oblique muscle to form a dense fibrous structure termed the Lockwood suspensory ligament (Fig.
5.28)of the globe.30,41 This ligament suspends the globe position within the orbit, even if all bone inferior to its
attachments at the medial and lateral orbital walls are removed. The outer fibers of the capsulopalpebral fascia
fuse with the inner fibers of the inferior orbital septum 4 to 5 mm below the inferior tarsus and together advance
as a single layer to insert on the inferior border of the inferior tarsus (Fig. 5.19).30,43 Although more rudimentary
in their development, the capsulopalpebral fascia and the inferior tarsal muscle are analogous to the levator
aponeurosis and the superior tarsal muscle of the upper eyelid.

Figure 5.28. Lockwood suspensory ligament. With the skin and orbicularis removed and the inferior orbital
septum (A) detached from the inferior orbital rim and reflected superiorly, the Lockwood ligament is seen (arrow).
Also seen are the medial fat pad (B) and temporal fat pad (C) of a left lower lid.

The capsulopalpebral fascia has no inherent innervation, but its action mirrors the action of the inferior rectus
muscle, which is innervated by the inferior division of the oculomotor nerve. Depression of the lower eyelid in
downgaze is less than the movement of the globe in downgaze. Magnetic resonance imaging studies44 have
shown that this discrepancy is owing to stretching of the capsulopalpebral head posterior to the inferior oblique
muscle, whereas the length of the anterior portion of the capsulopalpebral fascia (between the Lockwood
ligament and the tarsus) remain constant.
In the lower eyelid, the more rudimentary inferior tarsal muscle arises from the inner surface of the
capsulopalpebral head as it splits to surround the inferior oblique muscle. The inferior tarsal muscle consists of
numerous discontinuous smooth muscle bundles and becomes totally fibrous as the inferior tarsus is
approached.30 The inferior tarsal muscle is adherent to both the overlying capsulopalpebral fascia and to the
underlying conjunctiva. The adherence of the capsulopalpebral fascia to the inferior tarsal muscle is stronger
than the adherence of the inferior tarsal muscle to the conjunctiva. Thus, the capsulopalpebral fascia and the
inferior tarsal muscle are often grouped together and termed “the lower lid retractors,” which during lower eyelid
surgery are treated as one anatomic unit.
The inferior tarsal muscle is sympathetically innervated. Clinically, in Horners syndrome, the atonic muscle may
allow the lower eyelid to elevate as much as 1 mm. Conversely, in thyroid eye disease, the lower eyelid may
retract from increased sympathetic tone.

Tarsal Plates
The tarsal plates are thickened fibrous connective tissue that provide structural support to the eyelids. Medially
and laterally, the tarsal plates are connected to the bony orbital margins by ligamentous fibrous tissue (Fig.
5.29).45

Figure 5.29. The upper and lower tarsal plates.

Upper Eyelid
The superior tarsal plate is 10 mm in vertical height and 25 to 30 mm in horizontal dimension. The border nearest
the eyelid margin is flat, whereas the antimarginal border is curved with its largest vertical dimension centrally.
From their central portion, each tarsal plate tapers toward the canthal ligaments. Within each superior tarsus lies
30 to 40 vertically oriented sebaceous secreting glands, the meibomian glands, which produce the outer lipid
portion of the tear film. The orifices of the meibomian glands are located at the eyelid margin just anterior to the
mucocutaneous junction.
Lower Eyelid
The inferior tarsal plate is 3 to 5 mm in vertical height and measures 25 to 30 mm horizontally.46 The lower
tarsus also tapers medially and laterally. Within each lower tarsus, there are 20 to 30 vertically oriented
meibomian glands whose orifices are located anterior to the mucocutaneous junction of the lower eyelid.
The tarsi span the anterior orbital opening while articulating with the globe. With eyes closed, the lower eyelid
covers a smaller area of the globe surface than does its upper eyelid counterpart. The posterior surface of both
the tarsal plates is covered by conjunctiva.

