Orbicularis palpebrarum

Orbicularis Oculi

The Orbicularis Oculi is a muscle in the face that closes the eyelids. It is one of the two major components of the eyelids, the other being the tarsal plate. The muscle is also known as the Orbicularis Palpebrarum.

Anatomy

The Orbicularis Oculi is a broad, flat, elliptical muscle that originates from the nasal part of the frontal bone, the frontal process of the maxilla, and the anterior surface and borders of a short fibrous band, the medial palpebral ligament.

The muscle fibers form a series of concentric circles around the eye. The outermost fibers are the strongest. The muscle is divided into three parts: the orbital, the palpebral, and the lacrimal part.

Function

The primary function of the Orbicularis Oculi is to close the eyelids. This action helps to protect the eyes from light and foreign bodies. It also assists in the spreading of tears across the eye.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Orbicularis Oculi can result in lagophthalmos, a condition in which the person is unable to close their eyes. This can lead to serious complications, including corneal ulceration and blindness.

See also

• Facial muscles
• Blepharospasm
• Bell's palsy