What Are Deep Set Eyes?
Deep set eyes are a unique and often striking anatomical feature, primarily determined by a person's genetic makeup. As the name suggests, the eyes are positioned deeper within the eye sockets, creating a recessed or sunken appearance. This positioning makes the brow bone and forehead appear more prominent, often casting a natural shadow over the eyes. While the aesthetic is the most noticeable characteristic, deep set eyes are simply a normal variation in facial structure and are not related to vision quality.
The Visual Cues for Identifying Deep Set Eyes
Identifying deep set eyes is often a straightforward process that involves examining a person’s facial profile and the features surrounding the eye area. Here are the primary visual cues to look for:
- Recessed Eye Position: The most defining characteristic is how the eye itself sits relative to the brow bone. Viewed from a side profile, a person with deep set eyes will have their eyes positioned noticeably further back in the skull.
- Prominent Brow Bone: As a direct result of the eyes sitting deeper, the brow bone and forehead will appear more pronounced and project outward over the eyes.
- Natural Shadowing: The prominent brow bone casts a natural shadow over the upper eyelid, which can sometimes make the eye area appear darker or more sunken. This is often the case even in good lighting and can be more noticeable with overhead light.
- Visible Eyelid Crease: While the upper eyelid might appear smaller, a person with deep set eyes often has a very defined and deep eyelid crease.
- Reduced Visible Eyelid Space: The space between the eyelid crease and the eyebrow is typically smaller or shorter compared to other eye shapes.
Self-Assessment: How to Check Your Own Eyes
If you want to determine your own eye shape, here is a simple step-by-step guide:
- Gather your tools: Find a mirror and ensure you are in a well-lit area, ideally with natural light.
- Relax your expression: Maintain a neutral expression. Smiling, frowning, or furrowing your brows can alter your eye shape temporarily.
- Check your profile: Turn your head to the side at a 3/4 angle and observe your profile in the mirror. Does your brow bone seem to stick out further than your eye? This is a strong indicator of deep set eyes.
- Observe your brow shadow: Stand under an overhead light source and hold the mirror at eye level. If your prominent brow bone creates a strong shadow over your eye, similar to an awning over a window, you likely have deep set eyes.
- Examine your eyelid crease: While looking straight ahead, examine the space between your lash line and your eyelid crease. If the visible space on your upper eyelid is small, this suggests a deeper-set eye.
Deep Set vs. Other Eye Shapes
To better understand how deep set eyes differ, it helps to compare them to other common eye shapes, such as protruding and hooded eyes. The key distinction lies in how the eye is positioned within the socket.
| Feature | Deep Set Eyes | Protruding Eyes | Hooded Eyes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eye Position | Eyes are set further back into the skull. | Eyes project outward from the socket. | Eye position is not recessed or prominent, but skin folds over the lid. |
| Brow Bone | Appears prominent and casts a shadow over the eyes. | Less defined or prominent brow bone relative to the eye. | Excess skin hangs down from the brow bone, hiding the crease. |
| Eyelid Crease | Often a deep, defined crease. | A visible crease, and often whites are visible above or below the iris. | Crease is partially or completely hidden by a fold of skin. |
| Upper Eyelid | Appears smaller or shorter due to the eye's recessed position. | Appears larger and more visible. | Mostly or entirely covered by the extra fold of skin. |
Causes of Deep Set Eyes and Related Factors
For most people, having deep set eyes is a genetic trait inherited from their parents, and it is a normal part of their facial bone structure. However, some factors can influence or exaggerate the appearance of deep set eyes over time:
- Aging: The natural aging process can cause the eyes to appear more deep set. As we get older, we lose collagen, fat, and bone density in the orbital area, which can increase the hollowed or sunken look.
- Health Conditions: In rare cases, certain medical conditions or syndromes can be associated with deep set eyes as part of a larger set of symptoms. Conditions like SHORT syndrome or Sanjad-Sakati syndrome are genetic disorders that can manifest with deep set eyes. Severe dehydration or weight loss can also cause the eyes to temporarily appear more sunken due to volume loss.
- Genetics: If other family members have deep set eyes, it is highly likely the trait is inherited.
Cosmetic and Health Considerations
While deep set eyes are not a health concern, they do have some cosmetic implications. The natural shadowing can sometimes give a tired appearance, and dark circles or under-eye bags may be more prominent.
- Makeup: To make deep set eyes appear brighter and more open, makeup artists often recommend using lighter, shimmery eyeshadows on the lid and highlighting the inner corner. A flesh-toned eyeliner on the lower waterline can also help.
- Lifestyle: Proper rest is crucial, as deep set eyes may show signs of fatigue more readily than other eye shapes. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet can also help with skin volume around the eyes.
- Aesthetic Treatments: For those concerned about a tired or sunken appearance exacerbated by aging, cosmetic procedures like dermal fillers can be used to add volume around the eyes.
Conclusion
Identifying deep set eyes is a simple process of observing how the eyes are positioned relative to the brow bone. A prominent brow, recessed eye position, and natural shadowing are key indicators. As a normal genetic variation, this eye shape can contribute to a person's unique and striking appearance. Understanding the characteristics of deep set eyes can help in personalizing makeup techniques to enhance this feature. If you have concerns about the sudden appearance of sunken eyes, consult with a healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical issues.
To learn more about eye anatomy and health, explore resources from authoritative sources like the Cleveland Clinic.