Conjunctiva
Embryologically, the conjunctiva represents the differentiated inner portion of the skin fold that forms the eyelid. It
is composed of nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium with goblet cells. The goblet cells produce mucous
for the inner layer of the tear film. The conjunctiva has two components: the bulbar conjunctiva, which lines the
globe extending to the corneal limbus, and the palpebral conjunctiva, which lines the eyelid. These two
conjunctival components meet at the conjunctival fornices. The superior conjunctival fornix is stabilized by the
suspensory ligament of the superior fornix, which arises from the conjoining of the levator and the superior rectus
muscles.42 The inferior conjunctival fornix is stabilized by the inferior suspensory ligament, which arises from the
inferior rectus extensions that sheath the inferior oblique muscle. The superior fornix is located 13 mm from the
open eyelid margin and 25 mm from the closed eyelid margin. The inferior fornix, however, is located 9 to 10 mm
from the open or closed lower eyelid margin because the lower eyelid does not elevate significantly with eyelid
closure.
The bulbar conjunctiva is loosely attached to the globe, except at the limbus where it is tightly bound at the
episclera. Similarly, the palpebral conjunctiva is loosely adherent, except at the tarsus and at the superior tarsal
muscle where it is tightly adherent. In the lower eyelid, the conjunctiva is adherent to the lower tarsus but can be
elevated from the lower eyelid retractors without difficulty. The conjunctival fornices are also stabilized by
attachments medially and laterally to the canthal tendon.14,47

In addition to goblet cells, the conjunctiva also contains the accessory lacrimal glands.48 The glands of Wolfring
are located along the antimarginal border of the tarsal plate, whereas Krause glands are found in the
conjunctival fornices. These glands are known as the basic tear secretors because they provide the middle
aqueous layer of the tear film at a constant basal rate. The main lacrimal gland, however, is a reflex secretor,
providing additional aqueous fluid for the middle layer of the tear film on a reflex basis (ocular irritation or
emotion). The orifices of the lacrimal gland ducts are located 4 to 5 mm superior and lateral to the upper edge of
the upper tarsus.
Medially, the conjunctiva forms the semilunar fold, a vestige of the nictitating membrane of some animals. The
caruncle is a small collection of transitional tissue at the medial commissure that has multiple sebaceous glands.

Special Considerations
Suspensory System of the Eyelids
Five anatomic structures provide support and mechanical function to the eyelid and eyeball: the Whitnall
ligament, the Lockwood ligament, the lateral canthal ligament, the medial canthal ligament, and the eyelid
margin.

Whitnall Ligament
The superior transverse ligament of Whitnall provides the dual function of acting as the main suspensory
ligament of the upper eyelid and as a check ligament for the levator aponeurosis and levator muscle.26,49,50 It
also gives superior conjunctival fornix suspension.38,42 The suspensory role and fulcrum effect of the Whitnall
ligament is assisted by the curvature of the globe, which also provides a fulcrum and support for the levator.38
The Whitnall ligament is suspended from the periorbita of the orbital roof, extending medially from the trochlea
across the horizontal dimension of the orbit to the frontozygomatic suture, 10 mm superior to the lateral orbital
tubercle (Whitnall orbital tubercle). Laterally, it sends weaker attachments to the Whitnall tubercle, but the most
significant lateral attachment site of the Whitnall ligament is at the frontozygomatic suture (Fig. 5.24). The
Whitnall ligament is found 15 to 20 mm superior to the superior border of the tarsus as a white, shiny, glistening
structure where the levator muscle becomes an aponeurosis.
Clinically, this is an important structure encountered frequently during eyelid surgery.

Lockwood Ligament
The Lockwood ligament in the lower eyelid is more rudimentary than the Whitnall ligament in the upper eyelid,
but it acts as a suspensory hammock for the globe.40 It also serves as an anchor for the inferior conjunctival
fornix. The Lockwood ligament is a condensation of the capsulopalpebral fascia anterior to the inferior oblique
muscle.30 It is composed of thickened Tenon capsule, intramuscular septa, check ligaments, fibers from the
inferior rectus sheath, and lower lid retractors. Medially, it attaches to the medial canthal ligament and laterally to
the lateral canthal ligament.

Lateral Canthal Ligament

Often called the lateral canthal tendon, the lateral canthal ligament is composed of a superior crux from the
superior tarsus and an inferior crux from the inferior tarsus. The superior and inferior crux of the lateral canthal
tendons fuse at the lateral border of the tarsal plates to join the lateral retinaculum, a condensation of several
anatomic structures that inserts onto the lateral orbital tubercle of Whitnall. This tubercle is located 2 to 4 mm
posterior to the lateral orbital rim, 10 to 12 mm inferior to the frontozygomatic suture, and at the level of the lateral
commissure.45 The lateral retinaculum consists of fibers from the lateral horn of the levator aponeurosis,
Lockwood ligament, check ligaments of the lateral rectus muscle, fibers of the suspensory ligaments of the
lacrimal gland, and some deep fibers of the pretarsal orbicularis oculi muscle. In the space between the lateral
retinaculum and the more anteriorly placed orbital septum is sometimes found a small fat pad, the Eisler pocket23
(Fig. 5.30).

