Inside your eyes

Here's a look at the various parts of your eye and how they work together to help you see the world around you. Each part plays an essential role in your eyes' healthy functioning.

Eyelids
Upper and lower eyelids protect the front of your eyeball (orbit) by blocking foreign objects and bright light that can damage your eye. Your eyelids involuntarily open and shut (blink) every few seconds to help protect your eyeball. You can, of course, blink intentionally as well.

With each blink, a tiny bit of tear fluid comes out of a gland near each eye. The lubricant washes away germs, dust, eyelashes or other foreign objects and keeps your eyes from drying.