The lacrimal nerve is a nerve of the orbital area. It is a branch of the ophthalmic nerve. It supplies sensation to the conjunctiva and upper eyelid. It also carries parasympathetic fibres to the lacrimal gland. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The lacrimal nerve arises from the ophthalmic nerve immediately proximal to the superior orbital fissure. It passes through the superior orbital fissure to enter the orbit. The nerve then travels anteriorly along the lateral orbital wall, along the superior border of the lateral rectus muscle. The lacrimal nerve penetrates the lacrimal gland and orbital septum, terminating as sensory nerves that supply the skin and conjunctiva of the lateral upper eyelid. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2025) Fig 1Couse of the lacrimal nerve within the orbit. Sensory Supply The lacrimal nerve supplies the skin and conjunctiva of the lateral upper eyelid. Parasympathetic Supply The lacrimal nerve carries parasympathetic fibres from the zygomaticotemporal nerve (a branch of the maxillary nerve) to the lacrimal gland. Activation of these fibres stimulates secretory activity within the lacrimal gland. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 2The lacrimal gland is supplied by the lacrimal nerve. Print Article Rate This Article