Figure 5.30. Eisler fat pocket. With the skin and orbicularis removed, the Eisler fat pocket (arrow) is seen
between the superior and inferior crux of the lateral canthal tendons (in muscle hook).

The lateral canthal ligament is a clinically important anatomic structure. The inferior and superior crux of the
lateral canthal ligament must be released from the tarsal plates during a lateral canthotomy or cantholysis to
decompress the orbit and to lower intraorbital pressure.

Medial Canthal Ligament

The medial canthal ligament, often called the medial canthal tendon, provides support to the eyelids and aids in
the function of the lacrimal pump.19 The medial canthal ligament has two components—an anterior limb and a
posterior limb. The anterior limb (Fig. 5.31) is a broad fibrous structure that attaches the eyelids to the frontal
process of the maxillary bone and to the anterior lacrimal crest. It gives origin to the superficial head of the
pretarsal orbicularis oculi muscle. The posterior limb of the medial canthal ligament inserts on the posterior
lacrimal crest and the lacrimal fascia. It is weaker than the anterior limb but with the deep heads of the pretarsal
and preseptal orbicularis muscle draws the medial portion of the eyelids posteriorly to follow the vector forces
necessary for good medial apposition of the eyelids to the globe.35

Figure 5.31. Anterior limb of medial canthal ligament. In this cadaver dissection, the anterior limb of the medial
canthal ligament (arrow) is seen originating from the frontal process of the maxillary bone (pointer). Forceps
reflect the medial aspect of the eyelid.

Eyelid Margin
The eyelid margins are divided by the lacrimal puncta into a medial lacrimal portion and a lateral palpebral
portion. At the lid margin near the medial edge of the tarsus, the lacrimal papilla is seen as the fibrous ring
surrounding the lacrimal punctum. The medial lacrimal portion is rounded and without lashes. It carries the
horizontal portion of the canaliculi 1 to 2 mm from the marginal surface. The upper punctum is located at the
junction of the medial one sixth and the lateral five sixths of each eyelid. The lower punctum is located slightly
more laterally than the upper punctum. The longer lower canaliculus (10 mm) is directed into the lacrimal lake
lateral to the plica semilunaris, whereas the shorter superior canaliculus (8 mm) is directed between the plica
semilunaris and the caruncle. The canaliculi are surrounded by thick pretarsal orbicularis oculi muscle fibers.
Posterior and horizontal contraction slightly inverts the medial eyelid margin.
The lateral portion of the lid margin has a more distinct or sharp border, which acts as a squeegee or windshield
wiper to assist in moving the tear film toward the punctum.
At the level of the tarsus, both the upper and lower eyelids consist of four anatomic structures: the skin, the
orbicularis oculi muscle, the tarsus, and the conjunctiva. At the eyelid margin, the eyelids are arbitrarily divided
into an anterior lamella, consisting of the skin and orbicularis oculi muscle, and a posterior lamella, consisting of
the tarsus and conjunctiva. This distinction is only approximate because fibrous elements from the tarsus extend
anteriorly, hair follicles may extend posteriorly to imbed in the tarsus, and fine interdigitations of the eyelid
retractors may be found. The skin of the anterior lamella contains 100 to 120 cilia in the upper eyelid and 50 to
75 in the lower eyelid. The eyelashes of Asian females are thicker and straighter than those of Caucasian
females.40 Each ciliary follicle also contains about two sebaceous glands (glands of Zeis). Near the cilia lie the
sweat glands of the eyelid (Moll glands), which empty into the adjacent follicles. A strip of pretarsal orbicularis
oculi muscle, isolated from the remainder of the orbicularis muscle by the eyelash follicles, is known as the ciliary
bundle of Riolan or Riolan muscle. This strip of muscle deep within the eyelid skin creates an optical (Tyndall)
effect known as the gray line (Fig. 5.32).51 The mucocutaneous junction at the eyelid margin is found posterior to
the gray line. In the posterior lamella, the orifices of the meibomian glands are seen exiting the tarsus. Division of
the eyelid margin into an anterior and posterior lamella has practical implications when considering eyelid
malpositions and eyelid reconstruction.

