Cheekbones are a prominent feature of the human face, shaping its overall appearance. Understanding their position and purpose helps explain their significance beyond just aesthetics.
Anatomy and Location
Cheekbones are scientifically known as the zygomatic bones. These paired, irregular bones are situated on the upper and outer parts of the face. You can feel them as the bony prominence just below each eye, extending towards the ears and temples. Each zygomatic bone connects with several other facial bones, such as those of the forehead, upper jaw, and side of the head.
The zygomatic arch is a prominent part of the cheekbone structure. This arch is formed by processes of the zygomatic and temporal bones, creating a horizontal bar of bone that runs along the side of the head, slightly in front of the ear. This arch is a landmark that gives the mid-face its shape and can be felt as a ridge extending from the lower eye socket towards the upper ear.
Role in Facial Structure and Function
The zygomatic bones provide structural support to the mid-face, contributing to the overall contour of the facial skeleton. They help maintain the shape and volume of the cheeks, preventing them from appearing sunken. The cheekbones also form part of the lateral walls and floor of the eye sockets, helping to protect the delicate structures of the eyes.
Beyond structural support, these bones serve as attachment points for several muscles involved in facial expressions and chewing. For instance, the masseter muscle, used for chewing, originates from the zygomatic arch. Other muscles, like the zygomaticus major and minor, used for smiling, also attach to the zygomatic bone. This integration allows for a wide range of facial movements and aids eating.
Cheekbones and Facial Prominence
The prominence of an individual’s cheekbones contributes to the overall shape and aesthetics of their face. The extent to which these bones protrude can vary widely among people. This variation is largely influenced by genetics and individual bone structure.
As people age, changes in facial fat and bone density can also affect how noticeable their cheekbones appear. For example, a reduction in facial fat can make the cheekbones seem more defined. The natural contour provided by the zygomatic bones plays a role in facial symmetry and can define the width of the midface.