Øyelokkens

Øyelokkene, commonly referred to in English as the eyelids, are the two movable folds of skin that protect the eyes. In Norwegian anatomy, the possessive form øyelokkens is used to indicate something belonging to the eyelids. The primary functions are to shield the eye from injury, regulate the amount of light entering the pupil, and assist in spreading the tear film for lubrication and clarity.

Anatomically, each eyelid consists of skin, a connective-tissue framework called the tarsal plate, and two muscles: the levator palpebrae superioris (which raises the upper lid) and the orbicularis oculi (which closes the lid). The lids are lined by the palpebral conjunctiva on the inner surface. Specialized glands along the lid margin include the Meibomian (tarsal) glands, which secrete an oily layer of the tear film, and small glands that contribute to tear production and distribution. Eyelashes and associated follicles provide a physical barrier and a sensory reflex for protective blinking.

Functionally, blinking distributes tears across the ocular surface, removes debris, and helps maintain a stable tear film. The eyelids also help blink reflexes that protect the eye from bright light and foreign objects. Disruptions in lid function or lid margin health can contribute to conditions such as blepharitis, styes (hordeola), chalazia, ptosis, ectropion, or entropion, each affecting comfort and visual clarity.

Development and clinical relevance center on the lids’ mobility, nerve control (including the facial nerve and oculomotor pathways), and their integral role in ocular surface health, cosmetic appearance, and protection.