Figure 5.32. Lid margin.

Vascular and Lymphatic Supply to the Eyelids

Arterial System
The eyelids receive a rich and anastomotic supply of blood from the internal carotid system (the deep or
intraorbital system) and the external carotid system (the superficial or facial system).

Deep Arterial System

At the orbital apex, the ophthalmic artery—a branch of the internal carotid artery—lies lateral to the optic nerve.
As the ophthalmic artery passes over the optic nerve and supramedially within the orbit, four terminal branches
pierce the orbital septum to supply the upper eyelid (Fig. 5.33). The four named branches are the lacrimal artery,
the supraorbital artery, the supratrochlear (frontal) artery, and the dorsal nasal artery.

Figure 5.33. Deep arterial circulation of the eyelid.

The lacrimal artery is the most temporal branch and runs forward along the upper border of the lateral rectus
muscle with the lacrimal nerve to supply blood to the lacrimal gland, the conjunctiva, and the lateral aspect of the
upper eyelids.52 The lacrimal artery terminates as the lateral palpebral artery.
The supraorbital artery arises from the ophthalmic artery as it courses over the optic nerve. The supraorbital
artery travels forward in the orbit between the levator muscle and the periorbita of the orbital roof. It accompanies
the supraorbital nerve through the supraorbital foramen to supply blood to the upper eyelid, scalp, forehead,
levator muscle, periorbita, and diploe of the frontal bone.
The supratrochlear (frontal) artery accompanies the supratrochlear nerve to supply arterial blood to the skin of
the superior medial aspect of the orbit, the forehead, and the scalp.
The ophthalmic artery continues dorsally and nasally within the orbit to terminate as the fourth branch, which
pierces the orbital septum and is known as the dorsal nasal artery. It supplies the skin of the bridge of the nose
and the lacrimal sac. It terminates as the medial palpebral artery.
The medial palpebral artery and the lateral palpebral artery richly anastomose to form two well-defined arterial
arcades in each upper eyelid—the marginal palpebral arcade and the peripheral palpebral arcade. The marginal
palpebral arcade lies on the anterior tarsal surface 2 to 3 mm from the eyelid margin. The peripheral palpebral
arcade parallels superior to the superior border of the tarsus, posterior to the levator aponeurosis, and anterior to
the Müller muscle (Fig. 5.34). Medially vascular arcades have a serpiginous course through the medial fat pads
of the upper eyelid, which may result in bleeding if incised during eyelid surgery.33 The deep peripheral
palpebral arcade supplies the superior conjunctival fornix and anastomoses with the anterior ciliary arteries near
the corneal scleral limbus.

Figure 5.34. Peripheral arcade of the upper lid. With the levator reflected in the forceps, the peripheral arterial
arcade (thin arrow) is seen superior to the tarsus (thick arrow).

In the lower eyelid, a well-developed marginal arcade is found anterior to the tarsus, 2 to 3 mm from the eyelid
margin. The peripheral arcade is less well developed.14,53 These arcades arise in the lower lid, as in the upper
lid, from the medial palpebral branches and from the lateral palpebral branches. They also receive lateral
anastomoses from the zygomatico-orbital branch of the superficial temporal artery.

Superficial Arterial System

The facial system (Fig. 5.35) is derived from the external carotid artery and gives off three branches that
eventually supply the eyelid—the facial artery, the superficial temporal artery, and the infraorbital artery.
Figure 5.35. Superficial arterial supply.

The facial artery crosses over the mandible anterior to the masseter muscle and courses diagonally to the
nasolabial fold. It courses between the levator labii superioris muscle and levator alae nasi muscle to become the
angular artery. (Fig. 5.36) The angular artery lies within the orbicularis oculi muscle 6 to 8 mm medial to the
medial canthus and 5 mm anterior to the lacrimal sac. The angular artery perforates the orbital septum above the
medial canthal ligament to anastomose with the dorsal nasal branch of the ophthalmic artery.

Figure 5.36. Angular artery. With the skin removed, the angular artery (arrow) is seen between the levator alae
nasi muscle (A) and the levator labii superioris muscle (B).

