Levator Palpebrae Superioris (Left) (Musculus levator palpebrae superioris)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The levator palpebrae superioris is an orbital muscle situated in the roof of the orbit directly above the superior rectus. Originating from the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone, its muscular belly expands anteriorly into a broad aponeurosis that inserts into the superior tarsal plate and upper eyelid skin. It elevates the upper eyelid to keep the palpebral fissure open.
Origin & insertion
From the inferior surface of the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone above the optic canal to the anterior surface of the superior tarsal plate and skin of the upper eyelid.
Action
Elevates the upper eyelid, opening and maintaining the palpebral fissure.
Innervation
Superior division of the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III).
Clinical notes
Dysfunction or oculomotor nerve palsy produces complete ptosis; aponeurotic disinsertion causes common age-related involutional blepharoptosis.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Levator Palpebrae Superioris (Left)?
The levator palpebrae superioris is an orbital muscle situated in the roof of the orbit directly above the superior rectus. Originating from the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone, its muscular belly expands anteriorly into a broad aponeurosis that inserts into the superior tarsal plate and upper eyelid skin. It elevates the upper eyelid to keep the palpebral fissure open.
Why is the Levator Palpebrae Superioris (Left) clinically important?
Dysfunction or oculomotor nerve palsy produces complete ptosis; aponeurotic disinsertion causes common age-related involutional blepharoptosis.
Source & license
BodyParts3D, © The Database Center for Life Science licensed under CC Attribution 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). license details