Surface of the Female Medial Palpebral Commissure

Description

Surface anatomy of the female medial palpebral commissure (medial canthus) is rendered with attention to the junction of the upper and lower eyelids at the medial orbital rim. The lacus lacrimalis occupies the medial palpebral fissure, bordered by the upper and lower lacrimal papillae with their puncta positioned just lateral to the caruncula lacrimalis and the plica semilunaris. Medially, the canthal skin overlies the anterior lacrimal crest region and the medial palpebral ligament, while the lid margins converge toward the canthal angle in a slightly oblique superior to inferior direction. Small surface vessels and periocular skin folds help orient right versus left and define the inner canthal contour. Clinically, the medial canthus is where tear drainage begins, so the relationship of the puncta to the caruncle and lid margin matters when teaching lacrimal irrigation, punctal dilation, and punctoplasty. It is also the key external landmark for canaliculitis, punctal stenosis, and nasolacrimal duct obstruction presenting with epiphora, and for dacryocystitis where swelling and tenderness localize just inferomedial to the canthus over the lacrimal sac. Trauma and reconstructive planning rely on this region too, because malposition of the medial canthal tendon can produce telecanthus and disrupt eyelid-globe apposition. Small anatomy, big consequences. Use this illustration in ophthalmology and otolaryngology teaching modules on lacrimal outflow anatomy, in facial plastics references covering medial canthopexy or laceration repair involving the canaliculi, and in patient-facing materials explaining evaluation of tearing and medial canthal infections. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.