Oriental eyelids. An anatomic study
M. T. Doxanas and R. L. Anderson
Dissection of the eyelids and sagittal sections of the orbital blocks
identified the anatomic features of the oriental eyelids responsible for
their unique appearance. The basic distinction involves the formation of
the eyelid crease and fold. In the occidental eyelid, the orbital septum
fuses with the levator aponeurosis below the superior tarsal border.
However, in the oriental eyelid, the orbital septum fuses with the levator
aponeurosis below the superior tarsal border. The accompanying
preaponeurotic or orbital fat is allowed to proceed to the anterior tarsal
surface, resulting in a full or thickened eyelid. The inferior extension of
the orbital septum, beyond the superior tarsal border, prevents anterior
aponeurotic fibers from fanning toward the subcutaneous tissues to produce
the normal eyelid crease. Appreciation of the unique anatomic features of
oriental eyelids is important for those persons who evaluate or surgically
explore these eyelids.
