The cheekbones are a prominent feature of the human face, contributing significantly to its overall shape and appearance. They create definition and contour, influencing how light and shadow play across the mid-face. While often recognized for their aesthetic impact, these bones also fulfill important biological roles in facial structure.
Locating Your Cheekbone
The bone commonly called the cheekbone is anatomically known as the zygomatic bone, also called the zygoma or malar bone. This paired bone is situated at the upper and lateral part of the face, just below each eye. It extends outward and backward towards the ear, forming a noticeable prominence.
To locate your cheekbone, place your fingertips gently on your face directly beneath the outer corner of your eye. Slowly move your fingers downward and slightly outward, feeling for a hard, bony ridge. This firm structure is the front part of your zygomatic bone.
Continue tracing this bony ridge backward along the side of your face, moving towards your ear. You will feel it extend horizontally, connecting with another bone to form the zygomatic arch. This arch defines the width of the face.
The Structure and Purpose of the Cheekbone
The zygomatic bone is a robust part of the skull, forming a key connection point for several other facial bones, including the frontal bone (forehead), maxillary bone (upper jaw), and temporal bone (side of the head). Its primary function is to provide structural support for the mid-face, helping to maintain its volume and contour.
The cheekbone also forms a significant portion of the orbital rim, the bony structure surrounding and protecting the eye. It contributes to the lower and outer parts of the eye socket, safeguarding the eye. The zygomatic bone also serves as an attachment site for several facial muscles, including the zygomaticus major and minor, involved in facial expressions like smiling.
Why Cheekbones Vary
The prominence and shape of cheekbones differ significantly among individuals due to a combination of factors. Genetic predispositions play a substantial role, as inherited traits determine the underlying bone structure of the face, dictating the size, shape, and positioning of facial features.
Age-related changes also influence how cheekbones appear over time. As people age, there can be a natural reduction in bone density in certain facial areas, including the cheeks. Additionally, the fat pads in the face, which provide volume, can diminish and shift downward, making the cheekbones either appear more defined or, in some cases, more sunken.
Lifestyle and environmental factors also contribute to variations. Significant weight fluctuations can alter cheekbone visibility; reduced facial fat may make them appear more prominent, while increased facial fat can obscure their definition. These elements collectively shape the unique appearance of each person’s cheekbones.