Supra-orbital margin

Medically Reviewed by Anatomy Team

The supra-orbital margin, also known as the supraorbital rim or brow ridge, is a bony structure located on the forehead above the eye sockets. It is a key feature of the human skull, providing both functional and aesthetic importance.

Structure

The supra-orbital margin is made up of the frontal bone, which is a large bone located at the front of the skull. It extends from the eyebrows to the top of the skull and forms the bony structure of the forehead, nasal bones, and orbital sockets.

It is a raised, curved structure that forms the upper border of the eye socket. It is composed of two separate bones: the frontal bone and the supraorbital bone. The frontal bone is a large, curved bone that extends from the eyebrows to the top of the skull and forms the bony structure of the forehead, nasal bones, and orbital sockets. The supraorbital bone is a smaller bone located above the orbital socket and is responsible for the raised, curved structure of the supra-orbital margin.

Location

The supra-orbital margin is located on the forehead above the eye sockets. It extends from the eyebrows to the top of the skull and forms the upper border of the orbital sockets.

Function

The supra-orbital margin has several important functions in the human body. One of its main functions is to provide structural support for the forehead and protect the brain from injury. It also plays a role in the formation of facial expressions and can affect the appearance of the face.

In addition to its structural and aesthetic functions, the supra-orbital margin also serves as a point of attachment for several muscles and ligaments. These muscles and ligaments are responsible for moving the eyebrows and upper eyelids, allowing us to express a wide range of emotions and to protect our eyes from bright light and foreign objects.

Clinical significance

There are several clinical conditions that can affect the supra-orbital margin. One common condition is a brow lift, which is a surgical procedure that aims to lift and tighten the skin of the forehead and eyebrows to give a more youthful and refreshed appearance. This procedure is often performed on individuals with sagging or drooping eyebrows, which can cause a tired or angry appearance.

Another common condition that can affect the supra-orbital margin is a fracture of the frontal bone. This type of injury can occur as a result of a blow to the head or a fall. A fracture of the frontal bone can cause symptoms such as bruising, swelling, and pain in the forehead. It may also cause changes in the appearance of the forehead, such as a dent or bulge.

In rare cases, a tumor may develop on the supra-orbital margin. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, and changes in the appearance of the forehead.

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