The superficial temporal artery is a terminal branch of the external carotid, which courses posterior to the angle
of the jaw and in front of the ear. It lies beneath the skin but superficial to the fascia of the temporalis muscle.31
The superficial temporal artery gives off three branches to supply the eyelids—the frontal branch, which courses
upward across the temple to supply the frontalis muscle of the forehead and the orbicularis oculi muscle
anastomosing with the lacrimal and supraorbital arteries; the zygomatico-orbital branch, which courses along the
upper border of the zygoma supplying the upper eyelid and anterior orbit; and the transverse facial branch, which
runs below the zygoma to supply the malar region and the lateral aspect of the lower eyelid to anastomoses with
the lacrimal and infraorbital arteries.
The infraorbital artery enters the orbit through the pterygopalatine fossa and passes through the posterior end of
the infraorbital fissure, through the infraorbital canal, and exits the orbit through the infraorbital foramen to give a
rich contribution of arterial blood to the lower eyelid. The infraorbital artery is a branch of the internal maxillary
artery.

Venous System
Like the arterial system, the venous system has both a superficial and a deep distribution. The superficial system
consists of the angular vein, the anterior facial vein, and the superficial temporal vein. Branches of the deep
venous system involving the eyelids consist of the superior ophthalmic vein and the inferior ophthalmic vein.

Superficial Venous System

The angular vein is formed by the junction of the superficial frontal vein from the forehead and the deep
supraorbital vein from the orbit. The angular vein is located about 8 mm medial to the inner canthus and lies
lateral to its artery deep in the skin (Fig. 5.37). Venous blood from the angular vein has a dual drainage:
posteriorly into the deep venous system by the superior ophthalmic vein or superficially and inferiorly into the
anterior facial vein. The anterior facial vein crosses the mandible and joins the posterior facial vein to form the
common facial vein, which then drains into the internal jugular vein. Superiorly and laterally, venous blood from
the forehead, eyebrow, and eyelid drain from the supraorbital vein into the superficial temporal vein, then pass in
front of the ear to drain into the external jugular vein.14,31,54

Figure 5.37. Superficial venous system.

Deep Venous System

The supraorbital vein drains the forehead, eyebrow, and upper eyelid and runs horizontally deep to the
orbicularis oculi muscle to course medially into the frontal vein and then into the superior ophthalmic vein. The
superior ophthalmic vein is formed at the supranasal aspect of the orbit by the union of the angular and
supraorbital veins. It travels posterolaterally into the orbit, penetrates the muscle cone in the midorbit, and
receives venous drainage from the superior vortex veins of the globe. It then leaves the orbit near the annulus of
Zinn by the superior orbital fissure to enter the cavernous sinus. When present, the inferior ophthalmic vein
begins as a plexus near the anterior aspect of the orbital floor. It receives venous blood from the lower eyelid,
lacrimal sac, inferior rectus muscle, inferior oblique, and the two inferior vortex veins. It courses posteriorly to
divide into two branches: a smaller branch to the pterygoid plexus by the inferior orbital fissure and a larger
branch into the superior ophthalmic vein to enter the cavernous sinus. Occasionally, a larger branch may drain
directly into the cavernous sinus.
Other branches of the deep orbital system include the central retinal vein, the anterior ciliary veins, and the
cavernous sinuses.

Lymphatic System to the Eyelids

The lymphatic system of the eyelids has two divisions: a superficial system and a deep system.14,54 The
superficial system drains the skin and orbicularis oculi muscle, whereas the deep system drains the tarsi and the
conjunctiva. Most of the upper eyelid, lateral third of the lower eyelid, and lateral canthus drain into the
preauricular and deep parotid nodes (Fig. 5.38). They eventually empty into the deep cervical nodes near the
internal jugular vein. The medial portion of the upper eyelids, the medial canthus, and the medial two thirds of the
lower lid and conjunctiva drain into the submandibular nodes by channels following the angular and facial veins.
Lymph drainage eventually empties into the internal jugular vein.

Figure 5.38. Facial lymphatic system.

Nerve Supply to the Eyelids
Of the twelve cranial nerves (CN), three involve the eyelids: the oculomotor nerve (CN III), the trigeminal (CN V),
and the facial nerve (CN VII). In addition, the eyelids receive sympathetic innervation.

