Karl Langer

Karl Langer (1819–1887) was an Austrian anatomist and dermatologist who is best known for his work in the field of anatomy and dermatology. He is particularly recognized for his discovery of the Langer's lines, which are topographical lines drawn on a map of the human body.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Karl Langer was born in 1819 in Vienna, Austria. He studied medicine at the University of Vienna, where he developed a keen interest in the field of anatomy.

Career[edit | edit source]

After completing his studies, Langer began his career as an assistant at the Institute of Anatomy in Vienna. He later became a professor of anatomy at the same institute. His work primarily focused on the study of the human skin and its underlying structures.

Langer's Lines[edit | edit source]

Langer is most well-known for his discovery of the Langer's lines. These are lines on the human body that represent the natural orientation of collagen fibers in the dermis. They are of significant importance in surgical procedures, particularly in plastic surgery, as incisions made along these lines result in less scarring.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Langer's work has had a profound impact on the field of dermatology and plastic surgery. His discovery of the Langer's lines has greatly improved the outcomes of surgical procedures, reducing scarring and improving healing times.