title: Eyelid anatomy.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The following anatomic information concerning the complex structure of the eyelids is distilled from gross and histologic study as well as surgical experience.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  Our aim is to familiarize the reader with eyelid anatomy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Appropriate shape, contour, height and mobility of the lids are essential to adequate protection and function of the eyes as well as overall appearance. A thorough understanding of eyelid anatomy is therefore necessary to achieve optimal surgical results. For the purpose of this discussion the eyelids can be divided into the following structural planes: 1) skin and subcutaneous tissue; 2) orbicularis muscle and submuscular fibroadipose layer; 3) orbital septum; 4) preaponeurotic fat; 5) eyelid retractors; and 6) the tarsi and conjunctiva.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-4197.
authors.forename: R A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Dailey
authors.forename: J L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Wobig
mesh_terms: D005143:Eyelids / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D006801:Humans