Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 3, 2026

06:57
Puncture-Induced Iris Neovascularization as a Mouse Model of Rubeosis Iridis
Published on: March 8, 2018
9.3K
Effect of iris show on perceived upper eyelid height
Jacob A Evans1, Thomas J E Clark2, Kai Wang3
1Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology. Journal Canadien D'Ophtalmologie
|October 21, 2018
Summary
Visible iris show affects perceived eyelid height, particularly in lighter irises. Less iris show makes eyelids appear droopier, suggesting potential nonsurgical treatments for blepharoptosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Perceptual Science
Background:
- Perception of upper eyelid height is crucial in diagnosing and treating conditions like blepharoptosis.
- The concept of "iris show" (visible iris tissue) has not been fully evaluated for its impact on perceived eyelid height.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and define "iris show."
- To assess how iris show influences the perception of upper eyelid height.
- To explore nonsurgical treatment options for mild blepharoptosis.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 390 participants using photographs with varying iris colors and pupil sizes but identical upper eyelid marginal reflex distance (MRD1).
- Participants identified the "droopier" eyelid or indicated if heights were the same.
- Statistical analyses included t-tests.
Main Results:
- In blue and green irises, reduced iris show was significantly associated with the perception of a more ptotic eyelid (p = 0.002 and 0.03).
- In dark brown irises, perceived eyelid height remained consistent despite variations in iris show (p = 0.002).
Conclusions:
- Reduced iris show leads to a perceived lowering of the upper eyelid in individuals with light-colored irises.
- This effect is less pronounced in darker irises.
- Topical apraclonidine may be a viable nonsurgical treatment for mild blepharoptosis, especially in light-eyed individuals, by increasing iris show and enhancing perceived eyelid elevation.
Related Concept Videos
Perceiving Loudness, Pitch, and Location
987
The human brain perceives pitch through two primary mechanisms reflected in place theory and frequency theory. Each mechanism describes how sound waves are interpreted as specific pitches by the brain, offering insights into the intricate processes of auditory perception.
Place theory, or place coding, suggests that different pitches are heard because various sound waves activate specific locations along the cochlea's basilar membrane. The brain determines the pitch of a sound by...
Place theory, or place coding, suggests that different pitches are heard because various sound waves activate specific locations along the cochlea's basilar membrane. The brain determines the pitch of a sound by...
987
Arteries of the Upper Limbs
2.3K
The subclavian artery transitions into the axillary artery as it exits the chest and enters the axillary region. This artery is critical for supplying blood to the shoulder area, including the head of the humerus, through the humeral circumflex arteries. As the vessel continues into the upper arm or brachium, it becomes the brachial artery. This artery plays a key role in vascularizing the brachial region and bifurcates at the elbow into several branches. These branches include the deep...
2.3K
Veins of Upper Limbs
4.2K
The human circulatory system, a marvel of biological engineering, is a complex network of vessels that transport blood throughout the body. Among these, the veins responsible for carrying blood from the upper limbs are divided into two categories: deep and superficial.
The deep venous system is primarily composed of the ulnar and radial veins. The ulnar vein, which drains the fingers through the superficial palmar venous arches, and the radial vein, which serves the palms via the deep palmar...
The deep venous system is primarily composed of the ulnar and radial veins. The ulnar vein, which drains the fingers through the superficial palmar venous arches, and the radial vein, which serves the palms via the deep palmar...
4.2K
Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus
7.2K
The upper limb consists of the arm, forearm, wrist, and hand bones. The humerus is the single bone of the upper arm region. Proximally, it has a large, spherical, smooth head that articulates with the glenoid cavity of the scapula to form the glenohumeral or shoulder joint. The margin of the head is the anatomical neck, a residual epiphyseal plate. Laterally it extends to form bony projections called the greater tubercle and the lesser tubercle. Next to the tubercles is the surgical neck, a...
7.2K
Upper Respiratory Drugs: Decongestants
911
Decongestants are a class of medications used primarily to alleviate nasal congestion, a common symptom resulting from allergies, colds, sinusitis, and other upper respiratory tract infections. These drugs work by activating α-adrenergic receptors, constricting small blood vessels in the nasal membranes. This action results in the opening of clogged nasal passages, thereby facilitating sinus drainage and relieving congestion.
Most decongestants are readily available over-the-counter in...
Most decongestants are readily available over-the-counter in...
911
Upper GI Series: Barium Swallow
1.7K
The Barium Swallow Study, or a Barium Esophagogram, is a diagnostic imaging method used to visualize the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. It employs barium sulfate, a radiopaque contrast material, to provide clear images of the upper digestive system, helping to identify abnormalities, diseases, or structural issues.
Purpose and Procedure
Patients undergoing this procedure ingest a liquid containing barium sulfate with a chalky...
Purpose and Procedure
Patients undergoing this procedure ingest a liquid containing barium sulfate with a chalky...
1.7K

