The zygomatic bone, commonly recognized as the cheekbone, stands as a prominent feature of the human face. It significantly contributes to both facial structure and overall appearance. This bone plays a role in protecting delicate facial organs and serves as an anchor for muscles involved in daily functions.
Anatomy and Location
The zygomatic bone is a paired, irregularly shaped bone located on each side of the face. It constitutes the bony prominence found just below the outer side of the eye socket. This bone articulates, or connects, with four other skull bones: the frontal bone (forehead), the maxilla (upper jaw), the temporal bone (side of the skull), and the sphenoid bone (an internal skull bone).
These connections are important for facial integrity. For instance, the temporal process of the zygomatic bone extends backward to meet the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, together forming the zygomatic arch. This arch creates a bridge-like structure in front of the ear. The zygomatic bone also features three surfaces—lateral, posteromedial, and orbital—each contributing to its complex structure.
Functions of the Zygomatic Bone
One primary function involves safeguarding the eye, as it forms part of the orbital cavity, or eye socket. This bony framework helps shield the eye from external impacts and trauma. Its robust structure helps dissipate forces across the midface, contributing to the overall strength and stability of this region.
The zygomatic bone also serves as an attachment point for various muscles that enable essential facial movements. Muscles involved in chewing, such as the masseter, originate from the zygomatic arch, enabling powerful biting. Additionally, muscles responsible for facial expressions, like the zygomaticus major and minor, attach to this bone, enabling smiling. The zygomatic bone’s prominence also significantly defines the contours and overall shape of the human face.
Common Zygomatic Bone Injuries and Conditions
Despite its robust nature, the zygomatic bone’s exposed position makes it susceptible to injury, with fractures being common. Zygomatic fractures, often referred to as “tripod fractures” or zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures, involve breaks in three areas: the zygomatic arch, the inferior orbital rim, and the lateral orbital wall. These injuries result from high-impact trauma, such as sports accidents, falls, or motor vehicle collisions.
Symptoms of a zygomatic fracture can include pain, swelling around the cheek and eye, and numbness in the upper lip, cheek, and lower eyelid. Patients may also experience vision changes, such as double vision, difficulty opening their mouth (trismus), or a noticeable flattening of the cheek prominence. A visible “step deformity” along the orbital rim may indicate a fracture.
Aesthetic and Surgical Significance
Beyond its anatomical and functional roles, the zygomatic bone holds significant importance in facial aesthetics. Its size and projection contribute substantially to facial symmetry and the overall contour of the mid-face. Well-defined cheekbones are often associated with beauty and youthfulness, influencing the character and balance of a person’s face. Variations in its shape and prominence can create diverse facial appearances.
The zygomatic bone is frequently involved in various surgical procedures, both reconstructive and cosmetic. Reconstructive surgery may be necessary to correct deformities or restore facial contour following trauma. For aesthetic purposes, procedures like cheek augmentation can enhance the bone’s prominence, while zygoma reduction surgery can decrease its size for a softer or narrower facial appearance. These modifications alter facial aesthetics, emphasizing the bone’s role in defining an individual’s look.