Lower eyelid

Palpebra inferior

Sensory (eye & ear)SkinHeadLeft and right

View left in 3D View right in 3D

What it is

The smaller, less mobile lower fold of skin, orbicularis muscle, tarsal plate and conjunctiva; its margin lies at the lower edge of the cornea.

Function

Supports the globe, guides tears towards the lower punctum and helps close the eye.

Size

Palpebral fissure between the two lids ~28-30 mm wide and 9-10 mm high.

Clinical note

With age the lower lid can turn out (ectropion, causing watering) or in (entropion, lashes rub the cornea).