Structure/Morphology
Anteriorly, the tendon of levator palpebrae superioris broadens and thins to form the levator aponeurosis. This aponeurosis has been described as bilaminar, with superficial and deep laminae.
The fibers of the superficial lamina radiate and pass through the orbicularis oculi muscle to attach to the skin of the upper eyelid. The fibers of the deep lamina attach to the anterior surface of the superior tarsal plate of the upper eyelid. These fibers are accompanied by the smooth muscle fibers of the superior tarsal muscle.
Function
The levator aponeurosis transmits the contractions of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle to elevate the upper eyelid. It works in opposition to the normal pull of gravity and the palpebral part of the orbicularis oculi muscle, which close the eyelids (Anderson and Beard, 1977).
List of Clinical Correlates
- Ptosis
References
Anderson, R. L. and Beard, C. (1977) 'The levator aponeurosis. Attachments and their clinical significance', Arch Ophthalmol, 95(8), pp. 1437-41.
