The perception of having “big cheekbones” refers to the prominence of the bony structure that frames the upper face. These structures are technically known as the zygomatic bones, or malar bones, which form the skeletal prominence of the cheek and contribute to the lower and outer parts of the eye socket. The appearance of striking cheekbones is a result of both the underlying bone structure and the soft tissues that cover it. While soft tissue changes can alter their visibility throughout a lifetime, the fundamental shape and size are determined by factors established before birth.
The Role of Genetics and Ancestry
The fundamental size, shape, and position of the cheekbones are primarily dictated by genetics, a highly heritable trait passed down from parents. Facial bone structure is considered polygenic, meaning multiple genes work in a complex interplay to determine the final facial morphology. Specific gene families are involved in regulating the development and growth of craniofacial bones during embryonic stages.
Genetic inheritance explains why cheekbone prominence often runs in families. This genetic programming establishes the potential for a wide or forward-projecting facial structure. The expression of these genes influences bone growth from fetal development through adolescence, setting the stage for the adult facial contour.
Ancestry also plays a significant role in determining population-specific facial features, which have evolved over millennia due to natural selection and genetic drift. Certain populations, including those of East Asian, Indigenous American, or Eastern European descent, frequently exhibit zygomatic arches that are relatively wider or project farther forward. This increased anterior projection is one of the main components contributing to the perception of “high” or prominent cheekbones.
These variations can sometimes be traced to evolutionary adaptations. However, the genetic differences are subtle, and there is significant overlap in measurements among different groups.
Anatomy of Facial Prominence
The physical prominence of the cheek is defined by the zygomatic bone, which is a paired, irregular bone. The perception of a “big” cheekbone is not solely about the bone’s overall size but rather its three-dimensional position in the skull. The two main components influencing prominence are the malar bone itself and the zygomatic arch.
The zygomatic arch is a slender bridge of bone that extends posteriorly from the cheekbone to the side of the head, connecting with a process of the temporal bone. The degree of lateral projection, or how far the zygomatic arch extends outward, contributes significantly to facial breadth and the visual width of the mid-face. A highly arched or wide zygomatic arch translates to a broader, more defined upper cheek area.
Anterior projection is an equally important factor, defining how far forward the malar bone juts out from the face. When the body of the zygomatic bone is positioned more anteriorly, it creates a sharper, more defined cheek contour, often described as “high cheekbones.” This skeletal structure provides a distinct shelf for the soft tissues of the mid-face to rest upon, enhancing the visual effect of prominence.
Lifestyle Factors That Influence Appearance
While the skeletal foundation is fixed by genetics, the visual prominence of the cheekbones is influenced by the surrounding soft tissues. The distribution and volume of facial adipose tissue, or fat, play a major role in masking or revealing the underlying bone structure. A reduction in overall body weight leads to a loss of fat in the face, including the supportive fat pads in the cheeks.
As facial fat diminishes, the contours of the zygomatic bones and the jawline become more visible, giving a person a more sculpted or defined look. Conversely, weight gain can increase facial volume, which softens the angles of the face and can make even structurally prominent cheekbones appear less distinct.
Muscle mass is another factor, specifically the masseter muscle, which attaches near the zygomatic arch. Enlargement of the masseter muscle, a condition called hypertrophy, can sometimes widen the lower face and slightly flatten the lower cheek area. A smaller, more slender masseter can enhance the contrast between the lower jaw and the cheekbone above it.
Aging also alters the appearance of prominence through a process called bone resorption, where the bones of the face gradually shrink and recede. This bone loss, combined with the loss of collagen and the descent and reduction of subcutaneous fat pads, changes the facial scaffolding. The cheekbones can sometimes appear more pronounced due to the hollowing of the cheeks and temples caused by fat loss, or they may appear flatter as the bone itself recedes.