Oculomotor Nerve
The oculomotor nerve (CN III) emerges from the base of the midbrain medial to the cerebral peduncles and
passes between the superior cerebellar artery and the posterior cerebral artery. It then passes into the
interpeduncular fossa and courses medial to the tentorial notch to lie inferior to the optic tract. It enters the
middle cranial fossa to pass lateral to the anterior clinoid process and pierces the dura to lie in the lateral wall of
the cavernous sinus. Here it divides into the superior and inferior divisions before entering the orbit through the
superior orbital fissure. Both divisions enter the orbit within the annulus of Zinn.47,55
The superior division of the oculomotor nerve courses 1.5 cm anterior to the annulus of Zinn, where it innervates
the superior rectus muscle. The nerve courses medial to the superior rectus muscle, where it continues to
innervate the levator palpebral superioris muscle. Infrequently, the nerve passes directly through the superior
rectus muscle to innervate the levator muscle.
The inferior division of the oculomotor nerve courses beneath the optic nerve and sends branches to the medial
rectus, the inferior rectus muscles, and the inferior oblique muscles. The inferior division courses along the
lateral side of the inferior rectus muscle, giving off a vertically directed parasympathetic twig to the ciliary
ganglion. The large terminal branch of the inferior division continues anteriorly to enter the posterior edge of the
inferior oblique muscle, just as the inferior oblique muscle crosses under the inferior rectus muscle.

Trigeminal Nerve
The trigeminal nerve (CN V), as the name implies, has three divisions: ophthalmic, maxillary, and mandibular.
The trigeminal nerve is the major sensory nerve of the eyelids and face. It arises on the side of the pons from
three roots: sensory, motor, and mesencephalic. All roots meet at the semilunar or gasserian ganglion, which sits
in a notch on the upper border of the petrous bone. The three divisions of the trigeminal nerve then proceed
forward from the ganglion. Sensory supply to the eyelids (Fig. 5.39) is exclusively from the first two divisions,
which in the middle cranial fossa pierce the dura to enter the cavernous sinus. The third or mandibular division is
mainly motor for the muscles of mastication. Additionally, sensory fibers from the mandibular division give
sensation to the jaw and to the lower lip.
Figure 5.39. Sensory innervation. Sensation to the upper lids is provided by the first division of cranial nerve V,
whereas the lower lid is by the second division.

The first or ophthalmic division (CN V1) of the trigeminal nerve runs forward in the middle cranial fossa to enter
the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus. It then enters the orbit through the supraorbital foramen, where it
subdivides into three branches: the lacrimal, the frontal, and the nasociliary nerves. The lacrimal nerve enters
the orbit above the annulus of Zinn. The lacrimal nerve gives sensory innervation to the lacrimal gland, the
lateral aspects of the eyelid, and the lateral forehead. It courses anteriorly in the orbit along the lateral orbital wall
between the superior rectus muscle and the lateral rectus muscle to enter the posterior aspect of the lacrimal
gland.52 Here it divides into a superior and inferior division; the superior division sends sensory fibers to the
lacrimal gland and skin as the lateral palpebral nerve. The inferior division also innervates the gland and
anastomoses with the fibers from the zygomaticotemporal branch of the maxillary division of CN V2, which carries
parasympathetic secretory fibers to the lacrimal gland from CN VII.47
The frontal nerve also enters the orbit above the annulus of Zinn. It is the largest subdivision of the ophthalmic
nerve and courses anteriorly in the orbit superior to the levator muscle and inferior to the periosteum of the orbit
to terminate as two branches: the supraorbital nerve and the supratrochlear nerve. The supraorbital nerve
leaves the orbit through the supraorbital foramen or supraorbital notch to innervate the skin of the upper eyelid,
forehead, and scalp. The supratrochlear nerve passes above the trochlea and emerges at the superior nasal
aspect of the orbit through an opening in the orbital septum. It gives sensory innervation to the medial
commissure, the lacrimal drainage structures, the skin of the root of the nose, and the middle of the
forehead.55,56,57 The supratrochlear nerve also sends an anastomotic branch to the infratrochlear twig of the
nasociliary nerve.
The nasociliary nerve enters the orbit laterally within the annulus of Zinn. It passes over the optic nerve below
the superior rectus muscle to run along the medial wall of the orbit between the superior oblique muscle and the
medial rectus muscle. It then gives off several branches: (i) the long sensory root of the ciliary ganglion; (ii) the
long ciliary nerves, which pass anteriorly into the suprachoroidal space to supply sensory fibers to the iris, ciliary
body, and cornea; (iii) the infratrochlear nerve, which is sensory to the medial canthus, conjunctiva, lacrimal sac,
canaliculi, and caruncle; and (iv) the posterior ethmoidal nerve, which is sensory to the ethmoidal air cells and
sphenoid sinus.14,56 Clinically, patients with herpes zoster ophthalmicus who have skin lesions and associated
keratouveitis (Hutchinson sign) have involvement of the nasociliary subdivision of CN V1 (Fig. 5.40)

