The prominence that causes your cheekbones to “stick out” is primarily due to the underlying structure of the zygomatic bones, also known as the malar bones. These bones are situated on the upper and outer part of the face, forming the bony projection of the cheek and contributing to the outer wall of the eye socket. The degree to which these bones are defined results from a complex interplay between the fixed skeletal architecture you inherit and the dynamic changes in the surrounding soft tissues.
The Zygomatic Bone Structure
The zygomatic bone is a structural component of the midface. It articulates with the temporal bone to form the zygomatic arch, the bony ridge extending toward your ear. The shape and projection of this bone determine the fixed contour of your cheek. Some people possess a structure that naturally projects further outward or upward, creating a higher, more defined cheek profile.
The bone’s anatomical position and angle are key to the perception of prominence. It connects to the frontal bone near the eye socket, the maxilla (upper jawbone), and the temporal bone, providing the foundation for facial width and structure. Since the bone is rigid and does not change shape in adulthood, its size and forward projection establish the baseline for cheekbone definition.
The Role of Genetics and Ethnicity
The size, projection, and angle of your zygomatic bones are largely predetermined by your inherited genetic blueprint. Facial bone structure is considered a polygenic trait, meaning that multiple genes interact to dictate the final form of your cheekbones. If close family members have pronounced cheekbones, there is a strong probability that you will inherit a similar underlying structure.
Genetic variation accounts for the differences in cheekbone prominence observed across various populations globally. For instance, individuals with ancestry from certain Native American, East Asian, and African populations often exhibit a structure with a greater forward or lateral projection of the zygomatic arch. In contrast, other populations, such as some of European descent, may exhibit less forward projection, resulting in cheekbones that are less immediately noticeable. These differences reflect the wide range of normal human facial morphology shaped by ancestral traits.
How Weight and Age Influence Appearance
While the skeletal structure remains fixed, the appearance of your cheekbones is highly dynamic and significantly influenced by the soft tissues that cover them, particularly facial fat and skin quality. Weight loss can lead to a decrease in subcutaneous facial fat, causing the underlying zygomatic bone and arch to become more visible. Conversely, weight gain can obscure the bone structure because the facial fat pads increase in size, resulting in a fuller face that makes the cheekbones appear less defined.
Aging also contributes to changes in cheekbone visibility. Over time, the face naturally loses collagen and elastin, reducing skin elasticity. The malar fat pad, which rests over the cheekbone, loses volume and shifts downward. This volume loss in the midface can create hollowing beneath the eyes, making the bony ridge appear more prominent against the sunken tissue. Furthermore, bone density can decrease with age (bone resorption), subtly altering skeletal support.