Morphometric Parameters of the Orbicularis Oculi Muscle and Their Clinical Implications in Oculoplastic Surgery at Cornea Eye Institute, Lagos

The orbicularis oculi muscle is a circumferential periorbital muscle responsible for eyelid closure and protection of the globe. Detailed knowledge of its morphometric parameters is essential for procedures including blepharoplasty, ptosis repair, facial nerve decompression, and reconstruction of eyelid defects following trauma or tumour excision. Although oculoplastic surgical volumes are increasing in Nigeria, anatomical reference data specific to West African patients are lacking. This study aims to document the morphometric parameters of the orbicularis oculi muscle, including the dimensions of its orbital and palpebral parts, among adult patients undergoing periorbital surgery at Cornea Eye Institute, Lagos. Intraoperative measurements and photographic documentation will be performed with patient consent, and data collected from cadaveric specimens at the Lagos State University anatomy laboratory. Findings will be correlated with age and sex. The study expects to provide surgeons with normative morphometric data that will improve the planning and execution of periorbital procedures for Nigerian patients, contributing to reduced revision rates and improved aesthetic outcomes in oculoplastic surgery practice.

Keywords: orbicularis oculi, oculoplastic surgery, periorbital anatomy, Lagos, muscle morphometry