Figure 5.40. Herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Demonstrating distribution of the ophthalmic division of cranial nerve V
(V1).

The second or maxillary division (CN V2) proceeds forward from the gasserian ganglion to enter the most inferior
aspect of the cavernous sinus. From here, it leaves the middle cranial fossa through the foramen rotundum and
crosses the pterygopalatine (sphenomaxillary or sphenopalatine) fossa. It enters the orbit through the inferior
orbital fissure, where it becomes the infraorbital nerve. After passing through the infraorbital canal in the orbital
floor, it emerges through the infraorbital foramen 4 to 8 mm below the infraorbital rim. It innervates the skin and
conjunctiva of the lower eyelid, the ala of the nose, the superior lip, and the medial and lateral canthi.47,55,56
Clinically, this nerve can be involved in orbital floor fractures.
Before its entrance into the infraorbital canal, the maxillary nerve gives off a branch known as the zygomatic
nerve. The zygomatic nerve has two subdivisions: the zygomaticotemporal nerve, which communicates with the
lacrimal nerve, and the zygomaticofacial nerve, which gives sensation to the cheek.

Facial Nerve
The facial nerve (CN VII) emerges ventrally from the brainstem at the pons-medullary junction near the
cerebellum. The facial nerve contains both motor and parasympathetic secretomotor elements. The nerve enters
the temporal bone at the internal auditory meatus with the sensory intermedius nerve and the acoustic nerve (CN
VIII). CN VII nerve fibers reach the geniculate ganglion, where they take one of two pathways. One pathway is
that of the motor fibers. They exit the facial canal of the temporal bone to emerge from the stylomastoid foramen
and pass anteriorly through the parotid gland. Within the gland, the nerve divides into five branches (Fig. 5.41):
temporal, zygomatic, buccal, mandibular, and cervical. These serve as the muscles of facial expression. The
orbicularis oculi muscle and the procerus and corrugator muscles are served by the temporal, zygomatic, and
buccal divisions of the facial nerve.36,54
Figure 5.41. In this cadaver, the branches of cranial nerve VII to the muscles of facial expression are seen
against the probe. The main trunk is seen at the tip of the pointer.

The other pathway is that of the parasympathetic secretomotor fibers. Preganglionic parasympathetic sensory
fibers of the facial nerve pass through the geniculate ganglion without synapse and course into the middle
cranial fossa as the great superficial petrosal nerve. They join with the great deep petrosal sympathetic nerve
from the internal carotid plexus to form the vidian nerve. Fibers then pass into the sphenopalatine
(pterygopalatine) ganglion and synapse. Postganglionic parasympathetic fibers are sent with the
zygomaticotemporal (CN V2) and the lacrimal nerve (CN V1) to give parasympathetic secretory function to the
lacrimal gland.

Sympathetic Supply to the Eyelids

The sympathetic supply to the superior and inferior tarsal muscles is controversial.58,59 Sympathetic nerves to
the orbit provide vasoconstriction, smooth muscle function, hidrosis, pupillary dilation, and pilomotor and sweat
gland function of the skin of the face. The sympathetic nerves arise from the carotid plexus and enter the
cavernous sinus sheathing the intracavernous carotid artery. Within the cavernous sinus, sympathetic fibers join
the nerve branches and arteries entering the orbit. Sympathetic innervation may reach the tarsal muscles
through a combination of roots: with the (i) levator muscle, (ii) marginal vascular arcades, (iii) perivascular plexus
of arterioles of muscles, (iv) motor nerves of the ocular motor muscles, or (v) sensory nerves.
Clinically, interruption of the sympathetic nerve fibers may result in Horner syndrome, with vascular dilation,
ptosis, anhidrosis, miosis, and heterochromia.

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