Analysis of aging-related changes in the lower eyelid tissue structure in Han Chinese women

To analyze aging-related regional changes in the lower eyelid tissue structure of Han Chinese women as data reference and theoretical basis for rejuvenation treatment of lower eyelids.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data of healthy Han Chinese women with a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5-23.9 kg/m² were collected and stratified by age. MRI of the mid-sagittal plane of the eyeball was analyzed. The orbital margin was marked as the coordinate O point while the surface of the zygomatic bone was marked as the coordinate y-axis. The vertical line between the O point and y-axis was marked as the x-axis. The position of each point of the orbicularis oculi muscle contour and the subcutaneous fat tissue contour on the coordinate axis was measured. The thickness and contour morphology of the subcutaneous fat and orbicularis oculi muscle at different positions were calculated according to the coordinate position of each point. Age-related changes in the structure, contour, and position of the subcutaneous tissue in the lower eyelid area were analyzed.

With aging, the thickness of the orbicularis oculi muscle decreased while its width increased. Notably, the radian of the orbicularis oculi muscle in the tarsal portion protruding to the skin increased. The subcutaneous fat of the orbital margin thinned while the subcutaneous fat below the orbital margin thickened with age.

The subcutaneous tissue structure of the lower eyelid region in Han Chinese women showed regular changes during aging, chiefly characterized by the widening and thinning of the orbicularis oculi muscle, and the gradual shifting of the subcutaneous fat to the middle and lower regions.