Elevates the superior (upper) eyelid. Originates from the lesser wing of the sphenoid, just superior to the optic foramen, and attaches to the tarsal plate of the eyelid. Innervated by the oculomotor n. (CN III).
Damage to the nerve may cause ptosis (drooping of the eyelid).
Lateral view of the right orbit.
9 is the levator palpebrae superioris,
10 is the tarsal plate of the upper eyelid.